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Dubai free zones are specialized economic areas that offer investors a business-friendly environment supported by their strategic location and world-class infrestructure. These zones provide investors with tax-free business opportunities for the qualifying income. However, investors have to pay 9% corporate tax with nonqualified income if it exceeds 375000 AED.
Not only do these free zones help investors but play a key role in contributing to the country’s economy by attracting Foreign Direct Investment, increasing import and export, and creating massive job opportunities. For instance, they contributed 60% to the total emirate import-export as per the report of the embassy of UAE in Washington DC.
Seeing these massive growth opportunities the government has established multiple free zones which are round about 30 in total number. Some of the main free zones in Dubai include Jabel Ali, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Airport, Dubai Healthcare City, and Dubai Media City. Jabel Ali Free is the first established free zone while the DUQE Free Zone is the newly established free zone in Dubai.
Each free zone is established with a unique purpose. Some are generalized zones while others are specific to specific industries. For example, Jabel Ai Free Zone supports a wide range of activities while Dubai Multi Media Centre only supports related services. However, whether it is specific or general none of the free zones allows trade into the mainland directly without having a mainland license.
List Of 30 Free Zones in Dubai
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
- Dubai South
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
- Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Dubai Internet City (DIC)
- Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
- Dubai Design District (d3)
- Dubai Logistics City
- Meydan Free Zone
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone
- Dubai Science Park (DSP)
- International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Dubai Production City (DPC)
- Dubai Outsource City (DOC)
- Dubai Industrial City
- Dubai Studio City (DSC)
- Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)
- Dubai Academic City
- Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech)
- Dubai Cars & Automotive Zone (DUCAMZ)
- Dubai Auto Zone (DAZ)
- Dubai Maritime City (DMC)
- Dubai Gold and Diamond Park
- Dubai CommerCity
- Dubai Flower Centre
- International Humanitarian City (IHC)
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) Free Zone
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) was established in 1985 by the Government of Dubai under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is one of the world’s largest free zones offering access to over 3.5 billion people from all over the world as per their official website. It is located near Jebel Ali Port which is the largest seaport in the Middle East, with a total area of 134,343 sqm. A small section includes a covered storage area of 11,900 sqm, supporting industries such as logistics, manufacturing, trading, and technology. Jabel Ali Free Zone is Operated by DP World. It hosts over 10,000 companies, including giants like PepsiCo and Unilever. It generates more than AED 550 billion in trade value annually, according to the 2023 reports from its official website.
JAFZA offers flexible office spaces, warehouses, and plots at minimal cost. The overall business setup costs start from approximately AED 15,000. It has received numerous global trade and logistics awards for its excellence. These include the Excellence Award for Non-Fiscal Incentives, which won globally, and the Industrial Champion Award securing 1st place in the Middle East. Overall, the Jebel Ali free zone contributes nearly 24% to Dubai’s GDP according to the UAE Ministry of Economy. It is ideal for multinational corporations, SMEs, and startups.
DMCC Free Zone
DMCC Free Zone, initially known as Dubai Metals and Commodities Centre. It was established by the Ruler of Dubai in 2022, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is located in the heart of Dubai, within the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) district. This makes it an ideal hub for global trade. DMCC allows businesses in industries such as commodities, trade, finance, and technology.
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) Free Zone covers an area of approximately 115 hectares and has earned numerous accolades, including recognition as “Global Free Zone of the Year” multiple times. DMCC is the home to over 20,000 companies, making it one of the largest free zones in Dubai. It offers a variety of office spaces, from flexi-desks to full-scale offices. The cost of setting up a business within DMCC is competitive. The packages come in the range of 9000 AED to 40000 AED. It is operated by the DMCC Authority, it continues to contribute significantly to Dubai’s economy.
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Free Zone was established in 2004 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the President of the DIFC. This covers about 110 acres in the core of Dubai, near Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. It was the home to 4,377 companies in 2022 including global industry leaders like HSBC, BlackRock, and Citibank as per the official website. DIFC is operated by the Dubai International Financial Centre Authority (DIFCA).
DIFC contributes over 13% to Dubai’s GDP. It provides advanced office spaces and accommodates businesses of all sizes. The Dubai FinTech Summit helps in transforming fintech and digital transformation-driven businesses. It attracted over 8000+ business leaders and 1000+ investors.
Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
The Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) was established in 1996 by H.H. SHEIKH AHMED BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM in alignment with Law No. 2. It covers about 7.2 square kilometers near Dubai International Airport. It supports industries such as aviation, logistics, IT, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and e-commerce. DAFZ is operated by the Dubai Aviation City Corporation. It has over 3000+ registered businesses as per its official website.
