# Dubai Freezones — IFZA & MEYDAN at List Prices Source: https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai/freezone/ Generated: 2026-06-01 Language: en Summary: IFZA and Meydan Free Zone compared by location, pricing posture, activity coverage and founder fit. Corporate-tax treatment depends on QFZP, Small Business Relief and other conditions. Note: This Markdown file is generated from the canonical HTML page for LLM retrieval. The HTML page is the canonical source for current prices, legal/tax details, source links and conversion flows. Accuracy notes: - Corporate-tax status is conditional. Free Zone ownership is not the same as automatic 0% Corporate Tax; use the Corporate Tax/QFZP guide for the current statutory conditions. # The Best Dubai Freezones for Your Business Foundster provides official company formation in the two leading multi-sector freezones: IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) and MEYDAN. Both options at list prices without markups. Start Company Formation Now Quartett • Dubai Freezones ## MEYDAN Near Downtown Dubai A Activities 2200 B Base price from 12.500 AED C Speed 95 D Location 90 Quartett • Dubai Freezones ## IFZA Dubai Silicon Oasis A Activities 850 B Base price from 11.900 AED C Speed 85 D Location 75 1. [Home](https://foundster.com/) 2. [Company Formation](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai/) 3. Freezone Before picking a free zone, sort out the structural question first. [Free Zone vs Mainland — which structure fits your business →](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai/guide/freezone-vs-mainland/) ## Find the Perfect Freezone for Your Business Both freezones offer 100% foreign ownership; 0% UAE Corporate Tax applies only where QFZP, Small Business Relief or other statutory conditions are met. from 11,900 AED ### IFZA International Free Zone Authority One of Dubai's largest freezones with over 60,000 companies, strategically located in Dubai Digital Park. IFZA offers 800+ business activities and regularly conducts attractive promotions like 'Visa Free for Life' campaigns. - Over 60,000 companies registered - 800+ business activities - Regular 'Visa Free for Life' promotions from 12,580 AED ### MEYDAN Meydan Free Zone Exclusive freezone established 2009 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Ruler's Decree), operated by Meydan Group (founded 2007 by Saeed Humaid Al Tayer). Strategically located at Dubai World Cup racecourse with access to 5-star facilities. - Founded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum - Operated by Meydan Group (since 2007) - Exclusive location at Dubai World Cup ### Coming Soon New Freezone ### Coming Soon New Freezone ## Where Should Your Freezone Be Located? Choose the perfect location for your Dubai company. Both IFZA and MEYDAN offer strategic advantages with easy access to Dubai's business districts. ### IFZA Business Park Building A1, IFZA Business Park, Dubai Silicon Oasis Key Features: 24/7 Business Support Free Parking Available 18 min to DXB Airport 18 min to Dubai Mall View on Map Get Directions ### MEYDAN Freezone Al Meydan Road, Nad Al Sheba 1, Dubai Key Features: 5-Star Hotel Access Premium Location 16 min to DXB Airport 12 min to Dubai Mall View on Map Get Directions ## What is a Dubai Freezone ? Everything you need to know about Dubai Freezones - explained simply and clearly. ### Definition and Concept A Dubai Freezone is a special economic zone within the United Arab Emirates that offers unique business opportunities to foreign investors. These strategically planned zones were created by the UAE government as part of Vision 2071 to attract international companies and establish Dubai as a global trading hub. While certain business activities have been possible on the UAE mainland without a local sponsor since 2020 (through the new Commercial Companies Law), Freezones continue to offer the most straightforward solution for **100% foreign ownership**. The key advantage of Freezones lies in their comprehensive business freedom, **simplified incorporation processes and structured tax planning options**, which are often subject to more complex regulations on the mainland. **Each Freezone functions as an independent jurisdiction with its own laws and regulations**, which international companies particularly appreciate. This autonomous structure enables Freezones to respond quickly to market needs and offer tailored solutions for different industries. **The Freezone concept was pioneered in 1985 with Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and has since expanded to over 30 specialized zones across Dubai**. As part of the UAE Vision 2071 strategic framework, the government promotes Freezones as central pillars of the future economy, with continuous infrastructure development and enhanced digital services to maintain Dubai's position as the world's leading international business hub. #### 100% Foreign Ownership Complete control without local UAE partner or sponsor required #### Independent Jurisdiction Each freezone with own laws and tailored solutions #### UAE Vision 2071 Strategic government