Business Setup in Dubai Free Zones: Complete 2026 Guide

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.

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Key Benefits of Dubai Free Zones in 2026 + Corporate Tax Rules

Free 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.

0% Tax on Qualifying Income

Maintain 0% if compliant; huge for international/export businesses. Stay competitive in global markets.

Mainland Access 2026

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.

Fast & Remote Setup

Many zones digital; 2–10 days processing. Start your business from anywhere in the world.

Visa & Repatriation

Easy investor/employee visas; 100% capital/profit repatriation. Full control over your finances.

Step-by-Step Business Setup Process in Dubai Free Zones 2026

  1. Choose zone & activity (match to specialized zones via Invest in Dubai).
  2. Select structure: FZE, FZ-LLC, branch based on your business needs.
  3. Reserve name & initial approval (online in most zones).
  4. Lease flexi-desk/office (visa quota based on space).
  5. Pay fees, get license (digital signing common).
  6. Open UAE bank account & apply visas/residency.
  7. Compliance: VAT if >AED 375k, annual renewal, CT filing if applicable.

Timeline: 1–4 weeks; remote possible. Vesta Solutions manages everything.

Updated 2026 Setup Costs in Dubai Free Zones

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.

Best Dubai Free Zones 2026: Comparison for Startups & Businesses

IFZA

Cheapest in Dubai; multi-activities; fast remote setup. Ideal for startups and entrepreneurs. Official IFZA →

Meydan Free Zone

Affordable, central Dubai location; great for digital/freelance businesses. Low overheads with premium address.

DMCC

Prestigious; excellent networking; commodities/crypto focus. Premium but valuable for serious traders.

JAFZA

Logistics king; port/airport access; for established trading/manufacturing companies needing scale.

Others (RAKEZ, SHAMS, Dubai South)

Budget alternatives; media/e-commerce focus; often starting under AED 15k. Great for specific niches.

FAQs: Dubai Free Zones 2026

Is corporate tax still 0% in free zones 2026?

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.

Can free zone companies trade on mainland Dubai now?

Yes – via permit/branch under Resolution No. (11)/2025 (DET approval). Companies must regularize by March 2026 to take advantage of this new opportunity.

What is the cheapest Dubai free zone in 2026?

IFZA (~AED 11k–15k) or Meydan (~AED 12.5k) are among the most affordable options; great for startups and small businesses starting out.

Do I need to visit Dubai for setup?

No – remote/digital setup is possible in many zones (power of attorney available). Vesta Solutions can handle everything on your behalf.

How can Vesta Solutions help?

Full-service support: zone/activity selection, licensing, visas, banking, tax compliance, mainland permits. Transparent pricing & fast turnaround guaranteed.

Launch Your Dubai Free Zone Business in 2026 with Confidence

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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