Free zones in the UAE are designated economic areas that provide favorable tax and customs rates for businesses.
Each free zone operates under distinct laws and jurisdictions that govern business activities. Despite variations, the shared objective of these free zones is to stimulate foreign business growth by providing attractive benefits, including the ability to own 100% of the business.
In this article, the cheapest free zones in UAE are listed along with recommendations for the most suitable cheapest among them for your business. Furthermore, we have also discussed the trade license costs in these free zones.
Which is the Cheapest Free Zone in the UAE?
Below is a compilation of the most economic-free zones in the UAE.
- International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Dubai Healthcare City (DHC)
- Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
The Cheapest Free Zone In The UAE:
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS):
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is acknowledged as the most budget-friendly free zone in the UAE, with starting costs as low as AED 5,750. Currently, SHAMS provides business setup packages, making it the most economical option for obtaining a free zone license in the UAE.
The package incorporates a professional media license and the option to select one activity from a list of 13 choices. Extra activities can be included for an additional fee of AED 1,000 per activity if desired.
Media Activities List:
- Advertising
- Digital Marketing
- Programming and consultancy
- Media production
- Photography
- Web portal
- Printing
- Market research
- Graphic design
- Fashion design
- Interior design
- Publishing
- Translation services
As this business formation package does not include visa services, the media license is especially well-suited for new entrepreneurs, residents of the UAE, and current business owners. Therefore, SHAMS facilitates the most affordable company formation in the UAE for small and large creative businesses.
Other Cheapest Free Zones In UAE:
There is intense competition among Free Zones in the UAE regarding business license packages and support services. Investors are continuously exploring avenues to reduce company setup expenses. Following is the list of some of the cheapest free zones in the UAE that offer economical free zone licenses.
Cheap Trade License Costs:
The costs of trade licenses for the most budget-friendly free zone packages range from AED 5,500 to AED 12,500, contingent upon visa allocation and facilities. The following table outlines package details for some of the most economic-free zones in various emirates of the UAE.
| SI NO | Free Zones | Emirates | Trade License Cost | Visa Quota & Facilities |
| 1 | SRTIP Free Zone | Sharjah | AED 5,500 | Services Business License with No Visa Requirement |
| 2 | Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) | Ras Al Khaimah | AED 11,440 | Services Business License with Flexi Desk Option and No Visa Quota |
Cheapest Free Zones In Dubai City:
Dubai’s Free Trade Zones presents diverse business setup packages tailored for global investors. The most economical business license in Dubai starts at AED 12,900, making it an ideal choice for initiating a business venture with lower initial setup costs.
In the recent year 2023, DUQE and IFZA stand out as the most affordable Free Zones in Dubai. Both zones provide competitive packages, enabling investors to establish their companies in Dubai. These zones provide unparalleled business setup solutions and affordable trade licenses for realizing your entrepreneurial aspirations.
The following budget-friendly Free Trade Zones in Dubai furnish all necessary business infrastructure for new investors.
| SI NO | Free Zones | Emirates | Trade License Cost | Visa Quota & Facilities |
| 1 | International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) | Dubai | AED 12,900 | No Visa Requirement |
| 2 | Meydan Free Zone | Dubai | AED 12,500 | No Visa Requirement, Shared Office Spaces |
| 3 | Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) | Dubai | AED 12,500 | No Visa Requirement includes a Smart Desk. |
How Can We Help You Select the Right Free Zone?
Establishing a company in Dubai, UAE, has become simpler. Yet, in your quest for the most affordable free zone license, it’s crucial to grasp various free zones and application procedures. Our consultants will assist you in selecting the most suitable and economical free zone for your business needs, guiding the entire company setup process.
FAQs:
Which Is The Cheapest Media License In The UAE?
Currently, Sharjah Media City offers the most affordable business setup packages, presenting the most economical free zone license in the UAE.
What Are The Advantages of a Low-cost Business Setup In a Free Zone?
The advantages of a low-cost business setup in a free zone are full foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, no import/export taxes, strategic location, and efficient process.
