A Financial Free Zone in the United Arab Emirates is a designated jurisdiction for companies engaged in financial as well as other general professional services. Financial freezones are different from regular freezones or mainland jurisdictions because they are meant to make a safe, regulated, and internationally compliant space for banks, investment firms, insurance companies, wealth management companies, and fintech companies.
The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) in DIFC and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) in ADGM are examples of independent regulatory bodies that oversee these zones. They also follow legal and governance standards that are recognized around the world. This makes sure that the financial system is open, protects investors, and is strong enough to support trade and capital movement across borders.
A single license for many activities.
Offices of different sizes that are ready to move into or can be customized.
A lot of warehouses, industrial plots, and offices.
Access to RAK Port and being close to Dubai.
Financial freezones are a great option for businesses that want to start or grow their operations in the UAE while also reaching regional and international markets. These zones let foreigners own 100% of a business, pay no corporate or personal income tax (if they meet UAE federal tax thresholds), and don’t have to pay import or export duties. The infrastructure is top-notch, with modern commercial spaces, serviced offices, and flexi-desks made just for financial companies. Also, the rules in these areas are independent, which means that there are clear laws in place for things like bankruptcy, data protection, and resolving disputes.
These areas are great for international financial activity because they have arbitration centers, independent courts, and help with compliance. Companies also gain from easier licensing processes, quicker visa processing, and access to a large pool of skilled workers.
The UAE is home to two major financial freezones, each strategically positioned and internationally recognized:
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
Helping entrepreneurs build and grow in the UAE with complete support, expert guidance, and reliable partnerships.
From choosing the right jurisdiction to post-setup compliance—we’re with you throughout.
We tailor your company structure to match your industry, goals, and growth plans.
No paperwork stress—we handle all approvals, licensing, and formalities on your behalf.
We prioritize speed without compromising accuracy, so you can launch sooner.
A single point of contact for all your queries, updates, and coordination.
Businesses across sectors rely on BYB for smooth, strategic setups in the UAE.
Free Zones in UAE offer various options for company formation, depending on the requirement and structure of ownership. The main types are:
Anywhere in UAE (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi)
Designated Area (e.g., Jafza, DMCC)
Specialized financial hubs (e.g., DIFC, ADGM)
Full access to UAE local market and global trade
Freezone and global trade; limited local access
Global financial markets; limited local UAE market access
100% foreign in most sectors
100% foreign in most sectors
100% foreign in most sectors
9% corporate tax on profits > AED 375,000
0% tax; 9% if profits > AED 375,000
0% corporate tax; 9% if profits > AED 375,000; specific tax incentives for finance
Mandatory (Ejari-registered office) and flexible option available
Optional (flexi-desks in some Freezones)
Optional (flexi-desks in some Freezones)
Starts at AED 15,000*
Starts at AED 6000*
Starts at AED 25,000*
Higher quotas based on office size
Limited visas; varies by Freezone
Moderate visas; tied to office size and business type
Mandatory annual audit if the turnover exceeds AED 50 million.
Mandatory annual audit if the turnover exceeds AED 50 million or as stipulated under the laws of the Free Zone.
Mandatory annual audit if the turnover exceeds AED 50 million or as stipulated under the laws of the Free Zone.
Regulated by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other government bodies.
Governed by the respective Free Zone Authority (FZA).
Governed by respective free zone authority. Regulated activities governed by Independent Regulatory Bodies.
Local market focus, scalability
International trade, tax efficiency
Financial Services, Banking, Wealth Management, Holding Company, Finance, Crypto.
Manage all your social channels, ensure customer supremacy engagement, track your performance and more—all from a single platform
Free Zones in UAE offer various options for company formation, depending on the requirement and structure of ownership. The main types are:
A financial free zone is a designated area within the UAE that operates under a separate legal and regulatory framework, focused on financial services such as banking, investment, insurance, and fintech. Examples include DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) and ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market).
Each financial free zone has its own independent regulator:
DIFC: Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)
ADGM: Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA)
Yes, both DIFC and ADGM allow non-financial companies such as law firms, consulting agencies, fintech startups, family offices, and holding companies to register.
Yes, physical office space or a registered desk is typically required to obtain and maintain a license in a financial free zone.
Yes, companies registered in financial free zones generally find it easier to open bank accounts due to strong regulatory frameworks and transparency standards.
No. 100% foreign ownership is allowed in financial free zones without the need for a local sponsor.
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.
1209, The Regal Towers, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
Monday to Friday
9:00 AM To 6:00 PM – (GST)
