What is a free zone company in Dubai, and how does it work?

A free zone company is a legal entity registered under a specific Dubai free zone authority, which issues its trade licence and regulates its operations. Free zone companies may carry out only the activities permitted in their licence and may operate within the free zone or internationally. Conducting business in the UAE mainland requires either a local distributor, a mainland branch or a separate licence issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

How does a free zone setup differ from a mainland company setup?

Free zone companies are licensed by their respective free zone authorities and may not conduct business directly in the UAE mainland. Mainland companies licensed by the DET may operate anywhere in the UAE, including government and private-sector markets. Free zones provide 100% foreign ownership and regulated sector-specific environments, while mainland companies follow the UAE Commercial Companies Law requirements.

Can I obtain a residence visa through a free zone company?

Yes. Shareholders and employees may obtain residence visas once the free zone licence and establishment card are issued. Each free zone determines visa quotas based on the type and size of the registered workspace (Flexi Desk, shared desk or physical office).

Is 100% foreign ownership allowed for a Dubai free zone company setup?

Yes. Dubai free zones permit 100% foreign ownership of the company without the need for a UAE national partner or service agent.

Can free zone companies trade directly in the UAE mainland?

No. Free zone companies cannot provide goods or services directly to mainland clients unless they appoint a registered mainland distributor, open a mainland branch or obtain a separate DET licence.

What type of Dubai freezone licence is required for an e-commerce business?

E-commerce activities are licensed as commercial or service activities depending on the business model. Trading of physical goods online: commercial or e-commerce trading activity Digital services (software, consultancy, platforms): service or professional licence with an online activity Retail via third-party platforms: e-commerce or online retail sub-activity Free zones such as DMCC, IFZA and DAFZA offer structured licensing options for e-commerce, including warehousing and fulfilment solutions.

Dubai Free Zone Company Setup | Establish Your Business in UAE Free Zones

Name: Dubai Free Zone Company Setup
Brand: EGSH

Free Zone Business Setup Services in Dubai

Official Dubai Free Zone Company Formation Through EGSH

EGSH acts as an authorised government services centre supporting investors with full free zone company setup across major Dubai free zone jurisdictions.

Through EGSH, investors can register a free zone company in one visit. We confirm your chosen business activity, prepare the required documents, coordinate all approvals with the relevant free zone authority and complete the licence issuance through official channels, ensuring full compliance with UAE free zone regulations.

Why EGSH:

Authorised centre supporting company formation across major Dubai free zones
One-visit submission with complete procedural guidance
VIP service with no queues
Transparent, government-regulated fees

Most Dubai free zone licences are issued within one to three working days, depending on the free zone and activity requirements.

Official Dubai Free Zone Company Formation Through EGSH

Visit EGSH

Visit our centre during working hours—no appointment is required. You may also book a consultation to discuss your freezone company setup in Dubai, preferred activities and visa needs.

Choose the Free Zone and Structure

With our guidance, select the most suitable Dubai free zone for your business (such as DMCC, IFZA, DSO or DAFZA), decide on the legal form, and agree on your proposed trade name and activities.

Submit the Application

EGSH prepares and submits your application for forming a company in a Dubai free zone through the chosen authority, ensuring compliance with UAE free zone regulations.

Receive Your Free Zone Licence

Once approved, your freezone licence is issued. After registration, you may secure office or flexi-desk space within the free zone and start applying for residence visas linked to your company.

Visit EGSH for VIP Service Without Queues

You can stop by EGSH during working hours without an appointment or book your visit at a time that suits you best.

Address
Art of Living Mall, Al Barsha 2, Dubai

Operating hours
Monday — Saturday: 9:00 am — 5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Call +971 4 612 1810 WhatsApp

Identification Documents

A passport copy of each shareholder and manager. Additional KYC documents may be requested depending on the zone.

Application and Activity Details

Completed registration form, selected business activity, and proposed trade name compliant with free zone regulations.

Office Space Confirmation

A lease agreement or service contract for a virtual or physical office within the chosen free zone.

Corporate or Background Documents

Business plan, CVs of shareholders, or parent company documents for branches.

Take a 3D Tour of EGSH

VIP Service

Personal assistance and priority processing with no queues.

Affordable Fees

Official government rates with transparent, fixed pricing.

All Services in One Place

Comprehensive range of UAE government services under one roof.

One-Visit Completion

Most procedures are completed in a single visit to the centre.

