Pakistani nationals are one of the largest groups of UAE-based entrepreneurs and professionals. Here is the complete 2026 guide to UAE free zone company and visa for Pakistani citizens.
In this guide:
Pakistani Nationals and UAE Business
- Large community: Over 1.5 million Pakistanis in UAE; one of the largest expatriate groups
- Sectors: Trading, construction, retail, IT, professional services
- UAE-Pakistan ties: Strong bilateral trade relations; USD 10+ billion bilateral trade annually
Recommended Free Zones for Pakistani Entrepreneurs
- IFZA: Popular, affordable, multi-activity licence; accepts Pakistani directors without issue
- SHAMS: Budget option; widely used by Pakistani consultants
- RAKEZ: Good for trading and manufacturing; cost-effective
- Ajman Free Zone: Very affordable entry point
Pakistan-UAE Dual Tax Treaty
- Tax treaty: Pakistan-UAE double tax avoidance agreement in force
- Key benefit: Salary earned from UAE company not subject to Pakistan income tax if individual is UAE tax resident
- Pakistan FBR: Non-resident status in Pakistan requires following FBR guidelines; consult Pakistan tax adviser
Visa Process for Pakistani Nationals
- Same as all nationalities: Entry permit, medical fitness, Emirates ID, visa stamping
- Documents from Pakistan: Educational certificates typically need HEC attestation; then UAE Embassy attestation in Pakistan; then MOFA in UAE
- Processing: Standard UAE free zone visa timeline; 3-6 weeks total