The goal of the free zones in Dubai is to encourage investors from all countries of the world, in addition to facilitating the processes of establishing companies, work procedures, immigration, etc. In this article, we review the most famous zones in addition to the most frequently asked questions.
Free zones in Dubai
With the development of the global economy and changes in the global market, freedom zones have become one of the main elements in attracting investments and promoting economic growth. Dubai is considered one of the major destinations in the world that has a group of advanced free zones that provide an ideal environment for business and investments. In this introduction, we will briefly review some information about free zones in Dubai and their role in enhancing the local economy.
Free zones in Dubai:
Dubai is known for providing a variety of free zones that provide an ideal environment for business and investment. These areas include:
- Jebel Ali Free Zone:
- Jebel Ali Free Zone is one of the oldest and largest free zones in Dubai. The region provides advanced infrastructure and integrated logistics services, making it a preferred destination for companies wishing to import and export.
- Green Mountain Free Zone:
- Al Jabal Al Akhdar Free Zone is characterized by its central location and is available for many commercial and logistical activities. The area provides a range of modern facilities for companies such as storage warehouses and logistics centres.
- Al Qasba Free Zone:
- Al Qasba Free Zone is considered one of the new free zones in Dubai, and provides distinguished investment opportunities in various fields such as industry, technology, and logistics services.
- Dubai Technology and Internet District (Dubai Silicon Oasis):
- Dubai Silicon Oasis is one of the leading technology and internet free zones in Dubai. The region provides an innovative and advanced environment for startups and medium-sized companies in the technology sector.
The role of free zones in enhancing the local economy:
Dubai’s free zones play a vital role in boosting the local economy and enhancing its position as a global center for business and trade. These areas provide a flexible and favorable investment environment that encourages innovation and promotes economic growth. Free zones also facilitate conducting business and providing logistics and manufacturing services effectively, which attracts investors and national and international companies to join the international market through Dubai.
In short, Dubai’s free zones are an important hub for investment and trade in the region, and play a vital role in supporting economic development and promoting trade and investment exchange at the local and international levels.
Advantages of free zones in Dubai
Of course, here are some of the notable features of free zones in Dubai:
- Tax breaks: Provides comprehensive tax breaks on income, personal taxes and VAT (value added), reducing corporate tax costs.
- 100% foreign ownership: Foreign investors are allowed to fully own their companies in Dubai’s free zones without the need for a local partner, which enhances investment freedom and control.
- Advanced Infrastructure: It provides advanced infrastructure including advanced logistics sites and modern industrial facilities, facilitating production and distribution operations.
- Easy access to regional and global markets: Dubai is strategically located in the middle of the Middle East, making it an ideal base for easily accessing regional and global markets.
- Flexible Islamic legislation: Dubai has flexible and innovative legal legislation that provides an open and flexible business environment for companies, which helps accelerate corporate operations.
- Integrated logistics services: The regions provide integrated logistics services including transportation, customs clearance and warehousing, facilitating shipping and distribution operations.
- Innovative business environment: Dubai encourages innovation and entrepreneurship by providing support and encouragement programs for emerging and innovative companies.
- Government guidance and support: The UAE government provides significant support to companies in Dubai’s free zones by providing financing, training and mentoring programmes.
- Economic Diversity: The regions include a variety of economic sectors such as logistics, technology, and tourism, providing diverse investment opportunities.
- Freedom in labor relocation: Dubai offers flexible labor relocation and work visa policies, making the region attractive for migrant workers and facilitating the attraction of global talent.
These features make it an ideal destination for companies seeking to expand their business and achieve success in an innovative and stable business environment.
Types of commercial companies in Dubai
There are several types of companies that can be established in the regions, and these types include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC):
- A limited liability company is a common type of company in. This company has a legal personality independent of the shareholders, and the shareholders are liable for debts and obligations with a certain percentage of the registered capital.
- Joint stock company:
- A joint stock company is also common in, as it is established by raising funds from several shareholders. Shareholders’ liability is limited to the value of their share in the registered capital.
- External branch:
- Foreign companies can establish branches, and the foreign branch is considered a representative of the parent company outside the free zone country. The branches are bound by the financial obligations of the parent company.
- Individual company:
- Individuals can establish a sole proprietorship in, where the individual is solely responsible for the company, debts and liabilities.
- Private foreign shareholding company:
- It allows the establishment of companies with foreign shareholding, where foreign investors have the right to acquire a share in the company.
- Public joint stock company:
- Public joint stock companies are also permitted to be established where their shares are traded on the public financial market.
- Small and medium enterprise companies (SMEs):
- The regions encourage the establishment of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), providing support programs and facilities for these companies.
There is a wide variety of types of companies that can be established, allowing investors to make the best choice according to their needs and goals
What are the most famous free zones?
Dubai South is one of the most important areas, as Dubai South supports all types of businesses and industries and extends over a large area estimated at about 145 square kilometers.
Jebel Ali Free Zone
One of the largest free zones in the world, it is distinguished by offering many advantages to investors, for example: complete tax exemption and the right to own the company 100% without an Emirati sponsor partner, which made the Jebel Ali Free Zone the number one zone for investors.
Dubai Airport Free Zone
One of the most important areas in Dubai since its founding, which makes the decision to establish a company there an excellent step as it supports commercial and industrial businesses and includes major trades in: automobile trade, fashion, telecommunications and information companies, and others.
Dubai Media City
Dubai Media City is considered the largest free zone in the Middle East and Africa and supports the thriving media and business sector. It contains about 1,500 headquarters of the largest media companies around the world.
Dubai International Financial Centre
Dubai International Center is considered one of the most important areas. It supports financial and banking services institutions and companies and includes more than 750 international companies. Thanks to the capabilities and activities it contains, it has become a center for the most famous and largest financial services companies.
Dubai World Trade Centre
One of the most important free zones in Dubai, it supports the growth and development of global trade in the Middle East and aims to strengthen the position of the Dubai World Trade Center as a base for various international companies.
Which free zones in Dubai are right for you?
To choose a suitable free zone for your business, you must make a list of the free zones suitable for you based on the following factors:
- Labor sector.
- Type of license.
- Accompanying.
- means of comfort.
FAQ
- What are the free zones in Dubai?
- It includes areas such as Jebel Ali District, Al Jadida Industrial Area, and Dubai International City (Dubai International City).
- What benefits do free zones provide to companies?
- Benefits include full tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, and easy access to the local and regional market.
- What are the basic steps to establish a company in Dubai?
- The steps include applying for an investment permit, determining the type of company, submitting the required documents, and paying the prescribed fees.
- Is it allowed to establish a company exposed to free zones in Dubai?
- Yes, it is allowed to establish companies exposed to free zones in Dubai.
- What are the main industries that characterize Dubai?
- It is distinguished by providing advanced infrastructure for industries such as logistics, technology, and manufacturing.
- What are the expected fees and costs for establishing a company in free zones?
- Fees and costs vary based on the type of company, size of capital and services required, and are determined in detail by the free zone authority.
- Are there restrictions on the type of commercial activities that can be practiced in free zones?
- Generally, there are no major restrictions on types of business activities, but there may be some restrictions on activities that conflict with local laws or ethics.
- What additional services does Dubai provide to companies?
- Additional services include business facilities, logistical support, advisory services, and bridge financing.
- What are the necessary procedures to obtain a work permit in free zones?
- Procedures include submitting a work permit application, submitting the required documents, and determining the appropriate type of visa for the employee.
- Can companies get government support in Dubai?
- Yes, the UAE government provides government support to companies through a variety of supportive programs and initiatives.
