Different UAE free zones have different share capital requirements. Here is the comprehensive 2026 comparison of minimum share capital across UAE free zones.
In this guide:
Low / Zero Share Capital Free Zones
| Free Zone | Minimum Share Capital | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IFZA | AED 1 (symbolic) | No paid-up requirement; registered in MOA |
| SHAMS | AED 1,000 | Low; accessible for all budgets |
| Ajman Free Zone | AED 1 (symbolic) | Flexible; start with minimal capital |
| RAKEZ | AED 1,000 | Low; good for SMEs |
| UAQ FTZ | AED 1 | Minimal; accessible |
Medium Share Capital Free Zones
| Free Zone | Minimum Share Capital | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| DMCC | AED 50,000 for FZE/FZCO | Higher prestige free zone; some activities require more |
| JAFZA | AED 100,000 for FZE | Higher minimums reflect JAFZA’s focus on larger companies |
| DAFZA | AED 100,000 | Premium free zone; higher capital requirement |
Special Activity Share Capital
- Financial services (DFSA-regulated in DIFC): USD 50,000 – USD 10,000,000+ depending on licence category
- Insurance: Higher share capital; AED 5 million+
- Banking: Very high share capital; AED 150 million+
Paid-Up vs Authorised Capital
- Authorised capital: Maximum capital the company is authorized to issue
- Paid-up capital: Capital actually contributed and paid into the company
- UAE practice: Most free zones require paid-up capital equal to minimum; some accept symbolic