Abu Dhabi

Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) free zone is dedicated to higher education and the pursuit of intellectual growth. DIAC was launched in April 2007 to cater to the needs of the region’s growing and diverse academic community. It serves over 24,000 students from all around the world by being home to numerous national and international colleges. They have nearly 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programs that are offered to these students.

Types of Entities Allowed in DIAC

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
• Branch Office  of a Local or Foreign Company

Activities Permitted in DIAC

• Higher education
• Online University
• Educational services
• Non-academic services
• Freelancing
• Branch school
• Boarding school and general activities

Established in September 2004, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the world’s fastest growing international financial center, that caters to the financial needs of the region. This federal financial free zone aims to develop to the same stature as New York, London, Tokyo, and Hong Kong, and primarily serves the global financial centers between Western Europe and East Asia due to the time-zone advantage. Since its establishment, DIFC has attracted top-notch firms across the globe, owing to its efficiency, operational transparency and core value of integrity. DIFC is home to a world-class stock exchange, the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX), which was opened in September 2005.

Financial Activities Allowed in DIFC

Businesses operating in Dubai International Financial Centre free zone are allowed to perform the following activities in the region:

Types of Licenses Available in DIFC

Established in the year 1999 in the heart of New Dubai, Dubai Internet City (DIC) free zone is the largest Information and Communications Technology (ICT) business park in the entire Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA). DIC is the typical provider of a tactical and economic platform for ICT companies which are trying to find their share in the market, and with the introduction of “in5 system” in 2013 for tech start-ups in Dubai and new entrepreneurs, it has witnessed a great boom. Located 25 kilometers from Dubai, the free zone is strategically great for attracting dynamic IT international community to set up their operations in DIC.

Business Licenses in Dubai Internet City

DIC allows all types of businesses to be set up in the free zone, but these are the most prominent licenses:

A software license in DIC is for any activity related to developing, installing and/or modifying software products of the company or of a third party.

This license must be obtained for any activity related to developing, installing, modifying, and/or operating networks or providing relevant services designed for operating network-based applications or services for self or for third parties.

An e-commerce license is required for any activity related to individual services and products to third parties through electronic media such as an internet search engine, portal, website, social media etc. for the purpose of selling goods and services.

An IT service license encompasses any activity related to developing and/or providing standardized repeatable IT-based services, which may also include security solutions, localization, training, and corporate learning.

This license should be procured for any activity related to developing and/or distributing internet or multimedia content. Other activities may include distributing goods or services via the internet, such as by providing an online platform and acting as an intermediary between multiple companies or multiple individuals.

Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) is the world’s only free zone in the city of Dubai which is completely into human resource management, professional learning, and educational intelligence. It was established in the year 2003 by TECOM group. This free zone aims to develop the talent pool in the region and make the UAE a knowledge-based economy. With over 450 business partners, DKV aims to establish itself as a trusted business partner and a center of excellence for business development.

Activities Permitted in DKV Free Zone

• Computer training
• Language training
• Fine arts training
• Tutoring services
• Technical and occupational skills
• Professional and management development training
• Child skills development training
• Human resource consultancy
• Content development
• Assessment and training
• Freelancing and association

Licenses Available in DKV Free Zone

• Freelance Permit
• Commercial License

Dubai Logistics City (DLC), also known as Dubai World Central, is the world’s first platform which was built for the purpose and development of logistics. DLC has been built to promote and provide better logistic and trade facilities in the UAE. Dubai Logistics is a government initiative which is the world’s first purpose-built aerotropolis. DLC is built in the neighboring region of Jebel Ali Sea Port, covering an area of 140 sq. km. This Dubai free zone is the biggest and most ambitious project taken up by the government in order to increase the trading opportunities for the Emirate but also houses other business communities like restaurants, shops, leisure facilities, and other services with a beautiful geography. Logistics-driven companies have great scope and business growth in DLC as all the amenities and benefits here are focused only on the development of the logistics and trade sector of the UAE.

