Starting a Business in a Free Zone | Set up a Company in UAE Free Zones

Few Questions to ask before you decide on which free zone in Dubai or UAE to choose?

Are you looking for an industry-specific Freezone?
Are you looking for a general freezone?
Is the freezone reputable?
Is the freezone able to offer Customisable business packages?
Does the freezone have quick and simplified administrative processes?
Does the freezone provide the option of setting up a Virtual office or Flexi desk?
How much is it going to cost me to set up and operate?
What is the year two and onwards costs?
Is the free zone physically close to my residence?
Is the free zone 100% and fully transparent about their pricing?
Can I do open a business / corporate bank account if I choose the dream freezone?
How much time will be required to complete the business setup process?
Do you wish to get a visa or hire employees?
Are there options for single entrepreneurs?
Are there options for working to be entrepreneurs?
Does any of your business activity fall under the Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)?
The Relevant Activities under the Economic Substance Regulations are:

- Banking Businesses

- Insurance Businesses

- Investment Fund Management Businesses

- Lease-Finance Businesses

- Headquarters Businesses

- Shipping Businesses

- Holding Company Businesses

- Intellectual Property (IP) Businesses

- Distribution and Service Centre Businesses

If a licensee does not undertake any Relevant Activity, it does not have to comply with the ESR.