Dubai Airport’s free zone integration with Dubai International Airport provides direct access to air cargo facilities, reducing logistical challenges. Dubai Airport Freezone was awarded as the best free zone in 2012 by the fDi Magazine. Just like other free zones, it provides simple Business setup procedures and world-class facilities to investors in all fields of business.
Dubai South
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) was established in 2004 by the government of Dubai. It is a global financial hub. Located in central Dubai, it spans 110 acres. The Dubai government founded it. DIFC focuses on financial services. It allows banking, insurance, and fintech. Its unique attribute is its independent regulation. This ensures a secure legal environment. Over 4,000 companies operate here. Global giants like HSBC and BlackRock are present. The cost of business setup varies. Office space ranges from coworking to premium. DIFC contributes 13% to Dubai’s GDP. It has won many awards. It is known for innovation.
DIFC is operated by the DFSA. It ensures international compliance standards. Its location is highly strategic. It lies between downtown and the airport. This offers excellent connectivity. DIFC is ideal for financial firms. It suits wealth management businesses. Professional services thrive here too. Its ecosystem attracts global investors. It supports job creation significantly. Foreign direct investment flows into DIFC. It is a cornerstone of Dubai’s economy. The future looks promising. DIFC will remain a financial powerhouse. It drives Dubai’s global ambitions.
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is a tech hub established in 2004 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum the RULER OF Dubai. It is located along Emirates Road, it spans 7.2 square kilometers. Over 1,000 companies operate here. Global giants like Microsoft and Oracle are present. It focuses on IT and telecom industries. Semiconductor manufacturing is also a key sector. DSO offers state-of-the-art infrastructure. Residential facilities are integrated seamlessly. Educational institutions are part of the ecosystem. This creates a self-sustained community. DSO Authority operates the free zone.
DSO is ideal for different entities such as tech startups, SMEs, and multinationals. The Innovation Hub supports entrepreneurship. Resources and mentorship are provided. This fosters a culture of innovation. DSO drives UAE’s economic diversification. It supports the digital economy vision. High-tech businesses are attracted here. Knowledge-based economic growth is prioritized. DSO is perfect for forward-thinking enterprises. It contributes to the country’s future with Innovations and technologies.
Dubai Media City (DMC)
Dubai Media City (DMC) was established in 2001 by the Dubai government. It has covered 22 million square feet in central Dubai. DMC is Operated by TECOM Group. It supports media industries like advertising, publishing, and entertainment. Over 2,000 companies, including CNN and BBC, operate here. DMC has an advanced infrastructure supporting investors to have a much better business environment. It has won multiple awards including “Global Free Zone of the Year” from fDi Magazine.
DMC is near major highways and Dubai Internet City. It supports broadcasting, film production, and digital media. Setting up a business in DMC is simple which attracts both startups and established firms. DMC strengthens Dubai’s global media presence and supports economic growth. It plays a key role in the UAE’s media industry.
Dubai Internet City
Dubai Internet City (DIC) was launched in 2000 and is operated by TECOM Investments. It’s near Dubai Media City which is a tech hub. It spans 1.5 million square feet. Over 1,600 companies operate here including key players such as Microsoft, Oracle, and Cisco. DIC offers 100% foreign ownership. It provides zero taxes and profit repatriation. High-speed internet and advanced telecoms support businesses.
DIC fosters innovation through in5. It’s a leading tech startup accelerator. The free zone has won many awards. One of these is the “Best Tech Hub of the Year” at the AIBC Eurasia event. It drives Dubai’s vision of knowledge and innovation. Setting up a business in DIC is cost-effective. Programs like Firststeps@dic offer feasibility studies. DIC is ideal for tech companies and startups. It supports the region’s economic growth.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) was established in 2002 by Sheikh Mohammed the Vice President DHCC is a healthcare-free zone. It is located in central Dubai with an area of 4.1 million square feet. It has 2 phases. Phase 1 focuses on healthcare and Phase 2 on wellness facilities.
It is the first healthcare-free zone. DHCC hosts top medical institutions including the Mayo Clinic and Moorfields. Harvard Medical School also operates here. It has won many awards including the Global Healthcare City of the Year award in 2021. Just like other free zones it allows Foreign ownership.
Dubai Design District (d3)
Dubai Design District (d3) was established in 2013 by TECOM Group. It is Located along Dubai Creek, with having 11 million square feet span. The district supports creative industries focusing on fashion and architecture. Interior design and multimedia are also key. Renowned brands operate here including Burberry, Christian Louboutin, and other Regional design studios.
d3 is the home to over 600 companies call it home. It provides a wide range of opportunities, including access to global markets, networking, collaboration, job creation, and support for the creative sector. It helps Dubai’s reputation to grow by attracting Foreign investment.e. Most design Startups and established brands coexist making it global design capital.