Benefits of Business Setup in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone

Being the world’s biggest platform for the logistics industry, DLC provides numerous benefits for companies that start a business in it. The top benefits of starting a business in DLC are:

• It is a personalized sector built to cater to the huge requirement of logistics
• The free zone offers 100% foreign ownership, free transfer of capital, and exemption from income tax
• DLC is a built-apart corridor connecting DLC via Jebel Ali Port
• The landscape covers a sprawling area providing a home to over 7000 companies, including many of the 500 fortune club companies
• There is a pre-built warehouse facility, custom built units for freight forwarders, and a separate lane for heavy vehicle movement
• DLC is into a comprehensive tax arrangement for the UAE, African and North Asian countries
• It has a well-defined distribution channel catering to African, South-East European, Middle East, and SAARC (South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation) countries
• The visa regulations are liberal and the workforce is easily available, with visa services for labor, transportation, and other purposes

For centuries, Dubai has attracted the interest of seafarers and global traders because of its strategic placement between Europe and Asia and witnessed the subsequent emergence as a happening trading center in 1833 when a trading port was set up in the city. A part of the Dubai World Group of companies, Dubai Maritime City (DMC) holds the distinction of being the world's first strategically-built maritime centre that has been created not only to cater to the requirements of the maritime sector, but also to provide a world-class environment for the global maritime community and act as a platform for networking and integration of different maritime businesses and services, adding extra value to the entire maritime community. The main regulatory body of DMC, the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) was created in 2007 to develop, monitor, and promote maritime activities. It aims for the maritime community to have a dynamic urban lifestyle.

The DMC structure is made up of 6 strategic locations:

• It is set up as the main business center for local and international maritime companies
• The industrial precinct where vessels can undergo repairs
• The academic quarter is designed as a study center
• The marina district which serves as a recreational center
• The harbor residence for residential purposes
• The harbor offices for maritime businesses to set up their firm

Dubai Media City (DMC) was established in January 2000, in the reflection of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and the Prime Minister of the UAE, to transform Dubai into a knowledge-based society and economy. 

Dubai Media City offers a supportive platform for media-oriented companies to display their products and services, therefore, since its launch in 2000, more than 1,400 companies have set up their operations in this free zone including global media giants like Bertelsmann, BBC, MBC, CNN, Reuters, CNBC, Forbes, Sony, and Showtime, among others.

Business Segments in Dubai Media City

The Dubai government supports forms of business ventures under its jurisdiction and in Dubai Media City, there are business sectors you can choose from:

Dubai is the ideal hub for the financial, economic and cultural activities in all of Middle East. Dubai has clusters of free zones, among which the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is the world’s premier free trade zone. It has grown into the commodity center for not just the Middle East but for the entire world. DMCC is unlike any other Dubai Free Zone but with a lot of potential and opportunity for the retail and commerce sector. 

DMCC was established in 2002, with a strategic initiative of the Dubai Government to provide a marketplace and necessary physical and financial infrastructure to run a thriving commodities market. At present, DMCC free zone is the house for almost 12,000 companies which are actively operating including both commodities and other businesses.

Advantages of Company Formation in DMCC

DMCC's facilities and free zone benefits foster all the needs and requirements of all types of business activities in the world. DMCC has been rated ‘A’ by Standard and Poors. Setting up a company in DMCC will not only bring a great brand name for your company but also you will be benefited with the following advantages:

• 100% foreign business ownership & 100% capital repatriation
• Total exemption from corporate tax and personal income tax, guaranteed for 50 years
• Easy licensing procedures for a range of business activities
• Plug-and-play office installations
• Easy lease or sale optional available for offices at competitive rates
• Immigration services to take care of all visa and work permit requirements
• Networking opportunities like events, workshops, and exhibitions
• Trade regulations and compliance standards training on a periodic basis to stay up to date on the latest in the legal framework
• Access to trading commodities like gold, diamond, and commodities of exchange
• Lucrative investment opportunities for both investors and businesses
• A regulated and secure business environment

With a purpose to cater to the demand of outsourcing companies in Dubai, the Dubai Outsource City free zone was launched in the year 2007. This place gives multiple organizations a reliable place to conduct outsourcing activities. Also called DOC, Dubai Outsource City supports HR outsourcing, IT outsourcing, back-office activities, call center operations, and business process outsourcing. Currently, there are over 120 companies housing in DOC for their back office and outsourcing activities. DOC provides the ideal platform, infrastructure, and facilities for companies wishing to set up an outsourcing business in the United Arab Emirates.

