How to Set Up a UAE Free Zone Company Under AED 15,000 in 2026
Setting up a UAE free zone company does not have to be expensive. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting your UAE company set up for under AED 15,000 in 2026 using the most affordable free zones and self-service processes.
- How to Set Up a UAE Free Zone Company Under AED 15,000 in 2026
- Step 1: Choose the Right Budget Free Zone
- Step 2: Prepare Your Documents (1-2 days)
- Step 3: Submit Application and Pay Fees
- Step 4: Receive Trade Licence (3-5 days)
- Step 5: Apply for UAE Residence Visa (Optional — Extra Cost)
- Step 6: Open Bank Account
- Total Cost Under AED 15,000
Step 1: Choose the Right Budget Free Zone
The most affordable UAE free zones in 2026:
- SPC Free Zone: AED 13,165 (1 visa, 1 activity, flexi-desk)
- UAQ Free Trade Zone: AED 10,000-13,000
- SHAMS (Sharjah): AED 14,760 (3 visas)
- RAKEZ Smart Office: AED 7,500-12,000 (activity dependent)
For under AED 15,000, SPC Free Zone or UAQ FTZ are the top options. SPC is recommended for its banking relationships.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents (1-2 days)
Documents needed for all UAE free zone company applications:
- Passport copies (all shareholders and directors) — 6 months validity minimum
- Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, government letter) — dated within 3 months
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you are employed in UAE (some free zones require it)
Cost: AED 0 (all free — just printing/scanning)
Step 3: Submit Application and Pay Fees
Submit your application through the free zone portal or via email. Most budget free zones have simple online portals.
Cost: AED 13,165 (SPC year 1) or AED 10,000 (UAQ)
Step 4: Receive Trade Licence (3-5 days)
Once approved, receive your trade licence, certificate of incorporation, and MOA by email or courier.
Cost: AED 0 (included in package)
Step 5: Apply for UAE Residence Visa (Optional — Extra Cost)
If you need a UAE residence visa, additional fees apply (typically AED 3,000-5,000 total including medical, visa, and Emirates ID). This is NOT included in the AED 13,165 estimate above.
Step 6: Open Bank Account
Open Wio Business bank account online (no UAE visa required for Wio). Alternative: open Wise or Payoneer using trade licence.
Cost: AED 0 (Wio is free)
Total Cost Under AED 15,000
- SPC Free Zone licence: AED 13,165
- Wio Business account: AED 0
- Document preparation: AED 100-300
- Total: ~AED 13,300-13,500