What Is a Free Zone Company in Dubai

A free zone company in Dubai is a business entity established under the regulatory framework of a designated free zone authority. Each authority functions as an independent licensing body empowered to register companies, issue trade licences, supervise compliance, and regulate economic activities within its jurisdiction.

Free zone companies operate under specific rules set by the authority that governs the zone, including restrictions on permitted activities, workspace requirements, audit obligations, and licensing authorities that differ from mainland procedures.

A Dubai free zone company may conduct activities authorised in its licence category—such as trading, consultancy, service provision, media production, technology development or logistics—subject to the sector specialisation of the free zone.

Free zone entities may operate within the free zone and internationally. Conducting commercial activities directly in the UAE mainland requires an additional mainland licence under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), a mainland branch, or a contractual arrangement with a registered local distributor. These restrictions ensure compliance with the UAE’s federal commercial licensing framework and prevent unlicensed mainland operations.

Many Dubai free zones function as dedicated economic clusters supporting specific industries—such as commodities, aviation, e-Commerce, technology, financial services, media, healthcare, and logistics. Their regulatory environments are designed to facilitate foreign investment, provide streamlined administrative processes, and offer a controlled, sector-focused ecosystem conducive to international business.

What Are the Benefits of a Dubai Free Zone Company

Dubai free zones provide a regulated corporate environment that offers structural, operational and financial advantages designed to attract foreign investment. These benefits are mandated by the regulations of each free zone authority and apply exclusively to companies licensed under their jurisdiction.

Key regulatory advantages include:

100% Foreign Ownership
Free zone entities allow full foreign ownership without the need for a UAE national shareholder or service agent. This enables investors to retain complete control of their corporate structure and equity.
Preferential Tax Treatment
Free zone companies benefit from zero personal income tax and may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate under the UAE Corporate Tax framework, provided they meet the definition of “Qualifying Free Zone Person” and comply with the substance and activity conditions established by the Federal Tax Authority.
Repatriation of Capital and Profits
Free zone regulations permit unrestricted repatriation of capital and profits, facilitating cross-border transactions and international investment structures.

Streamlined Licensing and Administration
Company formation, licence issuance, amendments and renewals are centralised under a single authority, reducing administrative delays and enabling faster regulatory approvals.
Visa Eligibility for Shareholders and Employees
Free zone entities may apply for residence visas for shareholders and employees. Visa quotas are linked to the size and type of office or workspace registered within the free zone.
Sector-Focused Infrastructure
Free zones provide commercial offices, flexi desks, warehouses, production facilities, laboratories, logistics hubs and specialised industry clusters aligned with their economic mandate. This ensures that companies operate within a compliant, well-regulated environment tailored to their business model.

These advantages make free zone companies an effective structure for international trade, service provision, holding activities, and sector-specific operations requiring a predictable regulatory environment.

How to Choose the Right Free Zone for Company Formation

Choosing the appropriate free zone requires assessing regulatory, commercial and operational factors, as each authority applies its own rules, licence categories, pricing models and compliance requirements. Free zones differ significantly in sector focus, infrastructure, visa quotas, contractual framework, and permitted activities.

Key considerations include:

Business Activity Requirements
Each free zone authorises a specific range of activities. For example:

DMCC specialises in commodities, financial services and professional activities.
DAFZA focuses on international trading, logistics and high-tech sectors.
DSO is dedicated to technology, R&D, and engineering.
IFZA is oriented toward professional services and SME activities with flexible licensing models.

Selecting a free zone aligned with the planned activity avoids external approvals and ensures smoother licensing.

Workspace and Visa Needs
Most free zones require companies to lease a Flexi Desk, shared desk or physical office. Workspace type determines visa quotas, ranging from 0–6 visas per desk to higher quotas for dedicated offices.

Regulatory and Cost Structure
Authorities apply different fee schedules for licence issuance, registration, renewals, establishment cards and workspace rentals. Some zones require additional regulatory approvals depending on the activity.
Geographic and Operational Factors
Proximity to ports, airports, logistics hubs and industry clusters may influence which zone is operationally suitable.

EGSH evaluates these factors and recommends a jurisdiction where the business activity, budget, visa requirements and operational model align with the free zone’s regulatory environment.

Stages of Dubai Free Zone Company Setup

The procedures of the selected free zone authority govern Dubai free zone company formation. Although specific steps vary, the core stages follow a structured regulatory sequence designed to validate shareholder identity, confirm the business activity, establish the corporate structure and issue a legally compliant licence.