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in DOC

• 100% tax exemption
• Networking opportunities
• Cutting-edge infrastructure
• 100% repatriation of capital and profits
• Communication infrastructure based on next-generation technologies
• Dynamic international communities
• Great opportunities for channel and market development
• Metro Ethernet environment
• No currency restrictions

Dubai Production City, formerly known as International Media Production Zone (IMPZ), was established in the year 2003 as an evolving replica of Dubai Media City. IMPZ is a Dubai free zone which is leveraged towards the dedicated media and production companies in the UAE. IMPZ is an ideal Dubai free zone for nearly media companies, including broadcasting, internet, and others. The IMPZ free zone is located near Jumeirah Village South and provides many benefits for companies which are involved in printing & publishing, graphic designing, and other media-oriented activities.

Licensing and Business Activity Options

DCCA is the regulatory body which provides the necessary license as per requests. Here are a few licensing options you can choose from:

1. Printing Press License

A license granted for publishing activity.

2. General License

This license can be availed to carry out activities like travel, insurance, courier services, legal advisory, marketing, and others.

3. Designer License

The license holder of this license can take up the profession of graphic designing.

There are other licensing options available in IMPZ which companies can choose from. The business activities which can be carried out in IMPZ under the rules and regulations of DCCA are:

• Marketing
• Import and export
• Support services
• Digital and newspaper printing
• Commercial and industrial printing
• Online publishing and electronic content

Dubai Silicon Oasis was established by the Government of Dubai in 2004 and is one-of-its-kind Free Zone reputed for world-class innovation, design, and development in the field of photovoltaic, nanotechnology, electronics optoelectronic technology, and supporting industries providing equipment and materials for the production of information and communications technologies using semiconductors. It is the only technology park in the UAE to provide integrated living and working community.

Business setup in Dubai Silicon Oasis has also received a substantial boost due to its dynamic commercial and social environment, and presence of advanced industrial zones, office towers, villas & apartments, R&D units, educational institutions, and healthcare units. The DSO facilities include:

• "Plug and Play" offices and R&D centers
• Advanced logistics facilities including light industrial units, operational warehouse units, high-bay warehouses, and industrial spaces
• Shovel ready industrial land plots of varying sizes
• Excellent conference facilities including meeting rooms and lecture facility for executive presentations
• Shops, amenities, and restaurants

The government of Dubai has built Dubai South to create an environment that empowers individuals to achieve all their aspirations for the greater good of the society. Formerly known as the Dubai World Central, Dubai South Free Zone is an ambitious project by the Government of Dubai to make this free zone a largest business and aviation hub in the region. It is recognized as one of the most pioneering and exceptional projects in Dubai. The most important reason is its being host to one of the largest business events in the region – the World Expo 2020. The heart of Dubai South is just a 10-minute drive away from Jebel Ali seaport – one of the busiest ports of the world, and a 15-minute drive away from Al Maktoum International Airport – one of the largest airports in the world. It is a region that empowers everyone to achieve their ambitions and desires.

Business Activities Permissible in Dubai South Free Zone

• Agriculture
• Classification Services
• Construction & Contracting
• Financial Intermediation
• Health & Social Work
• Manufacturing, Mining & Quarrying
• Real State & Renting
• Social & Personal Services
• Trading & Services
• Transport, Storage & Communication

Launched in the year 2005, Dubai Studio City is one among the several media-driven, capitalized initiatives made by the Dubai Holding Subsidiary TECOM Investments. Also called DSC free zone, it offers the right combination of planned infrastructure, talent pool, and a dynamic business environment to support the growth of broadcast, movie, television, and music production companies in the Middle East region. It is spread across 22 million sq. ft and features pre-built studios, sound stages, warehouses, workshops, office spaces, latest satellite communication facilities, stage areas, etc.

