• Home
  • Blog
  • blog
  • Dubai Freezone Company Setup Cost: Complete Guide for 2025

Dubai Freezone Company Setup Cost: Complete Guide for 2025

business setup Trustpilot Reviews
business setup Google Reviews
Dubai Freezone Company Setup Cost

Starting a business in a Dubai Freezone is one of the most cost-effective ways to enter the UAE market. But before you begin, you need to understand the full breakdown of the Dubai Freezone company setup cost. From trade license fees to office rent and visa charges, this guide will explain every aspect clearly.

Understanding the Basics of Dubai Freezone Company Setup

Setting up a company in a Dubai Freezone allows you to operate with 100% ownership, enjoy tax benefits, and conduct international trade with ease. However, every Freezone has its own pricing, regulations, and packages.

Why Choose a Freezone?

Freezones are ideal for startups, SMEs, and international companies looking for:

  • Full foreign ownership

  • 100% profit repatriation

  • Zero corporate and personal tax

  • Streamlined registration process

What is the Average Dubai Freezone Company Setup Cost?

The average cost to start a company in a Dubai Freezone ranges from AED 12,500 to AED 50,000, depending on the type of license, number of visas, and office space requirements.

Cost Varies by Business Activity

Certain activities like consultancy, media, trading, and e-commerce have different pricing. The more regulated or resource-heavy the activity, the higher the initial investment.

Trade License Fees in Dubai Freezones

Your first major cost will be the Freezone trade license, which is mandatory for legal operation.

Types of Licenses

  • Commercial License – For trading goods

  • Professional License – For services and consultancies

  • Industrial License – For manufacturing and production

  • E-commerce License – For online stores

Trade license cost in Dubai Freezones usually starts from AED 5,000 and can go up depending on the type of license and Freezone authority.

Company Registration Charges in Dubai Freezones

Each Freezone charges a company registration fee, which is a one-time payment during setup.

Estimated Registration Cost

  • AED 3,000 to AED 10,000, depending on the Freezone and legal structure

  • Includes name reservation, MOA preparation, initial approval, and registration certificate

This is separate from the licensing fee and is part of the Dubai Freezone setup cost.

Office Space Options and Costs in Dubai Freezones

Choosing an office space is essential to your business license, especially if your license includes visa quotas.

Office Types Available

  • Flexi-desk (shared office): AED 4,000–7,000/year

  • Dedicated desk: AED 7,000–10,000/year

  • Private office: AED 10,000–20,000+/year

  • Executive office: AED 25,000–50,000+/year

Your office choice will impact your visa eligibility and operational capacity.

Visa Package Costs for Freezone Companies

When setting up a company, you can apply for residence visas for yourself, partners, and employees.

Visa Cost Breakdown

  • Establishment card: AED 1,500–2,000

  • Investor visa: AED 3,500–5,000

  • Employee visa: AED 4,000–6,000

Each Freezone offers packages that include 1 to 6 visas. The more visas you add, the higher your Dubai Freezone company formation cost.

Freezone Packages for Startups and Solo Entrepreneurs

If you’re a solo entrepreneur or freelancer, many Freezones offer affordable business setup packages.

Popular Low-Cost Packages

  • AED 12,500 to AED 15,000 for license + Flexi desk + 1 visa

  • Perfect for consultants, marketers, and IT professionals

These are ideal for those looking for low-cost business setup in Dubai Freezone.

Shared vs Private Office: What Impacts Cost the Most?

Your choice between a shared office (Flexi desk) and a private office significantly affects cost.

Comparison

  • Shared desks are cheaper but limited in visas

  • Private offices are more expensive but allow for team expansion

  • Executive offices help build credibility for banking and clients

Office rental in Dubai Freezone is one of the top cost influencers in your total setup expense.

Freezones Offering the Best Value in Dubai

Some Freezones offer better value for money depending on your activity and visa needs.

Top Cost-Effective Freezones

  • IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) – Starts from AED 13,900

  • Dubai South Freezone – Ideal for logistics and aviation-related businesses

  • Dubai Silicon Oasis – Great for tech and IT startups

  • Meydan Freezone – Popular for digital businesses and freelancers

These zones offer cheap Freezone company formation in Dubai with flexibility in pricing.

Ongoing Annual Renewal Fees in Freezones

Your costs don’t stop after setup. You must renew your license and office every year.

Typical Annual Renewal Costs

  • License renewal: AED 7,000–15,000

  • Office renewal: Based on your selected plan

  • Visa renewals: AED 3,000–5,000 per visa

Always account for renewal costs when calculating your total Dubai Freezone business setup budget.

Hidden Costs You Should Not Ignore

Beyond the visible pricing, there are some hidden costs that many entrepreneurs miss.

Common Hidden Charges

  • Document attestation (for foreign shareholders): AED 1,000–2,000+

  • Health insurance: Mandatory, AED 1,000–2,500/person

  • Bank account setup: May require minimum deposits

  • Miscellaneous approvals: Especially for specialized industries

Being aware of these ensures accurate planning of your Freezone company setup cost in Dubai.

Comparing Freezone Costs vs Mainland Company Setup

Many wonder how Freezones compare with mainland setups in terms of cost.

Freezone vs Mainland

  • Freezones: Cheaper, easier, full ownership, but limited to Freezone or international business

  • Mainland: Higher cost, local sponsor needed, can do business anywhere in UAE

If you’re focused on international trade or online services, Freezones are more budget-friendly and efficient.

Conclusion

The Dubai Freezone company setup cost varies depending on your chosen Freezone, business activity, office space, and visa needs. While initial packages may start at AED 12,500, additional services, renewals, and hidden charges can raise your total cost. Understanding every element helps you budget smartly and choose the right zone.

Working with a business advisor can simplify the process and save you time. If you’re ready to get started, begin your business setup in Dubai, UAE with expert guidance to ensure success.

FAQs

What is the cheapest Freezone in Dubai?

IFZA, Meydan, and Dubai South are among the most affordable, offering packages starting from AED 12,500.

How much does it cost to open a company with 2 visas?

Expect a total cost between AED 18,000 and AED 25,000, depending on office type and Freezone.

Are Flexi desk packages valid for investor visas?

Yes, most Flexi desk plans support 1–2 investor visas and are ideal for solo founders.

Can I upgrade my Freezone package later?

Absolutely. You can upgrade your office, license, or visa quota anytime by paying the difference.

Do Freezone companies pay corporate tax?

As of 2024, most Freezone businesses remain tax-free, but it’s best to consult on updates.

Are license and visa fees included in setup cost?

Most packages include license and 1–3 visas, but confirm the breakdown before committing.

Can I operate a Freezone business outside the Freezone?

Direct B2C business in mainland UAE requires a mainland license or a local distributor.

What is the renewal fee after one year?

You’ll pay around AED 7,000 to AED 15,000 per year for renewal, plus visa and office renewal.

Do I need a local sponsor in Freezones?

No. Freezone companies offer 100% foreign ownership with no need for a local partner.

Can I open a business bank account with a Freezone license?

Yes. A valid Freezone license and office space are required for business banking in the UAE.

Leave A Comment

CALCULATE BUSINESS SETUP COST