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UAE Free Zone Cost Calculator 2026 — Total First-Year Cost Breakdown
Planning a UAE free zone company? Here is a complete 2026 breakdown of ALL first-year costs so you know exactly what to budget.
In this guide:
First-Year Cost Components
- Trade licence fee: AED 11,500-20,000 (varies by free zone and activity)
- Incorporation/registration fee: AED 500-2,000 (one-time; included in some packages)
- Virtual office / desk fee: AED 5,000-10,000 (included in some all-in packages)
- Investor visa entry permit: AED 1,500-2,500
- Medical fitness test: AED 250-400
- Emirates ID: AED 270-370
- Visa stamping: AED 500-1,000
- Health insurance: AED 1,500-4,000/year
Total First-Year Budget (Realistic Ranges)
| Route | Licence Only (no visa) | With UAE Residence Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Budget (Ajman, UAQ, SHAMS) | AED 6,000-12,000 | AED 13,000-20,000 |
| Mid-range (IFZA, RAKEZ) | AED 12,000-16,000 | AED 18,000-26,000 |
| Premium (DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA) | AED 15,000-25,000 | AED 22,000-35,000 |
Ongoing Annual Costs (Year 2+)
- Licence renewal: Same as licence fee; AED 11,500-20,000/year
- Visa renewal: AED 2,000-4,000 every 2-3 years (amortized: AED 700-2,000/year)
- Health insurance: AED 1,500-4,000/year
- Accounting: AED 3,000-8,000/year (if outsourced)
- UAE CT registration: Free (mandatory)
What Is NOT Included in Free Zone Packages
- UAE CT compliance fees: Accountant or tax adviser; AED 3,000-10,000/year
- UAE VAT registration (if required): Free; but ongoing compliance costs
- ESR notification: Free to file; but adviser fees if using professional
- Formation agent fees: AED 1,000-5,000 if using an agent (optional)
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