Establishing a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone

The Dubai Airport Free Zone represents one of the distinguished economic zones in the Emirates, providing an ideal investment environment for companies seeking global growth and expansion. This region is characterized by advanced infrastructure and attractive investment facilities, including tax exemptions and flexible laws that facilitate the process of establishing a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone and operating small and large companies alike.

In this article, we will explore the investment opportunities and advantages that the Dubai Airport Free Zone offers, in addition to the basic steps and requirements needed to establish a successful free zone company . We will highlight the types of companies that can be established, the tax and customs advantages, and advanced logistics services that support international shipping and distribution operations.

Establishing a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone

Steps to establish a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone

To establish a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone, several basic steps must be followed. Here is a summary of the steps to take:

1. Feasibility study and activity selection: Before starting the process, an integrated feasibility study must be conducted to ensure the availability of the market for the services or products that your company will provide. The type of business activity is chosen based on this study.
2. Choosing a company structure: Investors can choose between several types of company structures such as limited company, limited liability company, partnership, and others. The structure that fits the business needs and strategic goals should be chosen.
3. Submitting the application and determining the location: An application to establish the company is submitted to the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority. The appropriate location for the company within the free zone must be determined, which is commensurate with the company’s activity and requirements.
4. Submitting the required documents: Establishing the company requires submitting a set of documents such as passports for shareholders and managers, personal photos, and bank certificates, in addition to the necessary contracts and agreements.
5. Obtaining the necessary approvals: The necessary governmental and regulatory approvals must be obtained from the relevant authorities in the free zone, such as business permits and professional licenses as needed.
6. Company registration and legal establishment: After meeting all conditions and requirements, the company is officially registered and established in the Dubai Airport Free Zone, in line with local legislation and regulations.
7. Starting the operational process: After completing all legal and regulatory procedures, the company can begin implementing its operational plans and begin work officially.

How can you establish a company in the free zone?

To establish a company in a free zone in Dubai , you usually need to follow the following steps:

• Choosing the appropriate free zone: There are several free zones in Dubai, such as Jebel Ali, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Production, and the free zone at Dubai Airport. Choose the area that suits your company’s activity and provides the benefits you are looking for.
• Determine the type of company: The types of companies that you can establish may vary depending on the free zone, and include local companies, branches, new companies, and others.
• Preparing the necessary documents: Basic documents usually include passports, personal photos, company incorporation contracts, office lease contracts, and additional documents according to the requirements of each free zone.
• Submitting an application and registering: You may need to submit an official application to establish the company and go through the necessary registration process in the chosen free zone.
• Pay related fees: Fees related to establishing the company and obtaining the necessary licenses must be paid.
• Open bank account: After establishing the company, you can open a bank account for the company in one of the approved banks in the free zone.
• Compliance with local laws and legislation: Ensure compliance with all local laws and legislation related to the establishment and operation of companies in the free zone.

Establishing a company in the free zone

The UAE is distinguished by the fact that it has more than 40 free zones in addition to some areas that are being established. Therefore, establishing a company in a free zone is one of the difficult matters facing the investor, as it is difficult to choose between many areas. Therefore, Kaber Company, through its great experience in business management, undertakes By helping many investors choose the appropriate free zone for their commercial activity, it also helps in establishing and establishing a company in the free zone in the shortest time and at the lowest costs.

Documents required to establish a company in the free zone

To establish a company in a free zone in Dubai , you usually need the following documents:

• Passports: Colored copies of passports for all shareholders and directors.
• Personal Photos: Recent personal photos of all shareholders and directors.
• Company incorporation contract: The Company’s Articles of Association must be prepared and signed by all shareholders. Requirements may vary depending on the type of company and the chosen free zone.
• Office lease contracts: Obtaining a license in the free zone requires submitting an office lease contract with sufficient real estate authority to establish the company.
• Additional Documents: The free zone may request additional documents such as a business plan, financial reports, and registration application forms, depending on the requirements of local authorities.

Types of free zone companies

In the heat zone at Dubai Airport, several types of companies can be established that vary according to the needs of investors and the type of business to be carried out. Among the common types of businesses in this region include:

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC): It is a popular option for investors who want to establish permanent business in Dubai, as shareholders can be natural or legal persons, with a minimum financial contribution required.
2. Sole Proprietorship: It allows an individual business owner to carry out his business without the need for a partner, and is an ideal option for small businesses targeting the local market.
3. Public Joint Stock Company: Allows companies to raise capital by selling their shares to the public, and usually applies to companies that are large or planning to go public.
4. UAE Limited Liability Company: Similar to a Limited Liability Company (LLC) but requires an Emirati partner with at least 51% of the capital.
5. Limited joint stock company: It has the same advantages as a public joint stock company, but with fewer limits on the number of shareholders and is considered a good option for medium-sized businesses.

The difference between offshore companies and free zone companies

In the business world, the UAE offers free zones and offshore services as options for companies wishing to grow and expand internationally. Both models provide a favorable investment environment, but each has its own unique features depending on the company’s needs and strategy.

This table shows some of the main differences between offshore companies and free zone companies in Dubai. Please note that terms may vary depending on the laws and regulations applicable in the owner’s home countries and in the free zone you choose to establish your company.

Advantages of establishing a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone provides a set of competitive advantages that make it an excellent choice for entrepreneurs and international companies. Here are some key benefits:

• Full ownership by foreigners: Free zones in Dubai allow foreign companies to own 100% without the need for a local partner, which increases the flexibility of management and control of the company.
• Facilitated legal and regulatory environment: The free zones at Dubai Airport enjoy simple and effective legislation and regulatory procedures that facilitate the establishment and operation of companies.
• Advanced infrastructure: The Dubai Airport Free Zone provides advanced infrastructure that includes communications, transportation and logistics, which supports the rapid growth and expansion of businesses.
• Business support services: The region provides a wide range of support services such as equipped office space, logistical and insurance services, which makes it easier for companies to provide their services efficiently.
• Access to regional and global markets: Thanks to its strategic location, the Dubai Airport Free Zone provides companies with opportunities to reach regional and global markets faster and more effectively.

At the conclusion of this article, it is clear that establishing a company in the free zone at Dubai Airport is a strategic and favorable option for small and large businesses alike. This region has advanced infrastructure, simple regulatory legislation, and flexibility in ownership and management, which enhances the opportunities for growth and expansion at the local and international levels. In addition, it provides diverse support services and easy access to the Middle East and North Africa markets, making it a preferred destination for investors and entrepreneurs seeking to build a prosperous future in a dynamic and innovative business environment.

The most important frequently asked questions about establishing a company in the free zone