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FREEZONE COMPANY FORMATION

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Freezone Business Setup in UAE

Setting up a business in one of the UAE’s freezones provides incredible benefits, including 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and a business-friendly environment. Freezones are designed to encourage foreign investment by offering a simplified setup process and favorable regulations. Whether you are starting a trading, service, or industrial business, freezone jurisdictions in the UAE provide a streamlined, cost-effective way to launch your venture.

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What is a Freezone Company in the UAE?

A freezone company is a business entity registered within a special economic zone established by the UAE government to promote foreign investment and international trade. The primary benefit of setting up in a freezone is the ability to own 100% of your business without needing a local partner, as required in mainland setups. Each freezone in the UAE specializes in different industries, offering specific advantages depending on the nature of your business.

 

Some of the key benefits include:

  • 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
  • Zero corporate and personal tax for a specified number of years
  • Full repatriation of profits and capital
  • No customs duties on imports and exports within the freezone
  • Simplified recruitment process with visa services for employees

Freezone Business Setup in UAE

Types of Freezone Licenses in the UAE

Depending on the nature of your business, you can apply for different types of freezone licenses, each designed to support various business activities:
  1. Trading License: Ideal for businesses involved in the import, export, and trading of goods. A trading license allows your company to freely conduct trade within the freezone and internationally.
  2. Service License: If your business provides professional or consulting services, such as marketing, IT, or management consultancy, a service license is the best fit. This license allows you to offer a wide range of services within the freezone and to international clients.
  3. Industrial License: For businesses engaged in manufacturing, production, or industrial activities, an industrial license allows you to set up factories or production units within the freezone with easy access to logistics and supply chains.
  4. E-commerce License: Perfect for businesses conducting online sales and services. The e-commerce license allows you to operate an online business in the freezone while enjoying the region’s strategic location for shipping and distribution.
Not sure which license fits your business? Let us help you choose!

Steps to Setting Up a Freezone Company in the UAE

  1. Choose the Right Freezone: The UAE offers over 40 freezones, each catering to specific industries. Choosing the right freezone that aligns with your business goals is crucial.
  2. Select Your Business Activity and License Type: Depending on the nature of your business, you need to select the appropriate license type – whether it’s a trading, service, or industrial license.
  3. Choose a Company Name: Your business name should comply with the UAE’s naming conventions. The name must be unique and reflect the nature of your business.
  4. Submit Your Application: After selecting your freezone, business activity, and company name, you need to submit your business registration documents to the freezone authority.
  5. Secure Office Space or Facility: Freezones offer various options for office space, including flexi-desks, physical offices, and warehouses. You must lease the appropriate space to complete your business setup.
  6. Obtain Your Business License: Once all the documents are submitted and approved, you will receive your business license, allowing you to legally operate within the freezone.
  7. Apply for Visas: After obtaining your license, you can apply for visas for yourself, your employees, and any dependents through the freezone’s streamlined visa services.
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Benefits of Freezone Business Setup in the UAE

  1. 100% Foreign Ownership: Freezones are the only zones in the UAE where foreign investors can own 100% of their business without the need for a local Emirati sponsor or partner.

  2. Tax Advantages: Freezone businesses enjoy complete tax exemptions, including zero corporate and personal taxes, making it an ideal environment for entrepreneurs and international businesses.

  3. Full Profit Repatriation: Businesses in freezones can repatriate all profits and capital, offering significant financial freedom and security for foreign investors.

  4. Customs and Import/Export Benefits: Freezone companies are exempt from customs duties on imports and exports, allowing businesses to trade internationally without additional financial burden.

  5. Industry-Specific Incentives: Many freezones cater to specific industries such as media, finance, technology, and manufacturing, offering tailored infrastructure and resources to support your business.

FAQs

Yes, one of the main benefits of a freezone company is 100% foreign ownership. You don’t need a local sponsor or partner to set up your business.

Freezone companies are generally restricted from doing business directly in the UAE mainland. However, they can partner with a local distributor or agent to trade within the local market.

Depending on the freezone and the nature of your business, the setup process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Yes, it is possible to convert your freezone company to a mainland company. However, this process involves certain regulatory steps, including obtaining a new business license, re-registering with the relevant authorities, and potentially changing your business structure. Consulting with an expert can help facilitate this transition smoothly.

The number of visas you can obtain with a freezone company depends on the size of your office space and the specific freezone regulations. Generally, freezones provide a specific quota of visas based on the area of your office, allowing you to employ multiple staff members as your business grows.

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