The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most business-friendly regions in the world, offering a variety of incentives to attract foreign entrepreneurs. Among the most significant advantages is the ability to set up a company in a Free Zone, where foreign investors can enjoy 100% ownership without the need for a local sponsor or partner. Free Zones in the UAE are specially designated areas with their own rules and regulations designed to promote trade, investment, and economic growth.
This article provides a comprehensive list of 45 Free Zones across the UAE, along with a brief overview of what each offers for business owners.
1. Dubai Free Zones
Dubai is home to some of the most popular Free Zones in the UAE, catering to various industries including tech, media, trade, and finance.
1. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- One of the largest and oldest Free Zones in the UAE.
- Ideal for logistics, manufacturing, and trade.
- Located near Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport.
2. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Voted as one of the world’s best Free Zones.
- Focuses on commodities trading, financial services, and gold trading.
3. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
- Located next to Dubai International Airport.
- Specializes in aviation, electronics, and technology companies.
4. Dubai Internet City (DIC)
- A hub for IT, telecommunications, and digital services.
- Attracts top tech companies like Microsoft and Google.
5. Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Focuses on media, advertising, publishing, and broadcasting industries.
6. Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
- A hub for tech startups, IT, and research-based industries.
- Offers modern infrastructure and smart city technologies.
7. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- A global financial hub with a focus on banking, asset management, and insurance.
8. Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
- A dedicated Free Zone for healthcare services and medical professionals.
9. Dubai South Free Zone
- Located near Al Maktoum Airport.
- Perfect for aviation, logistics, and e-commerce businesses.
10. Meydan Free Zone
- Primarily supports startups and SMEs in a variety of sectors including IT, trade, and finance.
11. Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)
- Specializes in education and training, attracting universities and vocational institutions.
12. Dubai Science Park (DSP)
- Focuses on science, research, and development in healthcare and pharmaceuticals.
13. International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Offers a variety of business licenses for international companies.
14. Dubai Design District (d3)
- A creative hub for design, fashion, and luxury industries.
15. Dubai Gold and Diamond Park
- Ideal for businesses involved in the trading and manufacturing of precious metals and jewelry.
2. Abu Dhabi Free Zones
Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, also offers several Free Zones focused on finance, industry, and technology.
16. Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD)
- Offers world-class infrastructure for logistics, manufacturing, and trade.
- Located near Khalifa Port.
17. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- A major financial hub for banking, fintech, and asset management.
18. Masdar City Free Zone
- A sustainable city focused on renewable energy and cleantech industries.
19. Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone (ADAFZ)
- A prime location for aviation, logistics, and trade companies.
20. Twofour54 Free Zone
- Aimed at media and entertainment industries.
- Attracts companies involved in film, television, and digital content.
21. ZonesCorp
- Supports large-scale industrial and manufacturing companies.
- Provides excellent industrial infrastructure for heavy industries.
22. Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC)
- Focuses on maritime businesses, logistics, and shipping.
3. Sharjah Free Zones
Sharjah offers a variety of Free Zones catering to both small and large businesses.
23. Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)
- Located near Sharjah International Airport.
- Focuses on trade, logistics, and light manufacturing.
24. Hamriyah Free Zone
- Specializes in industrial and manufacturing sectors.
- Offers deep-water access for shipping and logistics companies.
25. Sharjah Media City (Shams)
- Perfect for media, marketing, and entertainment businesses.
26. Sharjah Publishing City (SPC)
- The world’s first Free Zone dedicated to publishing and printing industries.
27. Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
- A hub for research and development in technology and innovation.
4. Northern Emirates Free Zones
The northern emirates, including Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah, provide Free Zones with cost-effective solutions for businesses.
28. Ajman Free Zone
- Located in Ajman, ideal for SMEs and startups in trade, services, and manufacturing.
29. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
- A versatile Free Zone for businesses in manufacturing, trade, and services.
- Offers competitive costs and streamlined registration.
30. Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ)
- Cost-effective for small businesses and startups in trade, logistics, and services.
31. RAK Maritime City Free Zone
- A maritime hub for shipping, logistics, and port-based businesses.
5. Fujairah Free Zones
Fujairah is known for its strategic location on the eastern coast of the UAE, providing access to international shipping routes.
32. Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ)
- Offers excellent logistics for companies involved in maritime, trade, and industry.
33. Fujairah Creative City Free Zone
- Aimed at media, advertising, and creative industries.
6. Specialized Free Zones in the UAE
Several Free Zones across the UAE cater to niche industries like media, technology, and logistics.
34. Dubai Outsource City
- Dedicated to outsourcing and business process management industries.
35. Dubai Maritime City
- Specializes in the maritime industry, providing infrastructure for shipbuilding and logistics.
36. Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)
- A hub for universities, vocational institutions, and research organizations.
37. Dubai Production City (DPC)
- Focuses on publishing, production, and media businesses.
38. Dubai Studio City
- A dedicated zone for media production, including film, TV, and music studios.
39. International Humanitarian City (IHC)
- A logistics hub for humanitarian organizations and aid distribution.
40. Gold and Diamond Park (Dubai)
- Tailored for businesses involved in gold, diamond, and jewelry trade.
41. International Media Production Zone (IMPZ)
- Supports businesses in media production, including printing and publishing.
42. Dubai TechnoPark
- Focuses on technology, science, and industrial development.
43. Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech)
- A hub for biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
44. Dubai Textile City
- Ideal for textile trading companies.
45. RAK Investment Authority (RAKIA)
- Offers facilities for industrial and commercial businesses, with a focus on investment opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Free Zone for Your Business
The UAE’s diverse network of Free Zones provides entrepreneurs with numerous opportunities to start and grow their businesses with 100% foreign ownership. Whether you’re in tech, media, logistics, or manufacturing, there’s a Free Zone in the UAE designed to meet your business needs.
By choosing the right Free Zone, you can benefit from tax exemptions, world-class infrastructure, and simplified business setup processes, making the UAE an ideal place to launch your company.
