Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Free Zone Company in Dubai
Dubai’s Free Zones offer an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors seeking 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified business operations. Setting up your company in a Free Zone can be a fast and efficient process if you know the exact steps, the required documents, and the timelines.
At Al Tawkel Center, we’ve helped hundreds of clients successfully start their Free Zone businesses in Dubai. Here’s a complete, easy-to-follow breakdown of the entire procedure, so you know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Select an Appropriate Free Zone and Establish Your Business Focus
Timeline: 1–2 days
Dubai is home to over 30 specialized Free Zones, serving sectors like tech, finance, media, logistics, and beyond.
Documents Needed:
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
- Clear description of your intended business activity
At Al Tawkel Center, our experts help you select the Free Zone that best fits your business goals, office needs, and visa quotas — ensuring a seamless start.
Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name and Submit Application
Timeline: 1–3 days
Once your Free Zone is selected, the next step is to reserve your company name and submit your initial application. The Free Zone Authority will verify your proposed business activity and company name to ensure compliance.
Documents Needed:
- Completed application form (provided by Free Zone)
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Proposed company name(s) for approval
- Business plan or brief company profile (required by some Free Zones)
Al Tawkel Center guides you in choosing and reserving the perfect company name, increasing the chance of quick approval.
Step 3: Receive Initial Approval and Prepare Legal Documents
Timeline: 2–5 days
Once your application passes initial review, you’ll receive an approval notification. This step enables you to draft and complete essential legal documents, such as the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Shareholder Agreement.
Documents Needed:
- Drafted MOA and Shareholder Agreement (can be prepared with Al Tawkel Center’s legal support)
- Lease agreement or tenancy contract (if office space is required at this stage)
- Power of Attorney, in case you’re authorizing someone to act on your behalf.
Our legal team at Al Tawkel Center ensures that all documents comply with Free Zone regulations, speeding up the approval process.
Step 4: Secure Office Space (Physical or Flexi-Desk)
Timeline: 1–3 days
Most Free Zones require physical office space or flexi-desk options to complete the licensing process. This can range from a small, shared workspace to a full-fledged office.
Documents Needed:
- Passport copies
- Initial approval letter from Free Zone Authority
- Signed lease or tenancy agreement
Al Tawkel Center offers expert assistance in finding and securing the right office space or flexi-desk package tailored to your business needs and budget.
Step 5: Pay Fees and Obtain Your Trade License
Timeline: 1–3 days
With all documents ready and office space secured, the next step is to pay the applicable Free Zone fees, including licensing, registration, and visa fees. Once payment is confirmed, your trade license will be issued by the Free Zone authority.
Documents Needed:
- Completed application and approval forms
- Payment receipts
- Copy of lease agreement
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
Al Tawkel Center handles the payment process and follows up with Free Zone Authorities to ensure you receive your trade license without delays.
Step 6: Apply for Visas and Complete Immigration Procedures
Timeline: 7–14 days
After obtaining your trade license, you can start the visa application process for yourself, employees, and dependents. This involves medical tests, Emirates ID registration, and residency visa stamping.
Documents Needed:
- Trade license copy
- Passport copies
- Completed visa application forms
- Medical fitness test certificates
- Proof of tenancy or accommodation
Our PRO services at Al Tawkel Center manage all visa and immigration formalities, helping you get your residence visas quickly and efficiently.
Overall Timeline: 10 to 21 Days (Depending on Free Zone & Business Type)
Why Choose Al Tawkel Center for Your Free Zone Company Setup?
Starting a company in Dubai’s Free Zones is straightforward — but the paperwork, approvals, and legal requirements can be overwhelming without the right support. Al Tawkel Center offers end-to-end assistance to make your business setup smooth, fast, and hassle-free.
Our comprehensive services include:
- Free Zone and business activity consultation
- Complete document preparation and submission
- Liaison with Free Zone Authorities and government departments
- Office space leasing assistance
- Expert PRO services for handling visas, Emirates ID processing, and all official approvals.
With our expert team by your side, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the red tape.
Ready to Start Your Dubai Free Zone Company?
Launch your business in Dubai with confidence. Al Tawkel Center is here to simplify the process for you. We’re your trusted partner in making the Dubai Free Zone setup process quick, easy, and successful.