40+ Freezones. One Team That Knows Them All.
NUBIZ holds direct channel partnerships with leading UAE freezone authorities — IFZA, Meydan, DMCC, ADGM, JAFZA and more. We don't just advise on which freezone fits your business — we submit directly into their portals.
Your own regulatory zone — built for foreign investment
A freezone is a designated economic area that operates under its own independent regulatory authority, separate from the mainland licensing system. The UAE has 45+ freezones across all seven emirates — each issues its own licenses, sets its own fees, and maintains its own activity list.
Freezones were created to attract foreign investment with 100% foreign ownership. The mainland has since largely caught up on ownership — but freezones still hold real advantages in cost, speed, tax, and flexibility.
A path to 0% corporate tax on qualifying income
The UAE introduced 9% corporate tax in 2023 — but freezone companies can access a 0% rate on qualifying income by meeting the Qualifying Free Zone Person conditions:
- ✓Registered in a UAE freezone
- ✓Earns qualifying income (international / other freezone trade)
- ✓Maintains adequate economic substance in the UAE
- ✓Non-qualifying income stays below 5% of total income
The Core Decision — Where Are Your Customers?
| Mainland | Freezone | Offshore | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade in UAE | ✓ Anywhere | Limited | ✗ Not permitted |
| 100% foreign ownership | ✓ Most sectors | ✓ Always | ✓ Always |
| UAE residency visa | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✗ No |
| Physical office required | ✓ Mandatory | Flexi-desk OK | ✗ Not needed |
| Government contracts | ✓ Eligible | ✗ Not eligible | ✗ Not eligible |
| Corporate tax | 9% on profit | 0% qualifying | 0% foreign income |
| Setup speed | 10–15 days | 1–7 days | 3–10 days |
| Best for | UAE market access | International business | Holding & assets |
Explore the Freezones We Work With
Not all freezones are equal — location credibility, activity specialisation, cost, and physical infrastructure vary widely. Here are the eight we know inside out.
Not Sure Which Freezone?
Our consultants map your business model to the right freezone in a free 30-minute call.
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