A systematic KPI-based scorecard helps you objectively rank UAE free zones against your business’s specific priorities. Here is a weighted scorecard framework with example scores for 6 major free zones.
Free Zone KPI Scorecard: Weights and Criteria
Select your priority weights (total must equal 100%): Cost (annual licence + visa): 0–30%. Banking ease (speed + options): 0–30%. Activity fit (does the zone support your activities?): 0–25%. Location and prestige: 0–20%. Physical infrastructure: 0–15%. Growth flexibility (visa quota + upgrade options): 0–15%.
Example Scorecard: Service Company Profile
Profile: SaaS startup, 3 founders, targeting MENA markets, budget-conscious, no physical office needed, international payments (USD/EUR). Priority weights: Cost: 30%, Banking: 25%, Activity fit: 20%, Location: 10%, Infrastructure: 5%, Growth: 10%.
| Free Zone | Cost | Banking | Activity | Location | Infra | Growth | Weighted Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IFZA | 4.5 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4.2/5 |
| Shams | 5 | 3.5 | 3 | 3 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.85/5 |
| DMCC | 2 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 3.85/5 |
| DIC | 2.5 | 4.5 | 5 | 4.5 | 4 | 4 | 3.8/5 |
| RAKEZ | 4 | 3.5 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 3.5 | 3.65/5 |
| UAQ FTZ | 5 | 2 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 2.5 | 3.35/5 |
Winner for this profile: IFZA (4.2/5). Strong banking + broad activities + competitive cost + good growth options. Adjust weights for your own priorities to get your personalised ranking.