Dubai Business Setup Guide
Compare mainland vs freezone company formation. Understand costs, timelines, and requirements.
Mainland vs Freezone
- Mainland (DED) — Trade anywhere in UAE, requires local sponsor (now 100% foreign ownership in most activities), cost: AED 15,000-30,000
- Freezone — 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, limited to freezone/international trade, cost: AED 10,000-50,000 depending on zone
Popular Freezones
- DMCC — Commodities, trading
- DIFC — Financial services
- Dubai Internet City — Technology
- Dubai Media City — Media and creative
- JAFZA — Manufacturing, logistics
- IFZA — Multi-activity, affordable