Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ), which has been run by Hutchison Ports since 2018, was developed in 1987 as Ahmed Bin Rashid Port and Free Zone to support the port’s operations. UAQ FTZ, which is situated in Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates, has developed into a rapidly expanding business and logistics center. Since its founding, the emirate has supported businesses by fostering a stable and investor-friendly environment under the direction of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mua’lla.
Only thirty minutes from Dubai International Airport, UAQ FTZ is a key business and logistics hub located in the forward-thinking emirate of Umm Al Quwain. It supports micro-businesses, SMEs, and conglomerates in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, fintech, IT, healthcare, and alternative energy, and it occupies 770 square kilometers. UAQ FTZ guarantees quick onboarding and clear procedures by providing 100% foreign ownership, corporate tax advantages, complete capital and profit repatriation, and no exchange controls. Investors can access markets in the MENA region, Asia, and Europe thanks to its contemporary infrastructure, which includes offices, warehouses, and a close proximity to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Umm Al Quwain is a great place to go for business and pleasure because of its affordable cost of living and labour, steady economy, rich history, and beautiful beaches and deserts.
Lowest setup costs among UAE Free Zones (starting at AED 5,555).
0% corporate and personal tax; no customs duties, subject to conditions specified under corporate tax.
No local sponsor.
Multiple activities under one license.
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQFTZ) simplifies licensing for solo entrepreneurs and businesses alike. Its flexible structure lets you scale operations while keeping costs and compliance in check.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the company setup process in the UAE.
Follow these six essential steps to get your business up and running smoothly.
Step 4
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Free Zones in UAE offer various options for company formation, depending on the requirement and structure of ownership. The main types are:
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UAQFTZ allows a wide range of business activities, particularly focused on high-growth, globally relevant sectors. Some of the major permitted activities include:
With more than 1,500 operations in industries including trading, logistics, manufacturing, consulting, IT, fintech, healthcare, and more, UAQ FTZ welcomes companies of all sizes, including startups, SMEs, independent contractors, and conglomerates.
100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate and personal taxes, 100% capital and profit repatriation, no currency restrictions, no visa deposits, and access to modern infrastructure and reasonably priced setup costs are among the advantages.
In order to support a variety of activities such as trading, consulting, and creative services, UAQ FTZ provides licenses for Commercial, General Trading, Consultancy, Premium Consultancy, Service, Industrial, Micro Business, and Freelance.
After submitting all necessary paperwork, the registration process is quick and usually takes 1-2 working days, though some licenses that need outside approvals might take longer.
With access to Hutchison Ports UAQ through Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, UAQ FTZ offers executive offices, co-working spaces, pre-built warehouses, and land plots for lease (up to 25 years).
No, freelance and microbusiness licenses enable operations without a physical office, making them perfect for remote companies or those that just require a license vehicle.
As long as UAE immigration procedures are followed and no visa deposits are needed, hiring people of any nationality is not restricted.
Yes, family members may be sponsored for residency visas as long as they abide by UAE immigration laws.
Due to its advantageous location—just 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and close to important seaports—it offers import and export customs exemptions as well as convenient access to markets in Asia, Europe, and the MENA region.
Limited liability options include Free Zone Establishment (FZE, single shareholder), Free Zone Company (FZC, 2-50 shareholders), or a branch of an already-existing business.
Yes, dual licensing enables companies to add new licenses to an existing business, allowing for cost and time-effective activity diversification.
A business plan, notarized corporate documents (if applicable), copies of your passport, and proof of address (such as a utility bill) are typical prerequisites. The license and structure determine the specifics.
Although shareholders must sign and mail the original documents for incorporation, registration and renewals can be completed remotely.
With a single point of contact for services like licensing, visas, and customs, UAQ FTZ functions within an open legal framework that guarantees investor protection and adherence to UAE laws.
Yes, UAQFTZ companies can qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate as QFZPs under Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2023 and Ministerial Decision No. 139 of 2023. Requirements include:
Yes, most companies in UAQFTZ must submit audited financial statements to comply with UAE tax laws and free zone regulations, especially for license renewal. Exact deadlines are not specified, but timely submission is critical to avoid fines or license issues.
BYB (Build Your Business) is a specialized firm focused on building the foundation for businesses to operate globally. We provide clear guidance and practical support to individuals and companies on how to properly establish their business, follow all rules, and design its structure to begin work in different countries. Our deep knowledge includes how to stay compliant in various nations, selecting the best legal setup, and making smart choices about local business environments. We help get registrations, explain tax requirements, and put in place the basic systems for running an office. BYB is an essential partner for those starting international businesses, making sure they have a solid and rule-abiding base from the very beginning.
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