initiative for global trading hub Dubai ### Main Benefits of a Freezone Dubai Freezones offer exceptional business advantages that make them the first choice for international entrepreneurs. The most important benefit is **100% foreign ownership without a local UAE partner or sponsor**, enabling complete control over business decisions. **UAE Corporate Tax is generally 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above that threshold; Small Business Relief may apply for eligible UAE-resident businesses with revenue of AED 3 million or less for tax periods ending on or before 31 December 2026**. Individuals pay no income tax on their salary or capital gains. Complete profit repatriation occurs without restrictions or additional taxes. **The [company formation process](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai) is greatly simplified with minimal bureaucracy - formation typically takes between 1 and 5 working days depending on the Freezone**. UAE Residence Visas can be sponsored for business owners, investors and employees, creating long-term residence rights. Additionally, [Freezone companies](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai) benefit from 100% foreign currency repatriation, no foreign exchange restrictions, and the ability to conduct business in any currency. **Freezone companies can also qualify for the 0% QFZP regime on Qualifying Income, but only if all statutory conditions are met, including substance, qualifying income, transfer-pricing compliance, audited financial statements and the de-minimis threshold**. The strategic location between Europe, Asia and Africa makes Dubai the ideal hub for international business. #### Corporate Tax Threshold 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000; 9% above #### 1-5 Business Days Setup Highly simplified process with minimal bureaucracy #### Full Profit Repatriation Without restrictions or additional taxes ### Different Types of Freezones Dubai offers **over 45 different Freezones**, each with its own specialization and unique advantages for different business models. General multi-sector Freezones like IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) and MEYDAN allow diverse business activities from trading to consulting to e-commerce and are **ideal for startups and SMEs due to their cost-effective structure**. **Specialized zones focus on specific industries and offer tailored infrastructure**: DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is the world's largest Freezone network for commodities and precious metals with over 19,000 companies. Dubai Media City hosts international media corporations like CNN, Reuters and BBC. Dubai Internet City is the Silicon Valley of the Middle East with technology giants like Google, Microsoft and Meta. DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) is a leading financial center with its own legal system based on English Common Law. Other important Freezones include Dubai South for aviation and logistics, Dubai Healthcare City for medical services, and Dubai Design District for creative industries. [The company formation process](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai) depends on factors such as industry, target market, budget and required infrastructure. Many Freezones also offer special incubation programs and mentoring for innovative startups. **Each Freezone provides different advantages: IFZA and MEYDAN are known for their competitive pricing and comprehensive business activity licenses, while specialized zones like DMCC and DIFC offer industry-specific benefits and premium networking opportunities with established multinational corporations**. #### 45+ Different Freezones Each with unique specialization and benefits #### Ideal for Startups & SMEs Multi-sector freezones with cost-effective structure #### Tailored Infrastructure Specialized zones for specific industries and technologies ### Company Formation in Freezones [Company formation in Dubai](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai) Freezones is significantly easier than on the UAE mainland and is characterized by minimal bureaucracy. **The entire process typically takes between 1 and 5 working days depending on the Freezone and requires no physical presence in Dubai**. The special feature: **You only need your passport as the sole personal document**. All other legal documents such as the Memorandum of Association, Board Resolutions and employment contracts are created by the Freezones themselves based on your information. The founder simply needs to fill out a simple online application and specify the desired business activity. Different license types are available: Trading License for trade and import/export, Service License for consulting and services, and Industrial License for production and manufacturing. Many Freezones also offer combination licenses that unite multiple activities under one license. The entire formation process runs digitally - from application to document creation to license issuance. **With Foundster, you benefit from direct formation at the [official list price of the