Complete List of Free Zones in Dubai: Features, Costs, & Setup Guide

Choosing the right free zone depends on your business activity, size, and expansion plans. Below is a detailed look at some of the most prominent free zones in Dubai, highlighting their key features, costs, and special advantages

1. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

DMCC is one of the world’s largest commodities trading hubs, specializing in gold, diamonds, energy, and other global commodities. It is known for its strong infrastructure, networking ecosystem, and flexible licensing. Establishing a business in DMCC is ideal for trading companies seeking a prestigious Dubai address, as it supports virtual offices and dual licensing.

In the first half of 2025, DMCC welcomed over 1,100 new companies, marking a significant increase in international investment. Notably, company registrations from the United Kingdom rose by over 23% year-on-year, bringing the total number of British companies in the district to nearly 2,200. Similarly, Türkiye recorded robust growth, with a 22% year-on-year increase, and close to 700 Turkish companies now operate within DMCC.

With its thriving trade ecosystem, DMCC remains the go-to choice for global traders looking to expand their footprint in Dubai’s dynamic economy.

2. Jebel AIi Free Zone (JAFZA)

Established in 1985, JAFZA is a premier logistics and industrial hub, strategically located near Jebel Ali Port and Dubai International Airport. It caters to a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and trading. Check out the activity list for JAFZA Free Zone from this blog- JAFZA Activity List for Businesses.

In May 2025, JAFZA celebrated its 40th anniversary with record-breaking trade volumes of AED 697.3 billion over the past year, underscoring its pivotal role in global trade. Additionally, India’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, Omega Seiki Mobility, invested AED 91.75 million to establish an electric vehicle assembly plant within JAFZA. This highlights the zone’s appeal to clean mobility solutions.

Moreover, as you move from trade to manufacturing, JAFZA stands as a cornerstone for industrial and logistics excellence in the region.

3. Dubai Internet City (DIC)

Established in 2000, DIC is a leading tech and innovation hub, fostering a collaborative environment for IT companies, startups, and digital enterprises. It provides state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant ecosystem for technological advancement.

In April 2025, DIC showcased its commitment to technological innovation by participating in GITEX Asia, held in Singapore, to highlight its role in shaping the future of technology and innovation in the Middle East.

If you’re venturing into the tech space, DIC offers the perfect platform to innovate and grow within Dubai’s digital ecosystem.

4. Dubai Media City (DMC)

DMC, established in 2002, is a premier media and creative industries hub that offers a dynamic environment for media professionals, content creators, and advertising agencies. Setting up a business in Dubai Media City (DMC) provides world-class infrastructure and a collaborative community.

Additionally, in May 2025, DMC hosted the Dubai Lynx Awards, celebrating excellence in creative communications across the region.

For businesses shaping the region’s creative future, DMC offers unmatched opportunities to collaborate, create, and connect.

5. Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Set up in 2004, DSO is a technology park that supports innovation and entrepreneurship in the fields of electronics, microelectronics, and IT. It offers integrated living and working spaces for tech companies and startups.

In January 2025, DSO was recognized as the “Data Centre of the Month” for its significant growth in data centre infrastructure. It houses four operational data centres with a fifth under construction, slated for completion by the end of 2025.

Furthermore, DSO continues to attract tech-driven startups and innovators seeking a smart city environment built for the future.

6. Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC)

Established in 2004, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a leading global financial hub strategically located in the heart of Dubai. Spanning 110 hectares, DIFC serves as a bridge connecting the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region with global markets. It provides a platform for financial institutions, professional services firms, and innovative startups to operate within a world-class regulatory environment.

In the first half of 2025, DIFC experienced a 32% increase in company registrations, adding 1,081 new firms, including asset managers, hedge funds, and family offices. This growth brought the total number of active companies within the financial hub to 7,700, marking a 25% increase compared to the previous year. 

For enterprises focused on finance and investment, DIFC represents the heart of Dubai’s global financial landscape.

7. Dubai South

Dubai South is a strategic urban development focusing on aviation, logistics, and residential communities. Established in 2006, it encompasses the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub and Al Maktoum International Airport.

In September 2025, Dubai South reported a 15% growth in business aviation movements, with 9,753 private jet movements recorded in the first half of 2025. This reaffirms Al Maktoum International Airport’s position as the leading airport for international business aviation movements in the Middle East.

As Dubai’s gateway to global trade and aviation, Dubai South is where connectivity meets opportunity.

8. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Founded in 1996, DAFZA is a premium free zone offering a strategic location adjacent to Dubai International Airport, catering to a wide range of industries, including aviation, logistics, and technology. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it launched incentive packages to support companies operating within the free zone, aiming to enhance business continuity and attract new investments.

Besides that, DAFZA bridges global markets by combining world-class infrastructure with proximity to one of the busiest airports worldwide.

9. Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)

Established in 2002, Dubai Healthcare City is a specialized free zone focusing on healthcare services, medical education, and research. It houses over 160 medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers. 

In August 2025, DHCC launched a new medical research center in collaboration with international universities, aiming to advance medical research and innovation in the region.

