The main advantage offered by the UAE free zones is that foreign investors can retain 100% ownership of their businesses without the need for a local partner.

Outside of free zones, non-UAE residents are not allowed a majority stake in the business if that business requires a commercial or industrial licence, and must therefore set up with a local partner who takes minimum ownership of 51%.

Other financial incentives of the UAE free zones include a 0% corporate and income tax rate, no customs duties levied on imports and exports, and the option to repatriate 100% of the profits from the business.

Free zones are sector-specific. Another factor that can present fantastic opportunities to free zone companies is that many of the UAE free zones are sector specific. This gives its entrepreneurs ready access to a hub of knowledge and expertise from others within their field.

Full Ownership: No need for a local sponsor for business setup in UAE free zones. Thus, the foreign entrepreneur has 100% ownership of his free zone company.

Tax waivers: No income tax, inherent tax, personal tax or corporate tax is applicable, making these designated areas a true tax haven. Plus, the import/export duty is nominal.

Easy repatriation: The entrepreneur is entitled to send home the earnings, fully and partially. The currency movement is also fast and hassle-free.

Progressive business environment: The UAE has everything that a business needs to thrive – business-friendly policies, excellent infrastructure, advanced communication system, ease of doing business, an upbeat economic environment and more.

Cost Benefits: Low Dubai Freezone company setup cost and operational cost, together with tax exemptions, ensure high profitability.

Fine-tuned infrastructure: Free zones feature world-class IT infrastructure and ready-to-occupy offices and warehouses. Professional business support services, such as labour assistance, sponsorship and more, are also readily available for hassle-free operations.

Fast incorporations: Thanks to a single entry point for licensing and registration, along with friendly legislation, the Dubai free zone business setup is fast and trouble-free.

Convenient recruitments: The recruitment and onboarding processes are fast and stress-free. Employees can be acquired from abroad in any numbers or hired locally.

Easily approachable: Each free zone is strategically located in the vicinity to airports, seaports and railway stations, ensuring logistics advantages.

Growing market: The consumerism and purchasing capacity in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is on the rise, providing a ready market for free zone companies.

Confidentiality: The pertinent information of the owners and directors, along with the nature of the business, is kept discrete with strict anonymity legislation.