The UAE consistently sets a strong benchmark for establishing economic norms. The zero-tax policy, along with straightforward laws and regulations, sets global benchmarks for both online and offline enterprises, including LLCs and import/export companies. The UAE has effectively harnessed the concept of free zones to enhance the flow of commerce into the mainland through the establishment of free zone companies. One of the most remarkable aspects is the multitude of benefits available for establishing a business in a UAE Free Zone, provided you select the right structure and jurisdiction.
Now is the perfect time to establish a free zone corporation in the UAE. Throughout the years, the UAE has established itself as a prime destination for entrepreneurs eager to thrive in the business world. The UAE stands out as one of the premier destinations for launching a business worldwide.
Additionally, the UAE has reached numerous significant milestones over the years. The IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2021 places the UAE as the ninth most competitive economy globally. Additionally, it holds the sixth position in the Europe, Middle East, and North Africa regions. The UAE was one of the first nations to bounce back from the epidemic.
The government has made significant strides to adopt innovative strategies to keep pace with the dynamic business landscape and position itself as a premier commercial hub. The UAE has created free zones specifically designed to attract international investors, offering a range of enticing privileges for business establishment.
Discover the ins and outs of owning a business in the UAE’s free zone areas. Explore the numerous benefits that come with free zone businesses and uncover the costs associated with obtaining a UAE free zone license. This is your gateway to starting a venture in one of the world’s most lucrative markets—UAE.
This article will teach you all you need to know about the advantages of Business setup in UAE Free Zone.
What is a Free Zone?
Free zones are designated areas within the UAE where the exchange of products, services, and commodities occurs without the constraints of strict customs regulations. These special economic zones aim to support expatriate investors in the UAE. These free zones offer foreign investors complete ownership, thereby boosting international trade. Additionally, a standout advantage of UAE free zones is the affordable cost of setting up a business.
Established in 1985, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) stands as the UAE’s pioneering free zone. This free zone plays a crucial role in driving the country’s economic growth, establishing itself as the flagship free zone of Dubai Ports (DP) World. Strategically located close to the seventh-largest container port, Jebel Ali Sea Port. This creates an ideal environment for the seamless import and export of commodities.
Many free zones concentrate on the commercial, service, and industrial sectors. In the UAE, you’ll find free zones that rival JAFZA, catering to specific businesses and sectors. Examples of these jurisdictions are:
- Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
- Sharjah Research Technology And Innovation Park (SRTIP)
- Fujairah Creative City Free Zone (FCC)
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- International Free-zone Authority Dubai (IFZA)
- Meydan Free Zone (MFZ)
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- Sharjah Media City Free-zone (SHAMS)
- Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
- Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)
The UAE boasts more than 46 free zones at present. More than 150,000 businesses thrive in free zones across the country. The number is on the rise, with the UAE launching new free zones almost annually.
The free zones in the UAE and Dubai operate under a distinct framework of laws and regulations tailored to each individual free zone. The dedicated authority for free zones in Dubai expertly manages and regulates the various activities within these zones. These jurisdictions also function independently of federal regulations and Ministry of Labor constraints.
In the UAE, free zones are frequently associated with a port. Free zones offer an ideal opportunity for freelancers looking to launch their own ventures without the need to tie themselves to a single corporation.
Dubai Free Zone Company Benefits
To begin with, free zones in Dubai are defined as specific geographical areas within a country. In these areas, the exchange of products, services, and commodities can occur seamlessly, free from cumbersome customs procedures. Many businesses operating in Dubai’s free zones enjoy minimal tax rates or may even be entirely tax-exempt.
This fosters economic growth and enhances the potential for profitable ventures without the burden of tax obligations and capital income to government authorities. Every free zone in Dubai Mainland operates as a distinct entity, governed by its own dedicated free zone authority. This governing body oversees, registers, and issues licenses within the confines of the free zone.
Dubai’s free zone business setup was established to function as international business hubs for companies engaging in trade beyond the UAE, as they were initially restricted from operating within the broader UAE territory. While many free zone enterprises started out focusing on import and re-export, today, a significant number conduct their business within the UAE and GCC through local distributors and dealers.
Setting up a business in Dubai’s free zone offers an ideal environment for industry establishment, featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure, exemptions from duties and taxes, excellent business prospects, adaptable government policies, and amenities that simplify the business operation process.
To conclude, business investors get the following free zone benefits:
1.100% foreign ownership of business
Foreign investors in free zones may own 100% of their businesses.
2. 100% Repatriation of capital and profits
Companies operating in free zones may return all of their revenues to their native nation. This allows them to transfer 100% of their money to their nation of origin without any conditions.
3. 0% Corporate Tax
According to UAE legislation, firms who establish a company in the UAE are not required to pay corporation tax on their business earnings, allowing you to retain 100% of your revenues.
4. 0% import or export tax
Unlike the mainland, business setup in UAE Free Zone are free of all customs duties.
5. Strategic location:
Dubai boasts world-class telecommunications, pioneering financial interconnections, cutting-edge industrial infrastructure, an e-governance system, and service sectors. The position of the free zones allows for very cost-effective living.
6. Global Connectivity:
Dubai boasts a multicultural culture and offers opportunities to engage with a worldwide business community.
7. Range of business activities:
Free zones provide you the opportunity to engage in a variety of commercial operations.
8. Time-efficient process:
The whole procedure of acquiring a license is rather quick and simple.
9. Convenient Registration:
Dubai allows you to register from the convenience of your home. You may email all needed papers to the free zone without physically being there for submission.
10. No Currency Restrictions:
One of the most significant advantages of a free zone firm in Dubai is that there are no currency restrictions. Currency regulations are government-imposed restrictions on the exchange of foreign currency. There are no currency limitations in the UAE’s free zones. This allows for more convenient banking transactions.
11. No logistical Issues:
The UAE’s free zones include multiple warehouses as well as ample office space. Free zones in the United Arab Emirates are ideal for SMEs and start-ups. Furthermore, the steps for starting a corporation in a free zone are simple and uncomplicated. Compared to other nations, you may finish license requirements quickly. Furthermore, the immigration facilities in UAE-free zones are efficient, saving time.
Connect with ExpressPRO Business Setup In UAE Free Zone
Business setup in UAE Free Zone is certainly one of the smartest decisions an entrepreneur can pursue. The UAE free zones offer a range of benefits for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in the country. The benefits of establishing a free zone firm in Dubai significantly surpass any minor drawbacks.
Numerous agencies dedicate themselves to identifying the most dependable local sponsors that perfectly align with the company’s goals and ambitions. ExpressPRO Business Setup stands out as the leading agency in Dubai.
ExpressPRO stands out as a leading business setup company in the UAE Free Zone. For over two decades, we have been dedicated to helping entrepreneurs launch and sustain their businesses across the country. We guarantee a smooth establishment process for your company. Our expert advisers will guide you every step of the way, from registering your company to understanding the costs associated with a free zone license and obtaining the necessary approvals from the authorities.