Selection of Free Zone and Activity
The applicant identifies a free zone whose permitted activities match the intended business model. This step defines the licence category (commercial, service, industrial, media, e-Commerce, etc.) and any external approvals required.
Determination of Legal Structure and Trade Name Approval
Free zones typically allow a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) with a single shareholder or a Free Zone Company (FZCO) with multiple shareholders. The trade name must meet the authority’s naming guidelines and is reserved upon approval.
Submission of Initial Approval Documents
Authorities review shareholder passport copies, application forms, activity details and—if applicable—corporate documents for branch or subsidiary registration. Certain regulated activities may require additional approval from external government bodies.

Workspace Allocation
The company must secure a Flexi Desk, shared desk or dedicated office within the free zone. Workspace type determines the number of residence visas the company may issue.
Company Registration and Licence Issuance
After signing the incorporation documents and paying government fees, the free zone authority registers the company and issues the official trade licence.
Post-Incorporation Procedures
Following registration, the company may obtain its establishment card, apply for residence visas for shareholders and employees, open corporate bank accounts, register for VAT if required, and comply with any ongoing reporting or audit obligations imposed by the free zone.

EGSH coordinates each stage to ensure that all regulatory actions are completed accurately within the authority’s system.

Documents Required to Establish a Free Zone Company in Dubai

Free zone authorities require specific documents to verify shareholder identity, confirm proposed activities and register the corporate structure. Requirements vary depending on whether the shareholder is an individual or a corporate entity.

Identification Documents
Passport copies of all shareholders and the appointed manager. Some zones may request additional proof of residence or identification where required for compliance.
Application and Activity Information
Completed registration forms, selected business activity, and a proposed trade name that meets the free zone authority’s naming rules.
Workspace Confirmation
A Flexi Desk, shared desk or office lease agreement issued by the free zone. Workspace type determines visa eligibility and operational capacity.
Corporate Documents (if applicable)
For branch or subsidiary registration, authorities may require attested parent company documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association and a Board Resolution authorising the new entity.

These documents are reviewed during initial approval and must be in compliance with the free zone’s legal framework.

Government Fees for Dubai Free Zone Company Setup

Government fees for free zone company formation differ significantly across authorities and are determined by the licence type, number of shareholders, visa quotas and workspace requirements. Each free zone publishes its own tariff schedule based on regulatory obligations.

Typical fee components include:

Free Zone Licence Fee—Annual fee based on the business activity.
Registration and Incorporation Fees—One-time charges for initial approval, document review and company formation.
Establishment Card Fee—Required to initiate visa applications under the free zone.
Workspace Fee—Mandatory cost of Flexi Desk, shared desk or office lease within the free zone.
Additional Regulatory Fees—Charges for document attestation, external approvals, activity amendments or additional business activities.

EGSH provides a complete fee breakdown based on the selected free zone and the specific business activity, ensuring transparency and compliance with the authority’s regulations.

Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH

Explained by

Shaimaa Sayed Qasem

Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH

Shaimaa Sayed Qasem is a dedicated service provider at the Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH, with seven years of experience delivering business services, supporting clients and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Trade Licence Registration

Initial Approval

Apply for initial approval through EGSH, a government-authorised centre.

Trade Name Reservation

Reserve your official trade name in Dubai in minutes with EGSH.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Free Zone Company Setup

Still have any questions?

I got a delightful service from them to upgrade my visa category half of the expected timeline. Compared with my previous place, this the best and I would like to recommend any of visa service for all of you. * reasonable fair (I was asked twice my previous what I paid). * fast service and delivering before timeline. * Authentic service. Thank you so much Maria for your dedicated service.!

An exceptional service from Zara at EGSH. She guided us perfectly through the process and managed to get us even more than we had anticipated. A world class service center with exceptional staff. Would recommend them to anyone who wants to get sorted for government services

Hello, My Name is Kelvin it was my first time to hear EGSH Emirates Govt from my sponsor. I was assisted By Mrs Maria Claudia Garcia the experience was amazing from the beginning to the End she has been supporting and guiding me through all the process. I am grateful to her and the entire team for the help. I trust and believe EGSH is a place to recommend to family members and friends.

A very hassle free experience from EGSH. Special mention of Ms.Zara who was most helpfull. Her quick response to queries and swift action are much appeciated.

