What UAE Free Zones Actually Offer

The UAE has more than 40 free zones, and they are not interchangeable. Before choosing one, it is worth checking four things specifically.

Permitted activities

Every free zone publishes a list of licensable activities. Some are broad (general trading, consulting); others are built around a specific sector (media, technology, logistics). Your activity needs to be on the list.

Visa quota

How many visas a licence carries usually depends on your office type - a flexi desk carries fewer than a physical office. If you plan to sponsor several employees early, confirm the quota before committing.

Office requirement

Some zones require a minimum physical office; others allow a flexi desk or virtual office indefinitely. This affects both cost and where your team can legally be based.

Renewal terms

First-year pricing is not always representative of ongoing costs - ask what renewal looks like before signing.