Dubai Logistics City
Dubai Logistic City was established in 2007 by Dubai South Properties. It is operated by the government of Dubai. It is located adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport. It has about 25 sqm area. The main purpose of this zone is to support logistics and trade on a massive scale.
DLC has won several awards related to logistics and trade including the SIL Award in the Best International Logistics Project category. Just like other free zones it has a smooth business setup process however, the cost is a bit higher ranging from AED 21000 to AED 30000.
Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone was established in February 2009 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum under Ruler’s Decree No. 5. It is operated by the Meydan City Corporation. It is located in Nad Al Sheba which is near Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City.
The Free Zone is home to many important places including The Meydan Hotel. It offers 2,500+ business activities including various industries and niche markets such as finance and ecommerce.
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Free Zone was established in May 2015 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is operated by the Dubai World Trade Centre Authority (DWTC Authority. It is located near the iconic Sheikh Rashid Tower.
The Free Zone is home to 1200+ business activities including SMEs. It offers a great business environment and world-class infrastructure.
Dubai Science Park (DSP)
Dubai Science Park (DSP) is a Free Zone in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). it sits strategically near a premier shopping hub with 630+ stores. DSP is known for Ski Dubai, the region’s first indoor ski resort. Moving closer, Dubai Hills Mall, just 7 km away, features a giant indoor roller coaster, making it a prime entertainment spot. These reinforce DSP’s connectivity to Dubai’s commercial and leisure attractions.
Dubai Science Park (DSP) is the home to over 3,600 professionals, offering specialized commercial spaces, advanced laboratories, warehouses, and versatile industrial units tailored for research and production. The Free Zone is home to in5 Centres, a dedicated hub that nurtures startups in technology, media, and design. Freelancers in media, tech, and education can benefit from the GoFreelance program, which provides a streamlined setup process. For healthcare needs, residents and professionals have easy access to Mediclinic Parkview Hospital and Medcare Medical Centre.
Additionally, the Free Zone simplifies administrative procedures through AXS services, an integrated government and corporate service platform managed by TECOM Group.
International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), positioned. It is located strategically, 20 km away from Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower at 828 meters, with an observation deck offering a 555-meter-high city view. Moving east, it is 30 km from Dubai International Airport (DXB), a global aviation hub processing over 86.4 million passengers annually.
Further south, IFZA is 25 km from Dubai Marina, home to over 200 residential skyscrapers, including Cayan Tower’s unique 90-degree twist. This prime location places IFZA within reach of Dubai’s most iconic sites and proximity to key commercial and cultural landmarks.
IFZA Dubai offers a cost-effective business setup, diverse licenses, and branch registration. It provides banking, training, and real estate support. Benefits include multi-activity licensing, expert guidance, and flexible offices. IFZA fosters global investment, economic growth, and an innovation-driven business ecosystem.
Dubai Production City (DPC)
Dubai Production City (DPC) is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and is operated by TECOM Group. It is located 15 km from Mall of the Emirates, home to Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort spanning 22,500 square meters.
Strategically positioned, DPC supports media and production businesses while ensuring proximity to Dubai’s major commercial and entertainment hubs, making it an attractive location for companies seeking connectivity, infrastructure, and a thriving business ecosystem. It has provided 200+ government and corporate solutions, serving 124,000+ professionals.
Dubai Outsource City (DOC)
Dubai Outsource City (DOC), established in 2007 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a leading hub for outsourcing and shared services, hosting over 100 businesses. As part of TECOM Group, it benefits from Dubai’s strong economic framework and offers seven+ commercial facilities, including office spaces, warehouses, and retail units.
Strategically positioned, DOC is 15 km from Dubai Silicon Oasis, home to 1,000+ tech companies, and 18 km from Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world’s busiest, handling over 86 million passengers annually. Additionally, DOC connects companies with a 28,000+ student workforce from Dubai International Academic City, providing access to part-time and temporary employment.
These factors make DOC a key outsourcing hub, fostering a thriving IT and BPO ecosystem while reinforcing Dubai’s leadership in digital transformation and innovation.
Dubai Industrial City (DIC)
Dubai Industrial City (DIC) is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), located is positioned for industrial growth, DIC is 20 km from Al Maktoum International Airport, set to handle 260 million passengers annually upon full completion. Moving northeast, it is 30 km from Jebel Ali Port, the largest port in the Middle East, managing 19.3 million TEUs yearly.