We had the pleasure of being assisted by the lovely Ms Maria and Ms Randa. They were clear concise and super professional throughout our whole process of renewing our Ejari and business licence. Maria provided continued support while we were waiting for our business Ejari to come through and made it a simple seamless process. I can’t thank these lovely ladies enough. We saved so much money going direct and it was refreshing knowing we are not over paying going through a PRO or typing service company that add so many fees. I saved over 6000aed just for reference. Thank you to EGSH staff. Especially Maria & Randa 🙏

EGSH in art of living is the best Hub center for every thing that you want in dubai Specially Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI is the advisor and assistance and she is beside you in every step Thank you Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI and EGSH

I recently visited this institution had an exceptional experience! Ms. Maria Claudia took the time to understand my needs and preferences. I really appreciate her support and services.

Good morning, I needed to apply for the Golden Visa and went to this EGSH Emirates office. I was very impressed by their facilities and the peaceful atmosphere. We were fortunate to be assisted by María Claudia García, who provided exceptional service. She advised and helped us every step of the way, guiding us through the entire process until we obtained the Golden Visa. Honestly, people with this level of professionalism and personal touch make one feel more at ease and integrated into this country. Thank you!

I would like to express my appreciation to Ray from EGSH for his outstanding assistance in handling the transfer of our property at Rove Hotel. He was very helpful, accommodating, and patient throughout the entire process, from addressing transaction concerns and verifying documents to the actual property transfer and ensuring the new owner received the title deed…

I worked with Amir and Zara, they took care of everything, I only had to send the mandatory information. In a very short time, everything was completed. I was amazed, considering how difficult it had seemed before. Not to mention, the fees were the same or even lower than those of the other companies I mentioned. For me, it was a 10/10 experience, the quickest and smoothest process someone could have in this journey. Strongly recommend them.

Zara assisted me with my Ejari registration, and she was absolutely amazing. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and delivered everything promptly. Truly a pleasure to work with!

THE BEST!!! Zara you are as always star

Thanks to EGSH and to Zara for Excellent service — professional, attentive, and truly pleasant experience. Highly recommended!

Had an amazing service for the transfer of property there, specially Rachel Rahmat she was very helpfull throughout the process, looking forward to work more.

Visited for the first time for a property transfer and had an amazing experience with Jessieca! She was professional, helpful, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for all government services excellent customer service!

Personally, I find this the best centre in Dubai. They always go the extra mile. Especially Maria Garcia has help out so much in such an efficient way! Thank you!

Went there for ejari cancellation. Excellent place. Staff was so cooperative. Ms Maria and Ms Fatima assist me and it was a fast process.

This is probably the best government service hub in Dubai. You come in, asked to be seated, and the staff will come to you instead of standing on the reception and on queue. They will offer you tea and water are available at each table. Really embodies the Emirati hospitality and what seamstresses Dubai is known for.

I was here the morning of this post. The concierge like service with a contact person arranging for you all the difeerent interactions is making the interactuon as smooth as possible. A truly delightful experience and a true commitment to service excellence, thank you for the great experience and for the initiative to present government interactions in this way!

Outstanding service — fast, friendly, and highly professional. Thank you very much!

I’ve been here for the first time and I can say that this organization definitely worth to come here and make all proceeds with their help! We were changing the owner and such difficult process was really easy for us with your help and most of the time it was done online. So I’m very grateful to Mrs Zara and her support during all the process❤️

I had an excellent experience with Natalia Baiamonte from EGSH while getting Ejari certificate. From the very beginning, she was professional, attentive, and extremely helpful. Natalia guided me through the process clearly, answered all my questions with patience, and made task feel simple and stress-free. Highly recommend Natalia for her outstanding customer service and dedication!

We had great experience with Amal She is so helpful and awesome She stayed with us over her duty today just to finish her work Thanks Amal

I had a really good experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub). Everything went smoothly and the team was super helpful. Special thanks to Zara and Amal. they were so supportive and kind throughout the process. Really appreciate it!

I had a great experience with this office. They handle everything related to company setup, residency, Golden Visa, DLD, and more. The office is very clean, modern, and welcoming, and the staff are extremely professional and polite. A special thank to Ms. Zara for her kindness and guidance throughout the process so smoothly and professionally, and to Ms. Amal for managing the administrative registration.

Zara is the best always attentive to every requests and helping with a solving problems without delay thank you Zara❤️🌸 …

Absolutely stunning office, i am awestruck. No one can beat Dubai for the kind of hospitality you get in a government office… Its mind-blowing 😍 i wish i could give a 10 star rating (double) on 5 🤩

I had a great experience with EGHS. I was assisted by Sarah Almeida and she delivered an amazing service. Very attentive, promptly responded my messages and guided me throughout the process. It was all very smooth and done very quickly. I highly recommend and I’ll definitely use their services again.