Activities in DSC Free Zone

• Animation
• Broadcast services
• Radio station-satellite
• IP streaming
• TV network-satellite
• Film support service
• Music and entertainment
• Production (TV, film, and radio)
• Themed amusement and recreational activities

Dubai is a flourishing and the most cosmopolitan emirate in the UAE. The progressive thinking government of Dubai realizes the importance of investment in the development of technology and innovation. This futuristic thought has given rise to TechnoPark in the heart of Dubai Industrial Zone. Dubai TechnoPark (TP) is still under construction and covers an area of 21 million square meters of land. The main purpose of this innovation center in Dubai is to provide for the local and foreign investors who are willing to invest in modern technology and infrastructure. Some of the greatest techno-based companies have already started their operations in Dubai TechnoPark.

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in Dubai TechnoPark

The free zone is driven towards the development of future technologies and supporting companies which have their operations in this sector. Here are a few reasons advantages of setting up your tech company in Dubai TP:

• 100% foreign ownership of industrial units in case of a branch of a foreign company, or a free zone company
• Freedom of capital and profit repatriation
• Long-term lease agreement up to 15 years
• One-stop shop (including licensing and related government services)
• Easy availability of visa service
• Great road connectivity (having 8 entry points)
• Strategic location near the Jebel Ali Airport, which grants it the advantage of super-convenient air connectivity. It also has easy access to seaports and transportation through the sea.

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) free zone was started with a view to providing an effective, competitive, and well-regulated business ecosystem to compete effectively in local and international markets. The free zone is under the jurisdiction of the Dubai World Trade Center Authority (DWTCA) and enjoys corporate body status, financial and administrative autonomy and full legal power to carry out its duties and activities. The World Trade Center free zone has a strategic location like the iconic World Trade Center and the adjoining Dubai Trade Center District. From an investor’s point of view, this free zone provides strong incentives for businesses to use Dubai as a springboard to enter a local or the international market. Its primary focus on hospitality, entertainment, and amenities within a periphery make Dubai World Trade Center free zone a complete, convenient, and connected business environment.

Services Provided by the DWTC Authority

1. Registration Services

For forming a new legal entity.

2. Licensing Services

Issuance and renewal of license and business operating permits.

3. Immigration Services

Issuance of entry permits and renewal of visas.

4. General and Administrative Services

Issuance of certificates for any purpose, including no-objection certificate.

Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Economic Zones World (EZW) free zone is committed to the ownership, operation, management and development of free trade zones and industrial parks under the Dubai World Group. This free zone was established in 2006 with the aim of providing a robust network of infrastructure platforms of such zones and parks across the globe with an objective to support the dynamic expansion of its booming international customer base. EZW operates as a subsidiary of DP World FZE and is a responsible and socially committed global organization which aims to deploy its evolving dynamic and customer-centric business models to grow and maintain a sustainable society wherever it operates while achieving quality commercial success for its corporate ventures. The free zone is currently operating in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

Businesses Established in EZW

The spanning of EZW's business added various major companies in it and thus fostered the growth very rapidly. EZW's current portfolio comprises many renowned regions, including:

• Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) – One of the world's largest free zones
• TechnoPark – A research-driven business and industrial park
• Dubai Auto Zone – An automobile industry-specific free zone

Key Benefits of Setting Up a Company in EZW

• 100% tax exemption
• 100% foreign ownership
• 100% repatriation of capital and profits
• Minimal renewal fee
• Provision to own a bank account
• Flexibility of property ownership
• No restrictions for carrying out multiple businesses

The International Humanitarian City (IHC) was created in the year 2003 by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, as an aid and humanitarian hub offering services and facilities to the global operations of humanitarian organizations and commercial suppliers to assist the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian operations. IHC provides an adequate environment to foster partnership and social responsibility in a clear legal framework. IHC was launched by the government as an independent authority and is a non-religious, non-political, and non-profit organization.

