The Pros and Cons of Establishing a Business in a UAE Free Zone

UAE has been a popular location for foreigners to establish businesses for many years. In addition, the government has measures in place to help businesses expand and prosper. Individuals from all over the world are drawn to the UAE because of the favourable business climate. The Pros and Cons Of Setting Up An Enterprise In UAE Free Zone is the topic in this blog.

Companies setting up in the UAE can choose from Mainland, Freezone, and Offshore. In Dubai, there are advantages and disadvantages to each type of business structure. The industry in which a firm intends to operate is an important consideration in the establishment of a new business. Entrepreneurs in the United Arab Emirates are increasingly turning to outside firms for assistance in launching their businesses. In comparison to the other two, a company located in a free zone has several advantages. Free zone business set up in Dubai plays an important role in their growth.

For easy company set-up procedures, contact A&A Associate.

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What Exactly Is a UAE Free Zone?

The UAE Free Zone, also known as the Free Trade Zone, is essentially an economic zone in which goods and services are exchanged at “preferential” or very low tax and customs rates. The ‘Free Zones’ were established to encourage multinational enterprises and entrepreneurs to establish operations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates by providing advantages such as 100 per cent foreign ownership.

There are 40+ Free Zones in the UAE that permit diversified company operations in a variety of industries. These Zones have played a significant role in the UAE’s economic growth by attracting worldwide investors and fostering international commerce. This makes it a key location for Company Formation in Dubai and the other UAE Emirates.

Speaking to an established business consultant like A&A Associate can help you get expert advice on managing your business.

Pros of Establishing a Freezone Company in UAE

Surrounding the UAE are more than 40 free zones. Since each free zone is autonomous, it has its own set of rules and regulations. Companies in free zones must adhere to the regulations. In addition, each free zone has its own rules for the kind of enterprises permitted to develop there. There are numerous advantages to establishing a business in Dubai Freezone, which will allow the company to expand and generate greater revenues. To obtain maximum benefits, it is essential, however, to be aware of and comprehend all the specifics of Freezone company formation.

Due to the benefits they provide, Freezone businesses have attracted many businesspeople to Dubai and other regions of the UAE. To assist ex-pats in understanding the benefits of migrating here, we have listed them below.

● You Own the Business

The most significant advantage of forming a company in a Freezone, as opposed to a corporation on the mainland, is full ownership. A non-resident can only own 49% of a Limited Liability Company (LLC). It will be owned by local Emiratis, who will also serve as the company’s sponsor.

● Tax Rebate

This is a substantial advantage. The Freezone Company is not subject to export restrictions, import restrictions, corporate taxes, or customs tariffs.

● Confidentiality

Maintain the confidentiality of the Freezone company’s information. A person is not compelled to disclose information about their assets or other statistics to the government.

● Favourable Visa and Lodging Regulations

As a free zone corporation, its owners, employees, and families can obtain visas without difficulty.

● Unrestricted Commercial Transactions

There are no restrictions on contacting either domestic or international companies

● Excellent Infrastructure

In a free zone territory, superior infrastructure amenities foster the expansion of business enterprises.

Some other benefits include:

Simple and quick setup
100 per cent capital and earnings repatriation allowed
Zero corporate and personal tax
No import or export duties
Numerous Free Zones are VAT-exempt
There are no visa restrictions
Capability to recruit a diverse and talented staff
Advantages of single-window clearances for administrative tasks

Cons of Establishing a Freezone Business in UAE

In addition to the positives, a Freezone company also has downsides. The disadvantages of establishing a free zone corporation in the UAE are listed below.

● Limitations in Jurisdiction

Companies within a particular Freezone are prohibited from expanding into other jurisdictions. Therefore, there is a restriction on expansion.

● Limitations on Business

Companies and persons from the UAE’s mainland are prohibited from conducting business with the Freezone Company.

● Only Certain Businesses

There are particular business sectors inside each Freezone. In this Freezone, only these businesses are permitted. No business establishments are permitted in any Freezone.

● Office Space Rent Is on the Higher Side

Since enterprises must remain inside the designated space, you will be required to pay the requested rent. Frequently, you will be required to pay a hefty rent. Therefore, the firm requires a substantial amount of revenue to survive.

Upon analyzing the benefits and negatives, it can be determined that establishing a business in Dubai Freezone will be advantageous. Not all enterprises in the Freezone will be lucrative. Before establishing a Freezone company, you may need to examine the business opportunities. In the Freezone, not every enterprise will be prosperous for many reasons. It would be wise to discuss with an experienced business set-up consultant like A&A Associate in Dubai.

Free Zones in Dubai and the Other Emirates

Over twenty Free Zones exist in Dubai, including some of the most prestigious in the nation.

JAFZA (Jebal Ali Free Zone)

JAFZA is the largest Middle Eastern Free Zone. It was founded in 1985 and is home to nearly 8,000 businesses, including one hundred Fortune 500 organizations. JAFZA is primarily concerned with manufacturing and trading firms.

DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodity Centre)

Located in the heart of Dubai, DMCC has been named Global Free Zone by The Financial Times FDI Magazine six times. DMCC comprises nearly 13,000 businesses, including numerous gold refineries.

DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority)

DAFZA is one of the major airport-free zones in the world, having been established in 1996. DAFZA is home to numerous international firms and provides direct access to DXB, the world’s busiest airport.

Some Free Zone Businesses Established in the Other Emirates:

Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone)

SAIF Zone is one of the largest and fastest-growing airport Free Zones in the region, as well as the oldest. It was founded in 1995. Over 10,000 businesses reside in SAIF Zone, which is renowned for its world-class warehouse facilities.

Shams (Sharjah Media City)

The UAE’s Sharjah Media City is a relatively new media-free zone. A SHAM is an economical solution, particularly for e-commerce. Additionally, SHAMS grants Freelance licenses to support professionals.

Hamriyah Free Zone (HFZ)

The 1995-founded Hamriyah Free Zone is home to roughly 6,000 businesses. HFZ is a well-liked location for oil-related and manufacturing businesses.

KIZAD (Khalifa Industrial Zone)

KIZAD’s proximity to Khalifa Port, one of the most modern deep seaports in the world with world-class infrastructure, offers multimodal access via sea, air, road, and rail networks. With trade, logistics, and industry at its centre, KIZAD is regarded as the region’s integrated trade, logistics, and industrial powerhouse.

RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)

RAKEZ, located in the centre of Ras Al Khaimah, is the industrial centre of the region. RAKEZ serves a diverse clientele, ranging from startups and freelancers to SMBs and industrialists. RAKEZ is home to nearly 14,000 businesses spanning fifty industries.

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority)

IFZA is a new Free Zone whose jurisdiction was recently shifted to Dubai. IFZA provides start-ups in Dubai with cost-effective incorporation packages and incorporation solutions.

A&A Associate will not only assist you with Company Formation in Dubai Free Zone but will also advise you on how to advance your business and provide you with everything you need. For further details get in contact with sales@aaconsultancy.ae.