Setting up a business in the UAE offers unmatched advantages—100% foreign ownership, zero income tax, easy banking, and strategic global connectivity. But for startups and entrepreneurs, choosing the right Free Zone can make a huge difference in cost, flexibility, and success.
This guide compares the Top 5 UAE Free Zones in 2025, with updated costs and benefits, to help you make the best decision for your business setup in UAE.
What is a UAE Free Zone?
A Free Zone is a designated business area where foreign investors can enjoy 100% ownership, simplified licensing, and tax benefits. These zones cater to specific industries and offer flexible packages with visa options, making company registration in Dubai and other Emirates more startup-friendly.
1. IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) – Dubai
Why it’s great: One of the most flexible and affordable Free Zones in Dubai.
Benefits:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Wide activity list: tech, trading, consulting, media, etc.
- No requirement to be physically present in UAE to register
- Smart packages with or without visa
- Office options from Flexi-desk to full workspace
Estimated Setup Cost in 2025:
Starting from AED 12,900 (Zero Visa Package)
Ideal for:
Tech startups, consultants, freelancers, and e-commerce entrepreneurs who want a Dubai address and reputation with low costs.
2. RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
Why it’s great: Budget-friendly with a wide range of sectors and easy bank account setup.
Benefits:
- Most cost-effective Free Zone in the UAE
- Business license starts without visa
- Shared workspaces and warehouses available
- Supportive of industrial and manufacturing businesses
- Easy company registration without UAE visit (remotely possible)
Estimated Setup Cost in 2025:
Starting from AED 6,500 (Zero Visa Package)
Ideal for:
Cost-conscious startups, manufacturing units, and online service providers looking to scale quickly.
3. SHAMS (Sharjah Media City)
Why it’s great: Built for creatives, media businesses, and freelancers.
Benefits:
- 100% foreign ownership
- Over 200+ business activities including digital marketing, media, design
- Affordable license options with or without visa
- Quick online company registration process
Estimated Setup Cost in 2025:
Starting from AED 8,050 (Zero Visa Package)
Ideal for:
YouTubers, designers, digital marketers, influencers, and solo entrepreneurs who want a UAE license with minimal overhead.
4. DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre)
Why it’s great: Dubai’s premium Free Zone, known for global trading and financial credibility.
Benefits:
- Award-winning Free Zone with premium office options
- Ideal for commodities trading, finance, crypto, and gold businesses
- Access to Dubai’s top-notch infrastructure and international business hubs
- High chance of corporate bank account approvals
Estimated Setup Cost in 2025:
Starting from AED 25,000+ (Basic Package)
Ideal for:
High-growth trading businesses, crypto startups, and those seeking prestige and top-level banking.
5. Ajman Free Zone (AFZ)
Why it’s great: Very economical and ideal for logistics, consultancy, and trading.
Benefits:
- One of the most affordable Free Zones
- Easy access to seaports and airports
- Visa packages available at low cost
- No audit requirement for most small businesses
Estimated Setup Cost in 2025:
Starting from AED 6,000 (Zero Visa Package)
Ideal for:
Entry-level entrepreneurs, Indian traders, consultants, and logistics businesses.
Quick Comparison Table
| Free Zone | Starting Cost | Visa Option | Ideal For |
| IFZA, Dubai | AED 12,900 | Optional | Tech & consultants |
| RAKEZ | AED 6,500 | Optional | Traders, industrial |
| SHAMS | AED 8,050 | Optional | Creatives & freelancers |
| DMCC, Dubai | AED 25,000+ | Yes | Traders, crypto, HNIs |
| Ajman Free Zone | AED 6,000 | Optional | Budget startups |
Final Tips Before You Choose
- If you want low cost + remote setup, go for RAKEZ or Ajman Free Zone.
- If you need Dubai branding, IFZA or DMCC are your best bets.
- For creative work or freelancing, SHAMS offers the best value.
Ready to Launch Your UAE Business in 2025?
At E-Startup.ae, we help entrepreneurs like you complete company registration in Dubai or other Emirates in just a few days—100% online. From choosing the right Free Zone to getting your license, visa, and bank account, we handle everything.
Start your business setup in UAE now – hassle-free, fast, and affordable.