The free zone offers commercial companies the opportunity to operate from a highly strategic location in a free zone environment that is adapted to their particular industry while benefitting from the attractive incentives and an array of value-added services.

Facilities in IHC

• Office space
• Warehouse facilities
• Meeting room
• Business and training facilities
• Dedicated UN building
• Auditorium and cafeteria

Established in 1985, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is the flagship operation of Dubai based and state-owned ‘Economic Zones World’ (one of the world’s biggest developers of economic zones, logistics, and R&D-driven industrial parks) and offers light industrial units, land, offices, and warehouses on a long-term lease. Spread over 48 sq. km, JAFZA is one of the world’s most service-driven, customer-centric free zones. Free from red tape and restrictions, JAFZA provides its customers an environment which is most conducive to growth.

JAFZA has manifested itself as a globally renowned commercial and industrial hub, attracting crème de la crème investors from the Middle East region, Europe, the Indian Sub-continent, America, Africa, and other nations owing to its unique value-added propositions.

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in JAFZA

• No restrictions on currency or minimum capital investment
• 100% foreign ownership: JAFZA allows its clients to operate as a wholly owned entity, without any need for local partnership. Moreover, the shareholder's liability is limited to the amount of its paid-up share capital
• 0% corporate tax for a period of 50 years, a concession that is renewable
• No currency restrictions and flexibility for companies to transfer any required capital
• 0% customs duties on import and/or re-export
• No restriction on hiring foreign employees
• A company established in JAFZA that has built its own facility has the convenience of mortgaging its own premises on the leased land to any bank or financing company for any of their debts or obligations
• Access to abundant energy makes this place cost-effective for clients to conduct production operations
• Presence of ready-made factories, warehouses, convention centers, on-site residential complexes, and pre-fitted offices
• Excellent infrastructure, support services, and communications

Developed around the prestigious Racecourse in Dubai, Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) serves as one of the cost-effective destinations for startups and business formation. The free zone is located in downtown Dubai and its development has led to a widespread commercial space which includes commercial properties, hotels, entertainment facilities, sports venue, and residential community. The main aim of Meydan free zone is streamlined to encourage the entrepreneurs with low-cost startups to flourish. This makes the Meydan Free Zone Authority a viable prospect for foreign investment in the heart of the international horse racing and the equestrian scene in the Middle East.

Types of Licenses Available in Meydan Free Zone

There are 3 types of licenses available in MFZ:

1. Commercial License

It allows import and export, trading of various goods and services. This free zone has not yet started providing warehouse facilities.

2. Consultancy License

It allows professionals resourcing and consultancy.

3. Media License

It includes media operations like an advertisement, marketing, and communication.

Business Activities Allowed in Meydan Free Zone

• Trading
• Import and export of goods
• Consultancy and professional services
• Advertising
• Marketing & communications

Types of Business Entities Allowed in MFZ

The following types of business entities are allowed in MFZ:

• Sole Establishment (FZ)
• Limited Liability Company (LLC-FZ)
• Branch/Representative Office

Modern International Logistics and strategically promising location of the Fujairah free zone are the main factors that attract foreign direct investments into the region. A free zone in Fujairah can deal with a simplified scheme of communication with the state bodies and process of registration of the international companies. The transport availability of this free trade economic zone of UAE is worth noting separately. In particular, the following transportation lines are available:

• Region’s largest Fujairah shipping port
• Fujairah Airport international air harbor
• Well-established highway service

The investors and business people, through efficient solutions in the field of transport logistics, have the opportunity to optimize many business processes and to reduce the delivery time of different products. Low production costs and minimal overhead expenses will make your business project in Fujairah free zone cost-effective and profitable.

1. Fujairah Free Zone Click for details

Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ) is located adjacent to the Port of Fujairah and has access to the world’s major shipping routes, a world-class airport, and streamlined procedures. This free zone is ideal for start-ups and young entrepreneurs as well as for investors. Fujairah Free Zone authority promises an exceptional growth for new ideas and company formation in the region by making sure that they have been provided with excellent infrastructure, flexible government policies, and other customary benefits of a free zone.

