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Establishing a company in the Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Free Zone

٠٥ مارس Establishing a company in the Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Free Zone in Dubai is a strategic choice for local and international investors, thanks to the economic and tax incentives these areas offer, in addition to a facilitating regulatory environment and advanced infrastructure. Dubai is home to many prominent free zones, such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Internet City, and the Dubai International Financial Center, which contribute to attracting capital and projects from all over the world. In this context, this article provides a comprehensive overview of how to establish a company in the Free Zone in Dubai, focusing on the importance of using specialized consulting companies such as Itqan Company in establishing a company in the Free Zone to ensure a smooth and successful process.

Establishing a company in the Free Zone provides investors with the advantage of full foreign ownership, giving them full control over their companies without the need for a local partner. This system enhances Dubai\’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign investments, especially for companies looking to expand into new markets. In addition, companies in free zones benefit from tax exemptions that extend for many years, as well as financial and administrative facilities that help reduce operational costs and increase profits.

The legal and regulatory procedures for establishing a company in the Free Zone are simple and effective, but they require accuracy and knowledge of details. Here comes the role of Itqan Company, which provides integrated consulting services that include legal guidance, coordination of procedures with local authorities, and preparation of the necessary documents. Thanks to its deep experience in this field, Itqan Company ensures that the company is established quickly and efficiently, saving investors time and effort and helping them focus on growing their business.

Advantages of establishing a company in the Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Free Zone in Dubai provides many advantages that make it an attractive destination for investors from all over the world. Below are the most prominent of these advantages:

  1. 100% foreign ownership: Free Zone also allows foreign investors to fully own their companies without the need for a local partner, giving them full control over their business.
  2. Tax exemption: Companies in the Free Zone also enjoy complete exemption from taxes on income and profits for long periods of up to 50 years, which increases investment attractiveness and enhances profitability.
  3. Full repatriation of profits and capital: Free Zone also allows the full repatriation of profits and capital to the investor’s home country, which provides great financial flexibility.
  4. Ease of establishing a company: Free Zone also features simple and quick procedures for establishing companies, including submitting applications online and obtaining approvals in record time.
  5. Flexible regulatory environment: Free Zone then provides a flexible regulatory environment with laws and regulations that support business and facilitate business operations, allowing companies to focus on growth and innovation.
  6. Facilities in employment and visas: Free Zone also provides great facilities in issuing visas and work permits for employees, which makes it easy to attract international talent.
  7. Advanced infrastructure:  Therefore, the Free Zone has a modern infrastructure that includes offices, warehouses, advanced logistical services, and high-quality communications networks, which supports all business needs.
  8. Access to global markets:  Thanks to Dubai\’s strategic location as an international commercial center, companies in the Free Zone enjoy easy access to global markets, which enhances opportunities for expansion and growth.
  9. Strong government support: Companies in the Free Zone then receive strong government support that includes financial incentives and business support programs, which enhances the stability and growth of companies.
  10. Multiple types of commercial licenses:  Free Zone offers a variety of commercial licenses that cover various economic sectors, allowing investors to choose the license that suits their commercial activity.

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Establishing a company in the Free Zone

Basic steps to establish a company in the Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Free Zone in Dubai requires following a set of basic steps to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Below are the basic steps for establishing a company in the Free Zone:

  • Choosing the appropriate free zone: Also select the free zone that suits your business activity. Dubai includes many specialized free zones, such as Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Internet City, and the Dubai International Financial Center.
  • Determine the type of business activity: Then choose the type of business activity you wish to practice (commercial, industrial, service, etc.) because each type requires a specific commercial license.
  • Choosing a trade name: Therefore, choose a trade name suitable for your company and make sure it complies with Free Zone regulations. The name must not be in use by another company and be consistent with local rules.
  • Submitting an application for incorporation: Also fill out the incorporation application form available on the Free Zone website or through its offices. The application includes information about the company, type of business activity and capital.
  • Submitting the required documents: Also prepare the necessary documents, which include:
  1. Copies of passports of all partners.
  2. Action Plan.
  3. Lease contract (if you are renting an office or work space in the Free Zone).
  4. Personal Photos.
  5. No objection certificate (NOC) from your current sponsor (if you are residing in the UAE).
  • Obtaining the necessary approvals: Therefore, submit applications to obtain approvals from the relevant government agencies in the Free Zone. Additional approvals may be required depending on the type of business.
  • Issuance of a commercial license: After completing all procedures and paying the fees, the commercial license for your company will be issued.
  • Opening a bank account: After obtaining the license, you can open a commercial bank account in one of the local banks in Dubai.
  • Preparing the office or workplace: Prepare your office or workplace in the Free Zone. Ensure all technical and logistical requirements are met.
  • Compliance with tax and financial requirements: Ensure compliance with all tax and financial requirements. Although the Free Zone provides tax exemptions, you may have to submit periodic financial reports.

