Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is the UAE's most affordable free zone, offering business licenses from AED 5,500 with a simple, fast setup process that can be completed within 24 hours for basic packages. Located in Umm Al Quwain — the UAE's least populous emirate situated between Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah — UAQ FTZ provides a cost-effective gateway to the UAE market for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. The free zone offers licenses across a wide range of activities including general trading, consulting, services, e-commerce, and light manufacturing, with flexible office options including virtual office arrangements. UAQ FTZ's competitive pricing structure makes it particularly popular with overseas entrepreneurs who want to establish a legitimate UAE company without the high overhead costs associated with Dubai or Abu Dhabi free zones. The zone's straightforward regulatory environment and responsive management team have earned it high marks for ease of doing business.

About UAQ FTZ

Affordable Multi-sector Trade & Industry

Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is the UAE's most affordable free zone, offering business licenses from AED 5,500 with a simple, fast setup process that can be completed within 24 hours for basic packages. Located in Umm Al Quwain — the UAE's least populous emirate situated between Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah — UAQ FTZ provides a cost-effective gateway to the UAE market for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses. The free zone offers licenses across a wide range of activities including general trading, consulting, services, e-commerce, and light manufacturing, with flexible office options including virtual office arrangements. UAQ FTZ's competitive pricing structure makes it particularly popular with overseas entrepreneurs who want to establish a legitimate UAE company without the high overhead costs associated with Dubai or Abu Dhabi free zones. The zone's straightforward regulatory environment and responsive management team have earned it high marks for ease of doing business.

Key Information

Zone Name UAQ FTZ
Emirate Umm Al Quwain
Setup Cost From AED 5,500
Visa Quota Up to 6
Min. Capital None
Setup Time 3–5 business days

Costs & Fees

License Fee / Setup Cost From AED 5,500
Minimum Share Capital None

Cost Notes

All costs shown are approximate and subject to change. Additional costs may include registration fees, notarisation, visa medical fees, and bank account opening fees. Always verify the exact costs with UAQ FTZ directly before proceeding.

Permitted Business Activities

General Trading Import & Export Manufacturing Light Industrial Production Professional Services E-commerce IT Services & Technology Healthcare Products Education Logistics & Warehousing Food Processing & Packaging Textiles & Garments Consumer Goods Agricultural Products Tourism & Hospitality Business Consulting Engineering Services Media & Publishing Automotive Parts General Services

The above activities are indicative. UAQ FTZ may permit additional activities based on your specific business requirements. Always confirm with the zone authority.

How to Set Up in UAQ FTZ

  1. Choose your business activity
    Identify the specific business activities you want to conduct. This determines the license type you need.
  2. Select your package
    Choose between flexi-desk, shared office, or dedicated office options based on your needs and budget.
  3. Submit your application
    Provide required documents including passport copies, business plan, and completed application forms.
  4. Pay fees and receive your license
    Once approved, pay the applicable fees and receive your trade license — typically within 3–5 business days.
  5. Apply for visas
    Use your trade license to apply for investor and employee visas through the free zone authority.
  6. Open a bank account
    Use your incorporation documents to open a corporate bank account with a UAE or international bank.