What is an FZE Company in the UAE?

The UAE has emerged as one of the top choices in the world to start a business. In 2024 alone, the country attracted AED 167.6 billion in foreign investment, making it the second-largest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) destination globally. Investors choose the UAE due to its strategic location between East and West, strong infrastructure, and business-friendly environment.

One of the major reasons for the success of the country as a business hub is the presence of Free Zones. Around 46 Free Zones are present across the UAE, offering benefits such as:

• Zero customs duties
• No corporate or personal tax
• 100% foreign ownership
• Full repatriation of profits

A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is a type of business structure that allows a single owner (an individual or a corporate entity) to set up a company within one of the country’s free zones. Unlike mainland businesses, FZE provides full ownership rights, eliminating the requirement for a local sponsor or partner.

Each free zone authority governs FZEs under its own regulations and sets the rules for company formation. Authorities also decide the minimum capital requirement, which usually ranges from AED 50,000 to AED 150,000 depending on the free zone.

This makes it particularly appealing to solo entrepreneurs and foreign investors who want to retain complete control of their business.

Characteristics and Benefits of an FZE in the UAE

FZEs give entrepreneurs and investors maximum flexibility while keeping compliance simple. The following key characteristics and benefits make FZEs a popular choice for both startups and established businesses:

• Limited Liability: In an FZE, the shareholders’ liability is limited to the capital invested in the company.
• Tax Benefits: Most of the free zones offer exemptions from import and export duties and zero corporate and personal income tax. Traditionally, they also offered 0% corporate tax. But since June 2023, the UAE Corporate Tax Law applies. Most free zone companies still pay 0% on qualifying income, while non-qualifying income may face 9% tax.
• Fast and Simple Business Setup: Registering an FZE is an easy process. It also requires minimal paperwork, as compared to other businesses.
• Repatriation of Profits: Owners can send 100% of their profits and capital back home without restrictions.
• Office Options: Based on business needs, different office options like shared office, flexi-desk, or private office spaces are available.
• Privacy and Confidentiality– Free zones ensure strong privacy and confidentiality in company ownership and business operations.
• Visa Eligibility- The company can sponsor visas for employees, the owner, and family members. This makes it easier to attract global talent. The office size determines the number of visas. For instance, flexi desks may allow 1-3 visas, while larger offices allow more.
• World-Class Infrastructure: Free zones boast warehouses, ports, modern offices, and logistics facilities to support businesses of all types.
• Wide Range of Business Activities: Free zones support various industries, ranging from trading and consulting to e-commerce and media.
• Different Types of Licenses: Free zones provide different licenses to match business needs. Businesses can choose a Trade License, Service/Consultancy License, or Industrial License based on their activity.

Did You Know: An FZE converts into an FZC (Free Zone Company) when additional shareholders join.

When approached step-by-step, setting up a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) in the UAE is a straightforward and structured process. Here’s a clear breakdown of the entire process to get you started:

Step 1: Choose the Right Free Zone

• Based on your business activity (services, trading, media, logistics, etc.), research different free zones.
• Compare visa quotes, costs, facilities, and proximity to markets.
• Choose the free zone that suits your industry and business needs.

Step 2: Select Business Activity & Name

• Decide on the business activity you wish to set up. Some common business activities in the UAE are consultancy, import/export, and e-commerce.
• Make sure your chosen business activity is permitted in your selected free zone.
• Select a unique company name, following the UAE’s naming guidelines. Avoid offensive terms or religious references.
• The name must end with a legal suffix (e.g., FZE) depending on the free zone.

Step 3: Apply for Initial Approval

• Fill and submit an application form with your chosen activity and proposed company details.
• Provide passport copies of the manager(s) and shareholder(s).
• Wait for approval from the free zone authority before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Submit Documents and Pay Fees

• Prepare and submit the required documents, like:
  1. Proof of residence/utility bill
  2. Passport copies of shareholders and directors
  3. Business plan (in some free zones)
  4. Bank reference letter (if required)
• Pay the license, registration, and setup fees as prescribed by the authority.

Step 5: Receive Trade License and Start Operations

• Authorities issue the business license once they verify your documents and clear the fees.
• Open a corporate bank account in the UAE.
• If required, apply for visas for yourself, employees, or dependents.
• Start operations and enjoy the benefits of operating in a UAE free zone.