By following these basic steps, investors can easily establish a company in the Free Zone in Dubai and benefit from the economic and regulatory advantages that these areas provide.

Types of companies that can be established in the Free Zone

Type of Companythe descriptionAdvantages
Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)Establishing a company owned by an individual or several partners.Personal liability protection, flexibility in stock distribution.
BranchA branch of an existing company outside the Free Zone or outside the Emirates.Easy expansion, no need for new capital.
Wholly owned free enterprise (FZE/FZCO)Single-partner (FZE) or multi-partner (FZCO) companies.100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, simplified procedures.
Representative OfficeAn office that represents the parent company without practicing commercial activities.Focus on marketing and public relations, no need for capital.
Sole EstablishmentA company owned and operated by one person.Sole ownership and management, simplicity of establishment and management.

By choosing the right type of company in the Free Zone, investors can benefit from the favorable economic environment and facilities offered by these areas to ensure the success of their business in Dubai.

Documents necessary to establish a company in Free Zone Dubai

To establish a company in the Free Zone in Dubai, the following documents are usually required:

  1. You must complete and submit the registration request form for the specific Free Zone you wish to submit.
  2. A copy of the passports of all shareholders of the proposed company must be provided.
  3. You may have to submit a residence permit application form for shareholders and the proposed general manager of the company.
  4. He usually needs to submit a detailed business plan outlining the nature of the proposed business and the planned business activities.
  5. You must specify the name of the proposed company and ensure that it is available and complies with the laws and requirements of the Free Zone.
  6. You may be required to provide details about the proposed financial contribution to the company and the type of company you wish to establish (limited company, limited liability company, sole proprietorship, etc.).
  7. You may need to submit bank forms and documents confirming the ability to finance the company and secure the required capital.

These documents may vary slightly depending on the specific Free Zone and the type of company you wish to establish. It is recommended that you contact the specific Free Zone you wish to join to obtain specific information about the requirements and procedures necessary to establish a company in that Free Zone.

The difference between establishing a company in Dubai and the free zone

Free zones in Dubai offer a favorable investment environment for foreign investors due to full ownership. There is a clear difference between establishing a company in Dubai and establishing it in a free zone. Let me summarize for you the main differences between them:

ElementEstablishing a company in DubaiEstablishing a company in the free zone
Company ownershipThere must be a certain local partner (sponsor)The company can be 100% owned by foreign investors without the need for a local partner.
TaxesSubject to the federal tax system and value added tax (VAT)You enjoy full tax exemptions for a specified period of time, and these exemptions may last for several years.
LicensesYou need local government licenses and approvalsProviding licenses and approvals easily and quickly while providing government facilities.
Laws and regulationsMust comply with Dubai government laws and regulationsThe Free Zone issues independent laws and regulations that support investment and economic development.
Visas and employmentStrict policies apply to visas and work permitsProvides facilities for issuing visas and work permits for foreign employees.
Establishment costsCosts may be higher due to government fees and legal requirementsCosts may be relatively lower due to tax breaks and government facilities.

Free zones in Dubai

When looking to set up a company in Dubai , choosing the right free zone is vital. Each free zone offers different features and benefits that suit the needs of different companies. For example, some free zones can be characterized by a focus on logistics industries and international trade, while others focus on innovation and technology.

Dubai free zones provide a range of benefits, such as:

  • Full Ownership: Companies can own 100% without needing a local partner.
  • Tax exemptions: Corporations enjoy full or partial tax exemptions for specified periods of time.
  • Ease of procedures: Free zones provide simplified and quick establishment and licensing procedures.
  • Logistics facilities: Provides advanced infrastructure and facilities for shipping and storage.
  • Access to global markets: Free zones help expand business and reach regional and global markets.
  • Visa facilities: Provides facilities for issuing visas and work permits for foreign employees.
  • Advanced infrastructure: Free zones are characterized by advanced infrastructure that supports companies in performing their work with high efficiency.