respective Freezone](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai/pricing) without hidden markups or broker fees**. Foundster has direct access to all major Freezones and can offer you the most transparent prices on the market. After formation, you receive all documents electronically and can start doing business immediately. #### 1-5 Days Without Presence No physical presence in Dubai required #### Only Passport Needed Single personal document - all others created by freezone #### Foundster List Price Advantage Direct access without hidden markups or broker fees ### Tax Position Dubai Freezones can offer strong tax outcomes, but the details depend on UAE Corporate Tax rules and the company's revenue mix. According to Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022, UAE Corporate Tax is generally **0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000** and 9% above that threshold. A Freezone company may access the **0% QFZP regime on Qualifying Income** only if it meets all statutory conditions, including adequate substance, Qualifying Income, transfer-pricing compliance, audited financial statements and the de-minimis threshold. Distribution of goods is QFZP-qualifying only when performed in or from a Designated Zone; IFZA and Meydan are not treated on this site as Designated Zones for that purpose. For smaller companies, Small Business Relief can apply to eligible UAE-resident businesses with annual revenue of AED 3 million or less for tax periods ending on or before 31 December 2026. **Individuals pay no UAE personal income tax on salaries or capital gains**. For VAT, Designated Zones can receive special goods-treatment, while the standard VAT rate is 5%. There are also no UAE foreign-exchange restrictions, no UAE capital-gains tax, no inheritance tax and no withholding tax. The UAE has signed many double-taxation agreements and bilateral investment treaties, but founders should still check home-country CFC, residency and exit-tax rules before relying on a UAE structure. #### Corporate Tax Threshold 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000; 9% above #### QFZP Regime 0% only on Qualifying Income if all statutory conditions are met #### No Income Tax Individuals pay 0% on salaries and capital gains ### Visa and Residence Rights Dubai [Freezone companies](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai) offer **two main visa options for international entrepreneurs and professionals**. The Employment Visa is ideal for employees and is sponsored by the Freezone company. It has a validity period of 2 years and is renewable as long as the employment relationship exists. The requirement is a minimum salary of AED 4,000 monthly. This visa binds the holder to the employer and allows work exclusively for the sponsoring company. The Investor Visa, on the other hand, is aimed at business owners and entrepreneurs who acquire a stake in a Freezone company. It is also valid for 2 years and requires a minimum share capital of AED 50,000. As an investor, you are self-employed and not bound to an employer. **Both visa types allow family reunification for spouses and children**, provided appropriate income and accommodation proof is provided. The process includes Emirates ID application, medical testing and biometric registration. Family sponsorship is possible for spouses and children subject to income and accommodation requirements. **The visa application process runs completely digitally through the Freezone authorities and typically takes 2-4 weeks**. Many Freezones offer special promotions such as free visas for the first year or reduced minimum requirements. Special Freezone promotions can provide excellent value, such as IFZA's "Visa Free for Life" campaigns or MEYDAN's fast-track processing options. A UAE residence visa allows you to open a bank account, obtain a driving license, and access all local services within the Emirates. With Foundster, you benefit from direct support with visa applications and all required documents at [transparent list prices](https://foundster.com/company-formation/uae/dubai/pricing) without hidden fees. **Foundster's partnerships with Freezones ensure optimal residence solutions and transparent pricing through direct access to all major Dubai Freezones**. #### Employment Visa 2 years valid, 4,000 AED minimum salary, employer-sponsored #### Investor Visa 2 years valid, 50,000 AED share capital, self-sponsored #### Family Sponsorship Available Spouse and children with income and housing proof ### Office and Location Options **Freezones provide flexible office solutions** for different budgets and business needs. **Most basic licenses include a Unit Lease Agreement for a virtual office**, which is particularly cost-effective for international entrepreneurs. The positive aspect: **Most Unit Lease Agreements do not indicate that it is a virtual office** - which is advantageous for substance proof and international tax purposes. Beyond virtual offices, various options are available: Flexi Desk solutions offer shared co-working spaces for occasional office use, ideal for companies requiring periodic