DIC spans 55 sq. km. It supported 940+ startups. Furthermore, it plays a key role in manufacturing, logistics, food processing, and heavy industry, with dedicated zones for metal, machinery, and transport industries.
Dubai Studio City (DSC)
Dubai Studio City (DSC) is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a hub for global media companies like CNN, BBC, and Reuters. DSC is 12 km from Mall of the Emirates, housing Ski Dubai, the world’s first indoor ski resort.
DSC provides 22 million sq. ft. of production space, supporting film, TV, music, and gaming industries, with world-class soundstages, post-production facilities, and green screens, positioning Dubai as a global media production hub.
Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)
Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP) in Dubai is 5 km from Dubai Media City, home to global broadcasters and media firms. It is a leading financial hub hosting over 940+ startups and 4 verticals.
DKP focuses on education, training, and HR development, housing 500+ institutions, including universities and corporate training centers, making it a vital education hub.
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) is in Dubai, UAE is a tech hub with 1,000+ companies. It has a strategic location with having 15 km distance from Dubai Festival City, home to Dubai’s largest IMAGINE water show.
DIAC supports 28,000+ students from 100+ countries and provides 500+ programs, offering higher education, research, and career development opportunities.
Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech)
Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) is a free zone dedicated to the science, health, and pharmaceutical sectors. It supports the entire value chain by fostering research, creativity, and innovation. DuBiotech provides a supportive ecosystem for businesses, enabling sustainable growth and positive change in the industry.
It is 5 km from Al Barsha, a commercial district with Dubai Miracle Garden’s 150 million flowers. It is home to over 200 pharmaceutical and biotech firms, offering lab space, R&D facilities, and incubation programs for global health innovation.
Dubai Cars & Automotive Zone (DUCAMZ)
Dubai Cars & Automotive Zone (DUCAMZ) is a specialized free zone dedicated to the automotive industry. It is 8 km from Dubai Creek, where Abra rides operate along the historic waterway. Moving south, it is 12 km from Dubai International Airport (DXB), handling 2.64 million tons of cargo annually.
DUCAMZ facilitates vehicle trading, procurement, modifications, and logistics on a global scale. With over two decades of expertise, DUCAMZ serves diverse markets, including the US, South America, Europe, CIS, Africa, China, and Far East Asia. The zone supports businesses dealing in luxury, passenger, SUV, and commercial vehicles while ensuring financial flexibility and high-quality service.
Dubai Auto Zone (DAZ)
Dubai Auto Zone (DAZ) was established in 2000. It is 10 km away from Dubai Festival City which is home to IMAGINE, the world’s largest water projection show. Dubai Auto Zone, the biggest used car marketplace in the GCC, is designed as a one-stop hub for the automotive sector.
DAZ serves buyers, sellers, service providers, and authorized representatives of automobile companies. DAZ offers a unified platform that connects all industry segments, ensuring they meet the increasing demands of the region’s fast-evolving markets efficiently.
Dubai Maritime City (DMC)
Dubai Maritime City (DMC) is in Dubai is a free zone established under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is located 5 km away from Port Rashid, a key port handling cruise liners and cargo shipments.
DMC spans 249 hectares between Port Rashid and Dubai Drydocks World, providing ship repair, maritime training, and marine services, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global maritime hub. It fosters a dynamic urban lifestyle for the maritime community while serving as a key gateway to eastern and western shipping corridors.
Dubai Gold and Diamond Park
Dubai Gold and Diamond Park is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), was established in 2011, and spans 118,000 sq. meters. It is located 3 km from the Mall of the Emirates, home to Ski Dubai, the world’s first indoor ski resort. Dubai Gold and Diamond Park offers world-class jewelry and bullion trading.
Home to over 90 leading retailers and 350 brands, it provides a diverse selection of high-value jewelry, with options for custom-made designs by expert artisans. Beyond retail, the park features 118 purpose-built manufacturing blocks and 350 offices, creating a prime business environment for jewelers and entrepreneurs seeking premium commercial leasing opportunities.
Dubai CommerCity
Dubai CommerCity in Dubai was established in October 2017 by Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) and Wasl Asset Management Group. It is 5 km from Dubai International Airport (DXB), handling 2.64 million tons of cargo annually.
Dubai CommerCity spans 2.1 million sq. ft., specializing in e-commerce businesses with dedicated logistics, warehousing, and office spaces, positioning Dubai as a regional leader in digital trade. It provides tailored consultation services, including digital commerce strategy, customs guidance, performance marketing, and content solutions.
