Jurisdictions
UAE company formation, by jurisdiction.
Free zone, mainland, or holding — and which specific authority. The choice drives your cost, your visa options, and who you can sell to. Here’s the honest rundown of each.
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone
Free zoneThe cost-effective free zone for international and industrial business.
From AED 9,150 year 1, incl. VAT
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International Free Zone Authority
Free zoneDubai-issued, broad activity list, no mandatory office.
From AED 16,575 year 1, incl. VAT
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Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
Free zonePremium Dubai free zone — strong for trading, commodities, and crypto.
Quote on the call — rates move with authority promotions
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Dubai International Financial Centre
Free zone · Holding / SPVCommon-law jurisdiction for SPVs, Foundations, and wealth structuring.
From AED 23,090 year 1, incl. VAT
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Abu Dhabi Global Market
Free zone · Holding / SPVAbu Dhabi's common-law jurisdiction — lean SPVs and strong Foundations.
Quote on the call — rates move with authority promotions
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RAK International Corporate Centre
Holding / SPVThe cheapest pure holding / offshore structure in the UAE.
Quote on the call — rates move with authority promotions
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Dubai Mainland (DET)
Mainland (DED)For trading inside the UAE — DET-licensed, full local-market access.
From AED 20,200 year 1, incl. VAT
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Abu Dhabi Mainland
Mainland (DED)For trading inside the UAE — ADDED-licensed, strong for government work.
Quote on the call — rates move with authority promotions
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Not sure which fits?
Run the 5-min diagnostic — we recommend the jurisdiction that actually fits your situation, with the realistic cost, in one business day. Or model the numbers yourself in the calculator.