One Central – Offices No. 4 Dubai | Office: +971 45686046
ITQAN is a company that specializes in business setup and business growth

Time frame to set up a company in Dubai free zones

١٢ مايو Time frame to set up a company in Dubai free zones

How long does it take to set up a company in Dubai’s free zones? Dubai’s free zones are a preferred destination for investors and entrepreneurs, providing an ideal environment for establishing companies with flexibility and ease. The time required to set up a company in these zones ranges from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of business activity and the procedures required. The local authorities in Dubai offer a range of facilities and services that help speed up the establishment process, making it an attractive option for those seeking to start their business. In this article, we will review the different stages of the time required to set up a company in Dubai’s free zones

Time

Time frame to set up a company in Dubai free zones

The time period for establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai ranges from 5 to 15 days, depending on several factors, including:

  • Type of business activity: Some activities may require additional procedures or special approvals, which may increase the incorporation period.
  • Documentation Completion: If all required documents are complete and accurate, this will help speed up the process. Required documents may include: passport, personal photos, business plan, and office lease agreement.
  • Choosing a Free Zone: Each free zone has its own procedures, and some may be faster than others. For example, free zones such as Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and Dubai South may offer faster services in some cases.
  • Collaborate with local consultants: Consulting firms such as Atqan can help speed up the incorporation process by providing the necessary guidance and handling administrative procedures.

In general, Dubai’s free zones offer a flexible and fast-paced business environment, making them an ideal destination for investors and businessmen.

Steps to establish a company in the free zones in Dubai

Establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai requires following a set of specific steps. Here are the main steps to establish a company:

  1. Determine the type of company and its activity: Determine the type of company (sole proprietorship, limited liability company, etc.) and the business activity you wish to practice.
  2. Choosing the right free zone: Choose the free zone that suits your business, such as Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) or Dubai South Free Zone.
  3. Prepare the required documents: Prepare the required documents, which usually include: Passport (original and copy) for investors and managers. Personal photos. Business plan.
  4. Submitting the application: Submit the application to register the company in the selected free zone, attaching all required documents.
  5. Pay the fees: Pay the fees required to register the company, which may vary depending on the region and activity.
  6. Obtaining the license: After reviewing the application and documents, you will receive the commercial license that allows you to start working.
  7. Open a bank account: Open a company bank account at a local bank.
  8. Tax Registration: If your business requires tax registration, make sure to complete this in accordance with local laws.
  9. Employment: Hire staff if necessary, and take care of obtaining the necessary visas.
  10. Getting Started: After completing all the previous steps, you can start your official business in the free zone.
    By following these steps, you can establish a successful company in the free zones of Dubai and benefit from the many advantages they offer.

Advantages of establishing a company in the free zones in Dubai

Setting up a company in Dubai’s free zones offers many advantages that make it a preferred destination for investors and businessmen. Here are some of these advantages:

  1. 100% Foreign Ownership: Free zones allow investors to fully own their companies without the need for a local partner.
  2. Tax Exemptions: Free zones offer tax exemptions that include no tax on profits for up to 50 years, as well as no personal income tax.
  3. Facilitating establishment procedures: Free zones are characterised by quick and simple registration procedures, which reduces the time required to establish a company.
  4. Advanced Infrastructure: Free zones offer modern infrastructure including offices, warehouses, and advanced logistics facilities that support business growth.
  5. Access to global markets: Free zones offer strategic locations near ports and airports, facilitating access to regional and international markets.
  6. Flexibility in business activities: Free zones allow for the diversification of business activities, enabling companies to operate in multiple fields.
  7. Work visa facilitation: Free zones facilitate the issuance of work visas for investors and employees, which contributes to accelerating growth and business expansion.
  8. Free business environment: Free zones provide a free business environment that ensures freedom of trade and dealing, which enhances innovation and creativity.
  9. Legal Protection: Companies in free zones enjoy clear legal protection, which enhances confidence among investors.
  10. Government Support: The UAE government offers significant support to investors in free zones, including consulting and business development assistance.
    These benefits make Dubai’s free zones an attractive option for many entrepreneurs and investors looking to set up their businesses in an environment that encourages growth and innovation.

Time

Documents required to establish a company in the free zones in Dubai

To set up a company in Dubai free zones , you need to submit a set of basic documents. Here is a list of the required papers:

  1. Copy of Passport: Copies must be original and valid for both investors and directors.
  2. Personal Photos: You usually need recent personal photos of investors and directors.
  3. Registration Application Form: The application form for establishing the company must be filled out, which can be obtained from the relevant authority in the free zone.
  4. Business Plan: Provide a detailed business plan that outlines the company’s activities, goals, and the services or products it will offer.
  5. Lease Agreement: A lease agreement for an office or workspace within the free zone, which specifies the location of the company.
  6. Corporate Documents (if the investor is a company): Legal documents of the parent company must be submitted, such as the certificate of incorporation, articles of association, and registration data.
  7. Permits and Approvals (if required): Some business activities may require additional permits or approvals from certain authorities.
  8. No Debt Pledge: The investor may be required to provide a pledge that the company has no debts owed.
  9. Academic qualification certificates (if required): Some businesses may require proof of academic qualifications or experience in the field.
    Be sure to check the specific free zone requirements, as they may vary slightly depending on the business. Submitting the paperwork correctly and completely will help speed up the company registration process.

Do I need a local partner to set up a company in the free zones?

When considering setting up a company in Dubai’s free zones, one of the most common questions is whether you need a local partner. The answer is no, as free zones allow you to have full ownership of your company without the need for a local partner. This advantage is one of the main reasons why many investors prefer to set up their companies in free zones, as it gives them complete control over their business operations and strategic decisions.

Free zones are designed to encourage foreign investment, providing an environment conducive to growth and innovation. This system allows you to set up the type of company you want, whether it is a sole proprietorship or a limited liability company, without worrying about complicated partnerships. In addition, this system provides multiple tax facilities, making it easier for investors to focus on developing their business.

However, it is important to note that some business activities may require special permits or approvals. It is always advisable to check the specific legal requirements for the type of activity you wish to undertake. Thanks to these advantages, free zones become an ideal option for investors who want to achieve their business goals without the complications associated with a local partnership.

In conclusion, Dubai’s free zones are an ideal environment for setting up businesses, offering a number of benefits that make them a preferred destination for investors and entrepreneurs. From full ownership and tax exemptions to fast-track procedures and flexibility in business activities, these factors contribute to fostering growth and innovation. Starting a business in these zones not only provides unique business opportunities, but also opens up new avenues for expansion and access to global markets. With government support and advanced infrastructure, setting up a company in Dubai’s free zones is a strategic move that paves the way for sustainable business success.

Frequently asked questions about setting up a company in the free zones in Dubai