physical presence. Shared Offices provide dedicated workspace for small teams with access to meeting rooms and networking areas. Private Offices cater to larger companies needing confidential workspace and storage facilities. **Many Freezones offer state-of-the-art business centers with modern amenities: high-speed internet, reception services, conference facilities, and networking areas**. All options provide professional business addresses, comprehensive mail handling services, and meeting rooms as needed. **The Unit Lease Agreement typically fulfills physical presence requirements even with virtual offices, eliminating the need for costly physical space while ensuring substance for international tax purposes**. The choice of office solution depends on individual requirements, company size, desired services, and whether face-to-face client meetings are essential for your business model. #### Individual Office Solutions Each freezone offers tailored options for different budgets #### Unit Lease Agreement Included Virtual office usually included in basic license #### Substance Advantage Virtual office not identifiable on Unit Lease Agreement ### Banking and Account Opening **UAE Corporate Bank Accounts can only be opened if the General Manager has a UAE Residency Visa**. This is a fundamental requirement of all local banks in the United Arab Emirates. **Foundster recommends Wio Bank here** - a modern digital-first bank founded in 2022 by Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB). Wio Bank is specifically aimed at startups and SMEs and offers fully digital account openings, low minimum balances, free local transfers and innovative banking tools via a user-friendly app. As a subsidiary of ADCB, Wio Bank benefits from the stability of an established bank while providing modern, agile service. **For customers without UAE Residency, international providers like currenxie.com** remain the best alternative. Currenxie is a Singapore-regulated fintech provider specializing in Freezone companies, offering multi-currency accounts, cost-effective international transfers and modern online banking tools. **Foundster supports with both options** - both local account opening with Wio Bank for residents and the international solution with currenxie.com for non-residents. #### UAE Residency Required General Manager needs UAE visa for local bank accounts #### Wio Bank for Residents Modern digital bank with startup-focused service #### Currenxie for Non-Residents International fintech solution for freezone companies ### Compliance and Ongoing Obligations **Every Freezone company must register for Corporate Tax within 3 months of formation** - otherwise penalties of AED 10,000 apply. Dubai Freezone companies must file annual Corporate Tax returns, even if no taxes are due. **Monthly bookkeeping is legally required** and must be properly maintained. Additionally, annual compliance reports must be submitted and licenses renewed. Economic Substance Regulations (ESR) apply to certain activities such as holding businesses, intellectual property and financial services. **Foundster offers comprehensive compliance services** - from Corporate Tax registration to monthly bookkeeping to annual tax returns. Foundster's CompanyCockpit Platform helps manage all ongoing obligations and deadlines so you can focus on your core business. #### 3-Month Deadline Corporate Tax Registration within 3 months #### AED 10,000 Penalty For late Corporate Tax Registration #### Foundster Services Complete compliance support available ### Long-term Perspectives and Expansion **Dubai Freezones are strategically integrated into UAE Vision 2071 and Dubai Economic Agenda D33** - two official government strategies for the coming decades. UAE Vision 2071, launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is based on four pillars: future-oriented government, excellent education, diversified knowledge economy and a happy society. **The goal: to make the UAE the best country in the world by 2071**. In parallel, according to the D33 agenda, Dubai is to double its economy (to AED 32 trillion) by 2033 and rank among the top 3 global business cities. Over 40 UAE Freezones benefit from massive infrastructure investments, digital transformation and focus on future sectors such as AI, blockchain, green energy and fintech. **The Dubai Unified License will enable seamless business between different Freezones in the future**. With the geographical location between Europe, Asia and Africa, the emerging Area 2071 Innovation Center and the goal of 100% clean energy by 2050, Dubai Freezones create an unparalleled long-term business environment. **Foundster positions customers optimally for these future developments through direct access to leading Freezones at transparent list prices**. #### UAE Vision 2071 Become world's best country by 2071 #### Dubai D33 Agenda Double economy by 2033 #### Area 2071 Innovation Future hub for global innovations ## Ready for Your Dubai Freezone Company Formation? Foundster handles the complete digital company setup at official freezone list prices. Start Company Formation Now