Free zones in Dubai. The aim of the free zones is to encourage investors from all countries of the world, in addition to facilitating the processes of establishing companies, work procedures, immigration, etc. In this article, we review the most famous free zones in addition to the most frequently asked questions.

Free zones in Dubai
Dubai’s free zones are considered one of the most important economic engines in the emirate, and are a preferred destination for companies and businessmen seeking to invest in the Middle East. These areas have many characteristics and advantages that make them a leading investment destination, and they play a vital role in promoting global trade and promoting economic growth in the region.
Advantages of free zones in Dubai
Free zones are one of the most preferred investment destinations in the world, as they offer a distinctive and convenient business environment that attracts companies and investors from all over the world. These areas are characterized by a set of features that make them an ideal choice for establishing businesses and expanding investments. Let’s take a look at some of these features:
- Tax exemptions: Free zones provide full or partial tax exemptions for companies residing in them, including exemption from income tax, profits tax, and customs taxes, which reduces business costs and increases companies’ profits.
- Customs facilities: Free zones provide easy and smooth customs procedures, which facilitates import and export operations and reduces administrative and bureaucratic procedures.
- Ease of establishment and operation: Free zones provide quick and simple procedures for establishing companies, in addition to fully equipped office space and warehouses, making it easier for investors to start their work quickly and efficiently.
- Advanced infrastructure: Free zones are characterized by advanced infrastructure and modern facilities that effectively support business, including airports, ports, roads, and communications services.
- Access to the regional and global market: Dubai is strategically located on the global trade route, making it easier for companies residing in free zones to access regional and global markets easily.
- Freedom to own property: Free zones allow full ownership of companies residing in them by foreigners without the need for a local partner, which provides more freedom and flexibility in managing the business.
In short, free zones provide an ideal investment environment that combines ease of operation and management with tax exemptions and customs facilities, making them a leading choice for companies wishing to expand their business and achieve success and growth.
What are the most famous free zones in Dubai?
- Dubai South
Dubai South is one of the most important free zones, as Dubai South supports all types of businesses and industries and extends over a large area estimated at about 145 square kilometers.
- Jebel Ali Free Zone
One of the largest free zones in the world, it is distinguished by offering many advantages to investors, for example: complete tax exemption and the right to own the company 100% without an Emirati sponsor partner, which made the Jebel Ali Free Zone the number one zone for investors.
- Dubai Airport Free Zone
It has been one of the most important free zones since its founding, which makes the decision to establish a company there an excellent step, as it supports commercial and industrial businesses and includes major trades in: automobile trade, fashion, telecommunications and information companies, and others.
- Dubai Media City
Dubai Media City is considered the largest free zone in the Middle East and Africa and supports the thriving media and business sector. It contains about 1,500 headquarters of the largest media companies around the world.
- Dubai International Financial Centre
Dubai International Center is considered one of the most important free zones. It supports financial and banking services institutions and companies and includes more than 750 international companies. Thanks to the capabilities and activities it contains, it has become a center for the most famous and largest financial services companies.
- Dubai World Trade Centre
One of the most important free zones in Dubai, it supports the growth and development of global trade in the Middle East and aims to strengthen the position of the Dubai World Trade Center as a base for various international companies.
Establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai
In Dubai, which is considered one of the most attractive global cities for investments and entrepreneurship, free zones are a gateway for investors wishing to establish their companies. Thanks to the attractive facilities and benefits offered by these areas, investors enjoy an ideal environment to successfully start and operate businesses. Let’s take a look at the process of setting up a company in free zones and the benefits that await investors:
- Determine the type of company: Investors must determine the type of company they wish to establish, whether it is a sole proprietorship, a limited liability company, or a joint stock company, according to their business goals and needs.
- Choosing a free zone: There are several different free zones in Dubai, such as the Jebel Ali zone, the Green Mountain zone, and the Dubai Technology and Media Zone, and investors must choose the zone that suits their business activity and requirements.
- Submitting the application and legal procedures: After determining the type of company and the appropriate free zone, investors must submit an application to establish the company and complete the required legal procedures, including obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals.
- Company establishment and registration: The company is established after completing all legal procedures and submitting the required documents, and the company is registered with the competent authorities in the emirate.
- Benefiting from facilities and exemptions: Once the company is established in the free zone, investors can benefit from tax and customs facilities, as well as exemptions from some commercial duties and taxes.
- Starting to work: After obtaining all necessary licenses and permits, the company can start working in the free zone and begin implementing its business plans and exploring growth and expansion opportunities.
In short, establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai is an important step towards building a prosperous and successful future, as these areas provide an ideal business environment characterized by multiple facilities and benefits.
Advantages of establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai
In light of the rapid economic development and aspirations for economic expansion and success, free zones are considered a preferred destination for establishing companies and establishing businesses. These areas provide a distinctive and suitable investment environment that attracts investors and makes it easier for them to start businesses. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of setting up a company in Dubai’s free zones:
- Tax exemptions: One of the most important advantages of establishing a company in free zones is comprehensive or partial tax exemptions, as investors enjoy exemption from income tax and profit tax for a specific period of time.
- Ease of incorporation: Free zones provide quick and simple incorporation procedures for companies, making it easier for investors to start their businesses quickly and efficiently without facing administrative or bureaucratic obstacles.
- Customs Facilities: Free zones provide easy and accessible customs procedures, which helps reduce the time and effort required to import and export goods and services.
- Access to regional and global markets: Free zones provide an opportunity for companies to access regional and global markets easily, given Dubai’s strategic location on the global trade route.
- Advanced infrastructure: Free zones are characterized by advanced infrastructure and modern facilities that effectively support business, facilitating operations and distribution.
- Full ownership by foreigners: Foreign investors are allowed to fully own companies residing in free zones, which ensures flexibility and ease in managing the business.
In short, free zones provide a distinctive investment environment that combines tax exemptions, ease of establishment, customs facilities, and access to regional and global markets, making them an ideal choice for investors wishing to expand their business and achieve success and growth.
Frequently asked questions about free zones in Dubai
What are the free zones in Dubai?
Free zones in Dubai include a variety of areas such as Dubai Free Zone, Dubai Investment Zone, and other free zones that serve a variety of economic sectors.
What are the main benefits of free zones in Dubai?
- Exemption from customs duties and taxes.
- Facilitations in visas and administrative processes.
- Flexible business environment and excellent strategic location.
What activities can be practiced in the free zones in Dubai?
- Manufacturing, trading and distribution.
- Financial and consulting services.
- Research, development and innovation.
What are the basic steps to establish a company in the free zones in Dubai?
- Choose the appropriate free zone and submit the application.
- Preparing the required documents and submitting them to the competent authorities.
- Pay the required fees and obtain the necessary permits.