Expert Guidance for Setting Up in UAE Freezones

Why set up your business in a UAE Free Zone

A Free Zone, also known as a free trade zone, is a designated economic area within the UAE that operates under its own set of rules and regulations. Today, there are over 40 Free Zones in the UAE with each Free Zone catering to specific industries and sectors within which the company is allowed to carry out its business. Each Free Zone is administered and governed by their own regulatory authority and operates under their own specific rules and regulations.
Some characteristics of a Free Zone include:

100% foreign ownership, without the requirement for a local sponsor or agent;
A physical office is generally required, with visa quotas tied to the size of the workspace;
Free Zone companies are limited to conducting business only within the designated area of the Free Zone.

Requirements to set up a Free Zone company

The requirements of setting up a Free Zone company can vary depending on the Free Zone authority and the type of business activity. Some of the required documents include a completed application form, passport copies of the company’s shareholders and appointed manager or director. For investors residing in the UAE, copies of their Emirates ID and UAE residence visa are required.

Legal and corporate structure

The type of legal entity that is right for your business will depend on the size and desired company structure. There are several types of legal entities that can be established in a UAE Free Zone:

Free Zone Establishment (FZE);
Free Zone Company (FZC);
Branch office of existing foreign or UAE-based company; and
Representative office of existing foreign company

FZE
An FZE is a limited liability company and designed for a sole shareholder. The main advantage of a limited liability company is that the shareholder is not personally liable for the debts or liabilities of the company other than the capital invested by the partner.

Branch and representative office
One of the primary reasons for setting up a branch office is retaining the company’s identity, and making it simple for an established business to keep running in a different economic jurisdiction. The branch office will function as headquarters in the UAE with 100% ownership of the existing parent company.

FZC
An FZC allows a larger number of shareholders and is also a limited liability structure. The only difference between an FZE and an FZC is that the FZE has only one shareholder whereas an FZC can have multiple shareholders.

The main difference between a branch office and representative office is that the representative office is limited to practicing promotional business for the products and services provided by the existing parent company. Therefore, a representative office cannot import/export or sell in the UAE.

How Solvus can support your Free Zone incorporation journey

Utilizing our experience and expertise in company registration in the region, Solvus is your trusted partner navigating through the complexities of market entry in the UAE and determine the best fit for your future company. From the initial application to obtaining your business license from the Free Zone authority, Solvus can assist with every aspect of the incorporation process. Our services include but are not limited to:

Identifying your primary business activity
Choosing the right jurisdiction for your business
Assisting with document preparation
Submitting your application with the relevant authorities

Post-incorporation we provide a various range of services, such as corporate secretarial support, assistance with bank account opening, (regulatory) compliance services, support relating to immigration services, board support and company liquidation.

Choose Solvus for your Free Zone incorporation

Unlock the benefits of 100% foreign ownership and a thriving business environment with our Free Zone company setup services. From choosing the right jurisdiction to obtaining your license, Solvus ensures a seamless incorporation journey. Contact us today to start your business in a UAE Free Zone and take advantage of unparalleled growth opportunities. With Solvus, your success is just a step away.

Contact us today to establish your business in a UAE Free Zone. With Solvus, incorporation is more than a process—it’s your gateway to unlimited growth and global opportunities.