Comparing costs across UAE free zones can be complex. This guide provides a systematic framework for comparing UAE free zone costs in 2025.
How to Compare UAE Free Zone Costs
When comparing UAE free zone costs, consider ALL of these cost components: Licence fee: the annual fee to maintain the trade licence. Ranges from AED 5,500 (Shams) to AED 30,000+ (DMCC, DIFC). Office/virtual address: some free zones include virtual office in the licence fee; others charge separately (AED 3,000-8,000/year). Visa quota and cost: how many UAE residence visas are included, and the cost of additional visas. Establishment card: some free zones require an establishment card (AED 1,000-2,000/year). Initial registration fees: one-time setup fees (AED 1,000-5,000). Bank account minimum balance: the capital lockup required by the chosen bank. Health insurance: mandatory for UAE employees (AED 700-3,000+/year per person).
2025 Free Zone Cost Comparison: Budget Tier
UAQ Free Trade Zone: AED 4,500/year (no visa). With 1 visa: ~AED 7,500. Shams: AED 5,500/year (no visa). With 1 visa: ~AED 8,500. Ajman Free Zone: AED 6,000/year (no visa). With 1 visa: ~AED 9,000. RAKEZ: AED 9,000/year with 1 visa. Best budget pick overall: Shams (better banking than UAQ at comparable cost).
2025 Free Zone Cost Comparison: Mid Tier
SAIF Zone: AED 10,000-15,000/year with 1-2 visas. IFZA: AED 12,900/year with 1 visa (3 activities). Fujairah Creative City: AED 7,000-12,000/year. Best mid-tier pick: IFZA (Dubai address, 3 activities, competitive pricing).
2025 Free Zone Cost Comparison: Premium Tier
DMCC: AED 18,000-25,000/year. Dubai Internet City: AED 20,000-35,000/year. DIFC (Category 4): AED 25,000-35,000/year. ADGM: AED 25,000-40,000/year. Best premium pick: DMCC for trading/professional. DIFC for financial services.