In short, establishing a company in Dubai\’s free zones represents an excellent investment option that provides many opportunities and competitive advantages for emerging and expanding companies.

Itqan Company helps you establish a company in the Free Zone

Itqan Company provides specialized services to help establish companies in the Free Zone in Dubai. Here\’s how Itqan can help you with this work:

  1. Establishment consultations: First and foremost, Itqan Company provides specialized consultations to help you understand the requirements for establishing a company in the Free Zone, including legal, financial, and administrative procedures.
  2. Ownership arrangements: Itqan also provides support in ownership arrangements for the company, including helping you obtain local partners if these requirements are required.
  3. Organizing documents and transactions: Therefore, Itqan Company helps you organize and prepare all the documents and transactions necessary to establish the company, including submitting applications and preparing agreements and documents.
  4. Registration and licensing procedures: Itqan Company also assists in government registration procedures and obtaining the necessary licenses to start working in the Free Zone.
  5. Legal consultations: Therefore, Itqan Company provides specialized legal consultations to ensure compliance with all laws and legal regulations in the Free Zone.
  6. Financial Services: Itqan Company also provides financial services such as opening commercial bank accounts, account management, taxes, and accounting.
  7. General support services: Then in addition, Itqan Company provides general support services such as human resources management, recruitment, training and development.
  8. Business Expansion: Also over time, Itqan Company provides business expansion services and strategic consulting to help you develop and expand your company’s activities in the Free Zone.

In short, Itqan Company offers a comprehensive range of services to assist you in all aspects of establishing and operating a company in the Free Zone in Dubai, making it easier for you to start and make your business successful in this favorable investment environment.

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Establishing a company in the free zone

Establishing your company in the Free Zone

At the conclusion of our article, after exploring the stages of establishing your company in the Free Zone, you have now reached a decisive turning point, where dream meets reality. The opportunity that the Dubai Free Zone gives you is an opportunity to build a bright future for your business and realize your entrepreneurial dreams.

In short, opening your business in this favorable environment means benefiting from tax breaks, obtaining licenses easily, and enjoying flexibility in management and operation. It also represents the opportunity to reach a wide global market and build strong business networks.

However, the real challenge remains continuity and growth. Do not just establish the company, but maintain innovation and development, and invest in developing your skills and your work team. You may face challenges, but they will be opportunities to learn and grow.

In the end, establishing your company in the Free Zone is not just a business step, but rather the beginning of a journey full of challenges and opportunities, and if you can take advantage of the available advantages and deal wisely with the challenges, you will have a real chance for success and prosperity in the business world.

Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in the Free Zone

1. What is a free zone?

The Free Zone is a special economic zone that provides investors with many advantages such as full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, export and import facilities, and advanced infrastructure.

2. What are the main advantages of establishing a company in the Free Zone?

  • 100% foreign ownership.
  • Tax exemption on income and profits for a specified period.
  • Full return of profits and capital. No restrictions on currency.
  • Facilitations in employment and visas.
  • Advanced infrastructure and high-quality logistics services.

3. What are the basic steps to establish a company in the Free Zone?

Choosing the appropriate free zone: Choose the free zone that suits the nature of your business. Determine the type of license: Determine the type of business activity and obtain the appropriate license (commercial, industrial, service, etc.). Trade name registration: Choosing and registering the company name. Submit the required documents: including passports, business plans, lease contracts, and other necessary documents. Obtaining the necessary approvals: from the competent authorities in the free zone. Completing the establishment procedures: paying the fees and receiving the license.

4. What are the documents required to establish a company in the Free Zone?

Establishment application form. Copies of passports of all partners and shareholders. Action Plan. Lease contract or articles of incorporation. Personal Photos. No objection certificate (if any).

5. What are the costs associated with establishing a company in the Free Zone?

Costs include registration fees, business license fees, office or commercial space costs, and fees for other services such as visas and permits. These costs vary based on the free zone and type of business.