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Dubai Free Zone Visa Cost: 2026 Fees Breakdown

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Dubai Free Zone Visa Cost: 2026 Fees Breakdown
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Business Professionals are attracted to Dubai for its easy business setup, residency options, and transparent Dubai Free Zone Visa costs. These zones offer 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, & modern infrastructure, making them ideal for starting a business in Dubai. A Dubai Free Zone Visa allows individuals to live and work, and to legally operate a business within the designated Free Zone.

Many Indian nationals search for the cost of the Dubai Free Zone Visa to plan relocation, employment, or business setup in Dubai. As a result, applicants need a clear understanding of the fee structure, visa charges, processing costs, and family sponsorship expenses in Dubai.

The advantages of a Free Zone Visa extend beyond residency, including:

These advantages make it a preferred option for professionals and business owners seeking stability and growth in Dubai. This blog explains the Dubai Free Zone visa, including its cost, benefits, and eligibility requirements.

Cost of Free Zone Visa in Dubai

The Dubai Free Zone visa cost depends on the type of visa, the region, and additional services such as family sponsorship and health insurance. You must consider these costs when planning relocation, employment, or business setup in the UAE or Dubai. This section breaks down government fees, visa types, and other related expenses to give a complete idea of the investment required.

1. Government and Mandatory Costs

Key mandatory costs for a Free Zone Visa Dubai include:

  • Entry permit fee: AED 800 – 1,500
  • Visa application fee: AED 500 – 1,000
  • Emirates ID issuance: AED 270 – 370
  • Medical fitness test: AED 300 – 500
  • Visa stamping & processing: AED 500 – 1,000

2. Estimated Cost by Visa Type

The table below shows the approximate cost range for each visa type to help plan your budget:

Visa TypeCost Range (AED)Notes
Investor Visa 3,500 – 7,500+ Varies by Free Zone
Employment Visa 3,000 – 6,000 Includes processing
Dependent Visa 3,000 – 5,000 Per family member
Freelancer Visa 6,000 – 15,000 Some Free Zones offer permit packages

3. Additional Costs to Plan For

In addition to the main visa fees, applicants should consider extra costs when applying for a Dubai Free Zone Visa. These include the following charges:

  • Change of Status & Cancellation Fees: The UAE government charges additional fees for changes to visa types. For example, converting an employment visa to an investor visa or canceling an existing visa is subject to additional fees. These fees vary by Free Zone and visa type, so applicants should factor them into their budget planning.
  • Health Insurance (Mandatory in UAE): All visa holders in Dubai must have valid health insurance. Free Zones usually require applicants to purchase coverage through approved providers. Costs depend on age, coverage type, and number of dependents. This ensures access to medical care while living in Dubai.
  • Establishment / Sponsorship Card Fees: Companies in Free Zones must issue establishment or sponsorship cards for visa processing. These cards link the visa holder to the Free Zone company. Each Free Zone sets its own fees, and you must pay them to secure legal employment and residency.

These price details give applicants a clear view of the investment required to set up a business in the Dubai Free Zone.

Popular Dubai Free Zones and Visa Cost Comparison

Dubai has several Free Zones that are popular among investors, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. Each Free Zone offers different advantages, and the Dubai Free Zone Visa cost can vary depending on the location, license package, and visa quota. Comparing these Free Zones helps business owners choose the option that best suits their needs.

Some of the well-known Free Zones include Dubai Silicon Oasis, Meydan, DMCC, IFZA, and RAKEZ. Costs can differ based on factors such as the type of license, number of visas included, and office requirements.

A Comparison Table for Example: 

Free ZoneLicense + 1 Visa Cost (AED)Visa Cost Only (AED)Office Requirements
IFZA AED 20,000 – 30,000 AED 1,500 – 5,000 Flexi desk / optional physical office
Meydan AED 18,000 – 27,000 AED 4,000 – 6,000 A virtual license is often required (if possible)
RAKEZ AED 14,000 – 18,000 AED 3,800 – 5,000 Office requirements depend on the type of business package you choose
DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) AED 30,000 – 50,000+ AED 4,000 – 7,000 A physical office is often required

This comparison shows how location, license type, and office setup can impact the overall investment. By reviewing these factors, applicants can make informed decisions about which Free Zone fits their business model and budget.

