About these figures: Costs and timelines on this page are indicative planning figures compiled from public free zone fee information. They have not been individually verified for this page, may be out of date, and must be confirmed with the free zone before you pay. How we source prices · How we compile data.
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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