2. International Free Zone Authority Click for details

International Free Zone Authority (IFZA), located next to the Port of Fujairah, is set to become a leading investment hub in the UAE. The free zone has easy access to all the Arabian Gulf Ports, and the booming markets of Iran, India, and Pakistan. IFZA is also close to Fujairah International Airport and has advantages like a strategic location with access to the world's major shipping routes, port and airport, and streamlined procedures.

Located next to the Port of Fujairah, International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is set to quickly become a leading investment hub within the thriving UAE economy. The free zone has easy access to all the Arabian Gulf Ports, and the booming markets of Iran, India, and Pakistan. IFZA is also close to Fujairah International Airport and such advantages including strategic location with the access to world's major shipping routes, port and airport, and streamlined procedures, make the free zone an ideal place to set up a business in Fujairah.

Facilities Provided by IFZA

• A wide range of modern office solutions which have:
  • European design
  • Modern, open interiors with ample natural light
  • Flexible usage options
  • Flexible rental duration
  • 24/7 access
• Warehouse facilities include various size options build on the highest international logistics standards
  • Various sizes
  • Flexible rental duration
  • 24/7 access
• Various quality and spacious retail outlet options to selected brands
  • Large storefronts
  • Easy access
  • High-quality common areas
  • 24/7 security

The Fujairah free trade zone has been created with the aim to comfortably run operations of international businesses in the Emirate. The other benefits of setting up your business here are as below:

• Free zones 100% foreign ownership
• Strategic location
• Simple recruitment procedures
• Focal point for global businesses
• Modern communication systems
• Full reimbursement of capital and profits
• Stable currency

Fujairah Free Zone License Types

Like all other free zones, a company needs to obtain a business license before it can establish its respective business in Fujairah Free Zone. Business licenses are categorized according to nature of activity:

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is one of the 7 emirates of the UAE. It is emerging as one of the fastest growing free trade zones in the UAE. Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, RAK free zone is poised to take over the title of one of the most sought-after investment destinations in the UAE. Though there is a wealth of free zones in the entire Emirates, what makes RAK stand out in the UAE is its strategic location. RAK is closest to the far eastern nations: China, India, Iran, Pakistan, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Apart from the ease of access, hassle-free administrative procedures and proximity Port Saqr (which is close to a primary shipping lane passing through the Strait of Hormuz), RAK functions as a prominent port and offshoring destination in the northern part of the Emirates.

Free Zones in RAK:

1. RAK Investment Authority Free Zone (RAKIA) Click for details
2. Ras Al Khaimah Media Free Zone Click for details
3. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) Click for details
4. RAK Maritime City Click for details

Below is an estimation of RAK free zone company setup cost:

To develop an investment climate and promote Ras al-Khaimah’s economic sector, Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA) Free Zone was founded in 2015. It is composed of 2 industrial parks for investors to choose from while setting up a business in the free zone. RAKIA free zone provides great support to its investors and ensures smooth and hassle-free business setup at a very low cost, thus helping companies to thrive in the region and beyond. Its vision to build a diverse economy that enjoys strong and sustainable growth by attracting foreign investment is what makes RAKIA one of the best free zones in the UAE. Also, given the strategic geographical location at the crossroads between the east and the west, excellent infrastructure, strong support from the government, and, not to forget, the unmatched natural beauty, it is no surprise that RAKIA has emerged as a destination of choice for investors and leisure travelers alike.

Facilities for Business Setup in RAKIA

1. Industrial Land

RAK Investment Authority free zone provides land on long-term lease for industrial ventures in its 2 industrial parks in Al Hamra and Al Ghail in Ras Al Khaimah, the major advantages being international airport and sea-port located within an hour’s drive, and proximity to national highways for easy connectivity with other emirates and neighboring GCC countries.

2. Warehouses

For the benefit of companies engaged in trading, warehousing, assembling, packaging, and light manufacturing activities, RAK Investment Authority free zone offers warehouses in its free zone and non-free zone. It includes security, drainage, and fire alarm system, car parking, and staff residency within industrial parks.

