The Free zones have been designed to complement and contribute to Dubai’s growth and development but their legal status is extremely unique with the companies operating in them being legally treated as foreign companies or companies operating outside the UAE. The choice of doing business in free zones is very suitable for companies interested in taking  advantage of Dubai as a regional manufacturing or distribution area, as most of the sales of such companies will be exported without any tax being imposed.

Advantages of free zones

Investing in a free zone allows 100% ownership of your enterprise, 100 % repatriation of capital and profits, no minimum capital investment, no corporate or personal tax and no need for a local partner. Added to these advantages are ready-made offices, factories, warehouses and easy start-up and licensing procedures. With such benefits, it is no wonder that Dubai has the finest free zones in the world. Click here for a list of Dubai free zones.

Jebel Ali Free Zone

One of the oldest and most successful is Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), which was set up in 1980 and has the world’s largest man-made port in the world. The upcoming Maktoum International Airport will make JAFZA the only free zone with both an international port and airport.

Financial free zones

Some free zones are created in city-clusters or districts with specific services or industrial specializations. The financial free zones include Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Dubai Gold & Commodities Exchange.

Media and technology free zones

The media and IT specialized zones include Dubai Media City, International Media Production Zone, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, Mohammed bin Rashid Techno Park and Dubai Biotechnology & Research Park.

Other free zones

Other free zones include Knowledge Village and Dubai Academic City, Dubai Healthcare City, International Humanitarian City, Dubai Outsource Zone, Dubai Airport Free Zone, Dubai Flower Center, Dubai Maritime City, Dubai Logistic City, Enpark (Energy & Environmental Park), Dubai Textile Village, Dubai Cars & Automotive Zone (DUCAMZ), Awir Free Zone, Dubai Carpet & Textile City and Dubai Sports City.