Thus, DHCC continues to redefine healthcare innovation, offering a regulated environment for global medical excellence.

10. Dubai Design District (d3)

Established in 2015, d3 is a vibrant community dedicated to the design, fashion, and luxury industries, providing a collaborative space for creatives and entrepreneurs. In November 2025, d3 is set to host the 11th edition of the d3 Awards during Dubai Design Week. It will welcome architects, designers, and creative practitioners from around the world to showcase innovative designs.

In summary, d3 embodies the creative pulse of Dubai—where art, fashion, and innovation converge to shape tomorrow’s design culture.

11. International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)

Set up in 2018, IFZA is a cost-effective free zone offering a wide range of business activities, making it an attractive option for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and startups. It continues to expand its offerings, providing flexible licensing options and support services to facilitate business setup in Dubai.

Consequently, IFZA remains the preferred choice for startups and SMEs seeking affordability, flexibility, and ease of business setup in Dubai.

12. Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone, established in 2015, is a versatile business hub offering a range of office and warehouse solutions and caters to various industries, including logistics and services. The free zone regularly introduces favorable initiatives to attract businesses, boosting its appeal among entrepreneurs to form a company in the Meydan free zone.

Meydan Free Zone is redefining convenience for entrepreneurs looking for a flexible and cost-efficient business environment in Dubai.

These are the most crucial and high-profile free zones in Dubai, serving as hubs for finance, trading, technology, media, healthcare, and creative industries. In fact, Dubai houses over 30 free zones as of 2025, each catering to specific sectors and boasting specific characteristics.

Other free zones in Dubai include:

• Dubai International Academic City (DIAC): Higher education and research
• Dubai Science Park (DSP): Science, research, and innovation
• Dubai Textile City: Textile and garment trade
• Dubai Maritime City: Shipbuilding and maritime services
• Dubai Aviation City: Aviation and aerospace
• TwoFour54: Media and entertainment in Abu Dhabi, but attracting Dubai-based companies as well
• Dubai Carpet Free Zone: Carpet and textile trade

These additional free zones, though smaller or more niche, provide sector-specific infrastructure, flexible licensing, and strategic locations for startups and SMEs looking to establish a presence in Dubai.

Not sure which niche free zone suits your business? SafeLedger can guide you through Dubai’s specialized zones for optimal setup.

Choosing the right free zone is critical for your business’s growth, efficiency, and compliance. Consider the following factors before making a decision:

• Business Activity / License Compatibility: Ensure the free zone offers licenses aligned with your specific business activity, trading, services, industrial, tech, or media.
• Cost Breakdown: Compare fees for licensing, office space, visa allocations, renewals, and additional services to plan your budget effectively.
• Visa Quotas / Immigration Support: Check how many visas are included, the process for employee sponsorship, and additional immigration support.
• Office / Warehouse / Land Availability: Assess options from flexi-desks and co-working spaces to warehouses or land plots, depending on your business needs.
• Location & Logistics: Consider proximity to airports, seaports, highways, and business hubs to optimize operations and supply chain efficiency.
• Reputation, Ecosystem & Networking Advantages: Choose free zones with strong industry ecosystems, networking opportunities, and a pool of similar businesses for collaborations.
• Regulatory / Legal Support & Ease of Doing Business: Evaluate the simplicity of licensing processes, document approvals, and ongoing compliance support.
• Future Proofing: Look for zones that allow business expansion, dual licensing, and trading in the mainland to accommodate future growth.
• Industry-Specific Incentives: Some free zones offer perks for sectors like fintech, media, healthcare, or logistics.
• Ownership & Shareholding Flexibility: Check whether 100% foreign ownership is allowed and the rules for multiple shareholders.
• Banking Access: Assess the ease of opening corporate accounts and the availability of banking partners within the zone.
• IT & Telecom Infrastructure: Ensure reliable high-speed internet, cloud services, and tech support for digital operations.
• Flexibility in Business Activities: Ability to add or change business activities without switching licenses.
• Co-Working vs. Dedicated Space Options: Consider whether you need a full-time office, co-working setup, or hybrid solution.
• Support Services & PRO Assistance: Check for visa processing, legal guidance, attestation, and document handling services.
• Tax & Financial Advisory Support: Some free zones provide consultation on VAT, corporate tax, auditing, and accounting services.
• Access to Funding & Incubators: Availability of accelerators, incubators, and investor networks to support startups and growing businesses.
• Exit & Liquidation Procedures: Understand the ease and cost of closing, selling, or transferring the business if required in the future.

Overall, selecting a free zone based on these factors ensures operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, compliance, and long-term growth for your business in Dubai.

Confused about which free zone fits your business needs? Contact SafeLedger to get tailored recommendations.

