Updated steps, costs (IFZA from ~AED 11k–15k), benefits including 0% tax on qualifying income, mainland access via 2025/2026 permits, and top zones for startups & established firms. Expert services by Vesta Solutions.
Free Consultation – Start Your UAE BusinessFree zones remain a top choice: 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, no customs duties on zone trade, world-class infrastructure. Per Federal Tax Authority (tax.gov.ae), Qualifying Free Zone Persons enjoy 0% corporate tax on Qualifying Income (e.g., exports, transactions with other free zones) if conditions met (substance, de minimis non-qualifying revenue <5%). 9% on non-qualifying (e.g., mainland UAE sales above thresholds). See official guide: FTA Free Zone Guide.
Maintain 0% if compliant; huge for international/export businesses. Stay competitive in global markets.
Via Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025: Obtain permit/branch license from DET for mainland ops without new entity. Deadline for regularization: March 2026. Read Resolution Details.
Many zones digital; 2–10 days processing. Start your business from anywhere in the world.
Easy investor/employee visas; 100% capital/profit repatriation. Full control over your finances.
Timeline: 1–4 weeks; remote possible. Vesta Solutions manages everything.
Costs vary; indicative from official & reliable sources (investindubai.gov.ae, Shuraa, Vertix 2026 updates). Confirm with zones.
| Zone | Starting License (AED) | Full Setup (1-2 Visas + Flexi) | Best For | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IFZA | 10,900–15,000 | 15,000–30,000 | Startups, multi-activities, consulting | Shuraa, RadiantBiz |
| Meydan | 12,500–14,000 | 18,000–35,000 | Freelancers, e-commerce, affordable Dubai | Shuraa, Estabia |
| DMCC | 12,000–35,000+ | 35,000–70,000+ | Trading, commodities, crypto | DMCC.ae, Vertix |
| JAFZA | 15,000+ | 40,000–100,000+ (warehouse) | Logistics, manufacturing | JAFZA.ae, Invest in Dubai |
| General First-Year | 15,000–50,000 (service license + visas + flexi-desk) | |||
Additional: Visas ~AED 3,500–8,000 each; office upgrades higher.
Cheapest in Dubai; multi-activities; fast remote setup. Ideal for startups and entrepreneurs. Official IFZA →
Affordable, central Dubai location; great for digital/freelance businesses. Low overheads with premium address.
Prestigious; excellent networking; commodities/crypto focus. Premium but valuable for serious traders.
Logistics king; port/airport access; for established trading/manufacturing companies needing scale.
Budget alternatives; media/e-commerce focus; often starting under AED 15k. Great for specific niches.
Yes, 0% on Qualifying Income for Qualifying Free Zone Persons (FTA rules); 9% on non-qualifying income. See tax.gov.ae guide for full details and eligibility criteria.
Yes – via permit/branch under Resolution No. (11)/2025 (DET approval). Companies must regularize by March 2026 to take advantage of this new opportunity.
IFZA (~AED 11k–15k) or Meydan (~AED 12.5k) are among the most affordable options; great for startups and small businesses starting out.
No – remote/digital setup is possible in many zones (power of attorney available). Vesta Solutions can handle everything on your behalf.
Full-service support: zone/activity selection, licensing, visas, banking, tax compliance, mainland permits. Transparent pricing & fast turnaround guaranteed.
Vesta Solutions: Trusted UAE legal & business setup experts. Free consultation, accurate 2026 advice, end-to-end support. Don't miss tax benefits & mainland access!
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