3. Offices

Offices in RAKIA are of the following types:

• Executive Offices: Executive offices are ideal for businesses with firm long-term plans for the region. Branch offices, manufacturing units, and services entities with considerable staff strength can benefit from the finest office spaces at competitive rates. Offices in RAKIA are of various sizes (medium or large), depending on the needs of the client.
• Standard Offices: Standard offices are best suited for small businesses looking to start a venture in the region with a minimum capital investment.
• Cubical Offices: Cubical offices are unfurnished partitioned office spaces suitable for small companies, providing a more exclusive work environment.
• Flexi-Desk: RAKIA offers shared workstations for the benefit of start-ups or companies looking to test the market.

Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Media City is a leading entertainment hub for all the companies that have operations in the media industry. It was launched in the year 2006 as an alternative to Dubai Media City and has been providing investment opportunities and benefits for media-oriented business owners and investors. RAK Media City is another RAK Free Trade Zone (RAKFTZ) which is controlled by the RAKFTZ authority. The increasing cost of living in Dubai free zones makes RAK Media City a low-cost alternative. Business owners are attracted towards this RAK FTZ due to its dedication towards providing world-class facilities, great business infrastructure, pre-built offices, and media-related business licenses.

Types of Business Licenses in RAK Media City

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a government initiative to consolidate 2 free zones: RAK Free Trade Zone (RAKFTZ) and RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA). Under the guiding vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, United Arab Emirates Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ is based in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah. The RAK government aims at merging both the RAK free zones along with their 13,000 clients, making it the biggest free zone in the entire UAE.

Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is a government initiative to consolidate 2 free zones: RAK Free Trade Zone (RAKFTZ) and RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA). Under the guiding vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, United Arab Emirates Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ is based in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah. The RAK government aims at merging both the RAK free zones along with their 13,000 clients, making it the biggest free zone in the entire UAE.

Permissible Legal Entities in RAK Free Zone

RAK Economic Zone has 4 types of legal entities under its authorization:

1. Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

One shareholder or single ownership

2. Free Zone Company (FZC)

2 to 5 shareholders or partnership business

3. Branch of a Local Company

For a branch of a company registered in the UAE

4. Branch of a Foreign Company

For a branch of a company registered outside the UAE

RAK Maritime City (RMC) was created as a free zone by Emiri Decree in December 2009. It offers international port facilities and business services for companies seeking an efficient and secure environment for their operations. With different zones for retail, warehousing, cargo handling, industrial production and manufacturing, tank storage and shipbuilding or repairs, RAK Maritime City offers a variety of facilities for businesses from a variety of industries. The free zone seeks to attract businesses as a one-stop-shop with the benefits of a free zone environment, state of art, 21st-century harbor infrastructure within a developed and established port.

Benefits of Setting Up a Company in RAK Maritime City

• 100% company ownership
• 100% tax exemption
• 100% foreign investment
• No customs duties and tariff
• Access to high-end infrastructure and communication
• Access to global market
• 100% repatriation of profits and capital
• Flexible policies for hiring a foreigner
• Easy business formation regulations

Abu Dhabi Business Center was incorporated in March 2006 with an aim to persuade major improvement in the Emirates Aviation sector. SkyCity, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Airports Company is responsible for developing Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ), which is a comprehensive business park in the vicinity of Abu Dhabi International Airport. It offers regular free zone benefits, like, world-class infrastructural facilities, tax exemptions, and 100% foreign company ownership, etc. to investors belonging to Aviation, Airport services, Aerospace, Logistics, Cargo and Freight sectors, apart from the infrastructural benefits like warehousing and logistic units, land plots, and commercial offices for business setup.

Types of Legal Entities in ADAFZ

A business in Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone can be registered as one of the following entities:

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) - Corporate
• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) - Natural
• Branch of a local or foreign company

For a foreigner, it might get difficult to understand the concept of 'free zone,' 'offshore,' and 'mainland' in Dubai. One must have complete knowledge of what each jurisdiction provides to its businesses. Hence, to clear away the confusion, a differentiation table has been prepared.