Setting up a business in a Dubai free zone follows a streamlined yet structured process, designed to make incorporation fast and efficient while ensuring regulatory compliance. Common steps followed for setting up a company in Dubai free zones include:

1. Business Activity & Free Zone Selection: Identify your industry and choose a free zone that aligns with your business needs.
2. Name Reservation & Initial Approval: Submit your proposed company name and receive preliminary approval from the free zone authority.
3. Document Submission: Prepare and submit required documents for licensing, visas, and bank account opening.
4. License Issuance: Once approved, the free zone issues the business license based on the chosen activity.
5. Office Allocation: Secure physical office space, coworking desk, or virtual office, depending on free zone requirements.
6. Visa & Immigration Formalities: Apply for employee and shareholder visas through the free zone’s immigration system.
7. Additional Approvals (if applicable): Certain free zones, like DIFC or DHCC, require regulator approvals or sector-specific compliance checks.

Key Documents Required

Before you start the incorporation process, it’s important to gather all necessary paperwork. Core documents required in most free zones include:

• Passport copies of shareholders and managers
• Proof of address (residential or office lease)
• Business plan (for some specialized zones)
• Board resolution or shareholder agreement (for corporate entities)
• NOC from sponsor (if UAE resident)

Timeline Estimates

Setting up a company in a Dubai free zone can vary depending on the zone, business activity, and licensing type. Understanding typical timelines helps you plan effectively, avoid delays, and get your business operational as quickly as possible.

• Name reservation & initial approval: 3-7 days
• Document submission & license issuance: 7-11 days for standard setups
• Visa processing: 2-4 weeks, depending on approvals and the free zone

Zone Specific Regulations and Additional Approvals

Each free zone has its own regulatory nuances and sometimes requires additional approvals. This section highlights what to watch for in different zones.

• DIFC: Requires DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority) approval for financial businesses
• DHCC: Medical licenses require MOH approval for healthcare entities
• JAFZA / DMCC: Industrial or trading licenses may need customs registration

Being aware of these zone-specific requirements helps prevent unexpected delays and ensures that your business setup proceeds smoothly.

SafeLedger simplifies every step of free zone incorporation, ranging from choosing the right zone to visa processing. We help ensure compliance, minimize delays, and provide end-to-end support so businesses can start operations smoothly in Dubai’s thriving free zones. 

Below is an overview to help compare costs among Dubai’s top free zones:

Dubai’s free zones are constantly evolving to attract investors, support businesses, and adapt to global economic and technological trends. Understanding recent updates, emerging trends, and future changes is crucial for anyone planning to set up in Dubai. Below are the key points to note:

1. Recent Updates

Dubai has introduced several initiatives and regulations to simplify business setup, improve efficiency, and attract global investors:

• One Freezone Passport: Businesses licensed in one Dubai free zone can now operate across other free zones without obtaining additional licenses. This reduces bureaucracy and allows companies to expand faster across multiple zones.
• Partnership Between DIEZ and German-Emirati Joint Council (AHK): Designed to attract German companies in sectors like Industry 4.0, sustainability, smart manufacturing, and digital trade, providing faster setup support and networking opportunities.
• Law No. (14) of 2025 for Engineering Consultancies: Introduces comprehensive licensing, operational, and compliance standards to improve service quality and accountability within engineering consultancy firms.

2. Emerging Trends

Dubai’s free zones are responding to changing business needs, global economic shifts, and technological innovation. Key trends include:

• Growth in E-commerce and AI-Powered Logistics: Online shopping and cross-border trade are driving higher demand for flexible logistics, warehousing, and fast delivery solutions within free zones.
• Expansion of Dual Licensing Opportunities: Businesses can now operate in both free zone and mainland markets under a single entity, enabling broader market reach without creating multiple companies.
• Support for SMEs: Reduced setup costs, simplified license renewals, and flexible office options are encouraging small and medium enterprises to establish quickly and cost-efficiently.

3. Future Changes

Several upcoming policies and economic measures will impact companies operating in Dubai free zones:

• Implementation of 15% Minimum Top-Up Tax: From January 2025, multinational companies with global revenue over €750 million are subject to a 15% minimum corporate tax, aligning Dubai with OECD global tax standards.
• Potential Corporate Tax Incentives: The UAE government is considering introducing R&D tax credits and incentives for high-value employment activities, aimed at encouraging innovation and economic diversification.
• Increased Focus on Digital Compliance and Sector-Specific Approvals: Free zones are digitizing processes, which in turn is enhancing regulatory oversight to streamline operations. This decision affects particularly financial, healthcare, and tech sectors.

In the end, it’s crucial to take note of the latest updates and trends going on around the nation.

4. Key Takeaways for Investors

• Dubai’s free zones continue to offer a flexible, investor-friendly environment.
• Staying updated on recent regulations and trends can help businesses maximize cost efficiency, expand internationally, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• These updates highlight Dubai’s commitment to being a global hub for innovation, trade, and entrepreneurship.

In summary, Dubai’s free zones provide a strategic gateway for businesses to grow locally and internationally. With flexible licensing, tax incentives, and industry-focused ecosystems, they cater to startups, SMEs, and global corporations alike. By understanding the features, costs, and latest trends of each zone, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions and build a strong, future-ready presence in Dubai’s thriving business landscape.