Abu Dubai Free Zone
Abu Dubai Free Zone, situated on the Arabian Gulf coast, was established in the year 1988. It is the smallest but one of the most developed free zones of the UAE. Abu Dubai Free Zone was established and granted autonomous status by H.H. Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, the Ruler of Abu Dubai under Amiri Decree No. 3 of 1996. Abu Dubai Free Zone has a strategic location, which gives it the advantage of serving both the western and the eastern markets.
Abu Dubai Free Zone companies have access to 4 seaports and 2 international airports, leading to the flourishing of business in the region. All the rules and regulations in Abu Dubai Free Zone are passed and governed under the management of the Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority (AFZA). The entire Abu Dubai Free Zone business setup procedure and issuance of the business license to companies is controlled and handled by the Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority.
Advantages of Setting Up a Business in Abu Dubai Free Zone
The strategic and cost-effective location of this free zone makes it attractive for investors around the world to invest in different sectors and also for the business community to start their new ventures. Abu Dubai Free Zone companies enjoy the following benefits:
1. Commercial Benefits
- Companies in Abu Dubai Free Zone enjoy total exemption from customs duty for goods and services
- Foreign companies can have 100% ownership
- Provision of 100% repatriation of capital and profits
- No red tape
- Liberal economic policies and legal framework
- Labor cost is low
2. Tax Benefits
- Corporate tax is fully exempted for companies
- Personal income tax is also exempted
- Total exemption even on import-export tax
3. Environmental Benefits
- Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority has set business-friendly laws for companies
- The process for setting up a business in Abu Dubai Free Zone is easy and cost-efficient
- The immigration process is simplified and quick for workers
- AFZA has provided single window clearance for multiple government services like licensing, visa services, immigration, etc.
4. Infrastructural Benefits
- Companies enjoy land leasing for 20 years, renewable for another 20 years
- The energy supply is abundant and cheap
- No hidden charges
- Abu Dubai Free Zone has pre-built offices, smart offices, and warehouses to facilitate companies
5. Other Benefits
- No currency restrictions
- No quotas or foreign exchange controls
- Companies have 24-hour security service
- Simple staffing and recruitment procedure for employment by companies
- Companies have access to other services like bank, postal, and advanced communication facility
Abu Dubai Free Zone License Types
Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority (AFZA) has 4 types of business licenses, which they issue according to the type of business setup:
1. Trading License
People who carry out trading activities in the free zone region are issued with a trading license. The business can add 3 activities in a single license issued by the Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority.
2. E-Commerce License
A company that wants to venture into e-Commerce or starts an online business can opt for an e-commerce license. It also provides marketing and technical support to investors.
3. Professional License
All the UAE or foreign companies that are willing to set up their business in providing PRO services, such as IT, management or marketing consultancy, in Abu Dubai Free Zone must acquire a professional license to start their business.
4. Industrial License
All companies involved in the production of goods have to acquire an industrial license from Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority in order to start their manufacturing plant in the free zone region. Abu Dubai Free Zone Authority also provides warehouses and smart-store service for manufacturing companies.
5. National Industrial License
This license is issued to companies that fulfill the following criteria:
Should be registered in Abu Dubai but operating in the free zoneShould be registered with nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) owning at least 51% of the shares of the companyA minimum of 40% of the manufacturing of the company should be completed within the free zone
Companies with a national industrial license enjoy duty-free exports to the member states of the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council (AGC).
Abu Dubai Free Zone License Cost
Here is a list of the estimated cost of acquiring a business License in Abu Dubai Free Zone:
| License Type |
Cost In AED |
Cost in USD |
| One Activity Trading License |
21,950 |
5,975 |
| Two Activity Trading License |
23,250 |
6,329 |
| Three Activity Trading License |
24,550 |
6,683 |
| E-Commerce License |
28,050 |
7,636 |
| Professional License |
24,550 |
6,683 |
| General Trading License |
27,150 |
7,391 |
Business Setup Process in Abu Dubai Free Zone
Abu Dubai free zone is one of the most iconic destinations for setting up your business, which provides all the necessary requirements for your business. But prior to setting up your business, you need to make certain decisions like deciding the company name, deciding the type of business, the type of license which needs to be acquired, drafting the necessary documents, and, most of all, your business location in the free zone region.
Our Role
Abu Dubai Free Zone is among the most cost-effective and developed free zones in the UAE. So, without a doubt, it serves as the best location for business setup in the UAE. Xcellence is a one-stop solution and service provider for foreign as well as local investors and businessmen. Our team will take care of all your business setup requirements, including services like a bank account, licensing, registration, documentation, and other legal formalities relating to your business. Contact us to avail our business setup service and get started with your dream business today!