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Submit a specific set of documents for verification and approval to set up an FZE in the UAE. Having the following documents ready helps speed up the registration and licensing process.

Note: Free zones may ask for additional documents based on the business activity, company structure, or shareholder nationality.

Establishing a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) in the UAE involves several cost components. These costs depend on the business activity, specific free zone, and package you choose. Below is a breakdown of common cost categories, along with estimated pricing:

It is important to note that established free zones such as DMCC typically have higher fees, especially for office space and licensing. Meanwhile, emerging zones like Sharjah or Ajman often offer more affordable options.

Choosing the right free zone is a crucial step in setting up your FZE. Below is a quick look at major free-zone hubs across the UAE:

• Dubai Free Zones (DMCC, IFZA, DAFZA)

Dubai houses some of the UAE’s most dynamic free zones. The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) stands out as a global leader. In the first half of 2024 alone, DMCC welcomed around 1,023 companies, with the total number of companies exceeding 25,000. Moreover, the region accounted for 15% of all Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and 7% of the emirate’s GDP.

Beyond DMCC, other popular Dubai free zones such as IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) and DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority) continue to attract SMEs, startups, and international investors. The attractiveness of business setup in Dubai free zone can be attributed to its flexible packages, 100% foreign ownership, and world-class infrastructure.

For instance, in January 2025, IFZA announced a strategic partnership with RAKBANK to provide seamless business and financial solutions to its partners.

• Abu Dhabi Free Zones (ADGM)

With the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), Abu Dhabi is rapidly strengthening its position as a global business and financial hub. In 2023, the ADGM witnessed a 32% surge in company registrations, bringing the total to around 1,825 licensed firms. This was supported by private equity funds, asset managers, and investment firms setting up regional headquarters.

Additionally, ADGM recorded unprecedented growth in 2024, with assets under management (AUMs) surging 245%. It also became home to 134 asset and fund managers overseeing 166 funds.

This increased its appeal among global giants like global giants such as Marshall Wace, SS&C Financial Services, Morgan Stanley, and BlackRock, among others.

•  Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah Free Zones

The northern emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, have emerged as a prominent cost-effective hub for FZE setups in the UAE. They enjoy high popularity among startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurs seeking lower setup costs without compromising on business benefits.

For instance, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is home to over 14,000 companies from more than 100 industries.

Sharjah hosts various zones like the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPCFZ) and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone). Due to their proximity to Sharjah International Airport, these zones offer logistics advantages. Meanwhile, Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), one of the most cost-effective free zones, serves over 9,000 companies of diverse sectors from 185 countries.

After setting up an FZE, ensuring ongoing compliance is equally important to maintain good legal standing and avoid penalties. FZE companies must fulfill several post-setup compliance obligations, such as:

• Annual License Renewal: Every FZE must renew its trade license annually with the respective free zone authority to continue operations. Renewal fees vary by free zone and license type.
• VAT Registration and Filings: If your annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000, you are required to register for Value Added Tax (VAT) with the Federal Tax Authority and file returns regularly.

However, businesses with a turnover above AED 187,500 can also choose voluntary registration to claim input tax benefits.

• Maintaining Financial Records and Audits: FZE must maintain proper accounting records. In many free zones, audited financial statements are mandatory for submission during license renewal.
• Visa Renewals for Employees and Investors: Companies must manage the periodic renewal of residence visas for business owners, employees, and dependents to ensure legal residency status in the UAE.

Depending on their goals, entrepreneurs can choose from different structures while starting a business in the UAE. Some popular business structures in the country are:

• Free Zone Establishments (FZE)
• Free Zone Companies (FZC)
• Mainland Companies
• Offshore Companies.

All these company types in the UAE offer limited liability protection.

The table below highlights the key differences between these business structures, helping entrepreneurs choose the model that best fits their business goals.

In the UAE, an FZE is a gateway to global markets, tax advantages, and operational freedom. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a global investor, an FZE offers the perfect balance of flexibility, control, and credibility. This makes it one of the smartest ways to launch and grow in the UAE’s thriving economy.