UAE free zones list 2026: every major free zone by emirate, and how to choose
More than 40 free zones operate across the seven emirates. Here they are by emirate, with what each is known for and how to pick the right one.
The UAE has more than 40 free zones, each with its own authority, licence types and focus sectors. Choosing the right one early saves you from relocating later.
Dubai
- DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre): trading, commodities and a large startup community in JLT
- JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone): logistics, manufacturing and import-export next to Jebel Ali port
- DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre): finance, fintech and its own common-law courts
- Dubai Silicon Oasis, including IFZA: technology, startups and cost-effective licences
- Meydan Free Zone: flexible, digital-first setup for service businesses
- Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Park: tech, media and education
- Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) and Dubai South: aviation, logistics and e-commerce
- Dubai Healthcare City: clinics, hospitals and healthcare services
- Dubai Design District (d3), Dubai Science Park, Dubai CommerCity and DUQE
Abu Dhabi
- ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market): finance, fintech and holding companies
- KEZAD: industrial, logistics and manufacturing
- Masdar City Free Zone: clean energy, technology and sustainability
- twofour54: media, gaming and content
- Abu Dhabi Airport Free Zone
Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah
- Sharjah: SAIF Zone, Hamriyah Free Zone, Shams (Sharjah Media City), SPC Free Zone (Publishing City) and SRTIP
- Ajman: Ajman Free Zone and Ajman NuVentures Centre
- Umm Al Quwain: Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone
- Ras Al Khaimah: RAKEZ and RAK Maritime City
- Fujairah: Fujairah Free Zone and Creative City Fujairah
How to choose
Start from your customer, not the licence price. Ask who you sell to, where they are, whether you need a physical office or warehouse, how many visas you need and which activities your licence must cover. Then compare total yearly cost, not just the first-year package.
After the licence
Your free zone gets you a legal company. Customers still need to find and trust you. Plan your website, business email, social profiles and Google Business Profile from day one. Free zone rules change, so confirm details with the free zone authority or a licensed adviser.