Dubai Free Zone Packages That Include Visas

Many Free Zones offer bundled packages that include both the business license and the Dubai Free Zone Visa. In this context, a bundled package typically provides:

  • Business license: Grants official permission for legal company formation in Dubai Free Zone.
  • Free Zone Visa: Provides residency and work authorization for the owner or employee.
  • Additional services: Covers document processing, Emirates ID issuance, and sometimes office space.

For more details, read our complete guide on what a Free Zone company is in Dubai.

Popular examples of UAE Free Zone include:

  • IFZA: International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) offers all-inclusive packages for investors and entrepreneurs looking to quickly set up a business in Dubai.
  • RAKEZ: Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) provides combined license and visa options with flexible packages for various business types.
  • Meydan Free Zone: Meydan Free Zone caters to startups, freelancers, and small enterprises in Dubai. It offers tailored packages for company formation in Meydan that combine business licensing and visa services in the UAE. It also includes additional support, such as office facilities or virtual office options.

The total cost of these packages depends on additional charges such as Intellectual Property (IP) registration and service fees. IP charges cover trademarks, patents, or copyrights, while service charges include document processing, approvals, and visa facilitation.

These extra costs can significantly affect the overall investment, so applicants should factor them in when comparing package options.

Want cost-efficient packages in Dubai? Manage all your Dubai Free Zone Visa and business setup expenses efficiently in one place with SafeLedger. We assist with tracking government fees, handling visa charges, processing costs, and additional service fees. Contact us today to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average Dubai Free Zone Visa cost for Indian nationals ranges from AED 3,000 to 7,500, depending on the visa type and the Free Zone selected. Investor visas usually cost more than employment or dependent visas. Freelancer visas can also be higher in some Free Zones. Additional fees for processing or office requirements may affect the total cost.

No, health insurance is mandatory in the UAE, but it is not included in the standard Dubai Free Zone Visa cost. Applicants must arrange coverage separately, either through the Free Zone or private insurers. Costs vary depending on age, coverage level, and number of dependents. This ensures access to medical care while residing in Dubai.

Yes, a Dubai Free Zone Visa allows you to sponsor your spouse and children. Each dependent visa incurs additional fees for processing, Emirates ID, and health insurance. Family sponsorship also depends on your visa type, salary, and Free Zone regulations. This makes the visa suitable for long-term residency and family relocation.

A 3‑year Dubai Free Zone Visa is generally more expensive than a 2‑year visa due to additional government and processing fees for the extra year. The difference can vary by Free Zone and visa type. Some Free Zones offer package deals that slightly reduce the per-year cost. Applicants should compare total costs before deciding on the duration.

Hidden fees beyond the standard Dubai Free Zone Visa cost include Emirates ID charges, medical fitness test fees, health insurance, and establishment or sponsorship card fees. Office requirements, document processing, and service charges can also add to the total. Planning for these fees ensures a smooth visa application without unexpected expenses.

Free Zones like IFZA and RAKEZ are often among the more affordable options for the Dubai Free Zone Visa cost, especially for startups and small businesses. Costs vary by package and office requirements, so comparing options helps find the best value. Some zones offer bundled license-and-visa packages that reduce total expenses.

A Dubai Free Zone Visa is typically valid for 2 or 3 years, depending on the Free Zone and visa category. Many applicants choose a 3-year option to reduce renewal frequency, though it may cost slightly more upfront. Renewals also incur government and processing fees.

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Joel Dsouza

About the Author

Joel Dsouza

Joel Dsouza is a Chartered Accountant and compliance specialist with extensive experience advising over 1,000 startups and SMEs on company registration, tax structuring, and regulatory compliance. As a member of ICAI and Co-Founder of Safe Ledger, Joel combines his deep financial expertise with a global perspective to help entrepreneurs navigate complex business environments. Focused on the UAE market, he is dedicated to empowering international and local business owners with clear, practical guidance on company setup, tax optimization, and ongoing compliance making him a trusted advisor for businesses aiming to succeed in the dynamic UAE economy.

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