Dubai is a dream destination for many — offering a vibrant lifestyle, world-class infrastructure, tax benefits, and endless opportunities. If you’re thinking of setting up a Free Zone business in Dubai, you might be wondering:
👉 “Can I also live in Dubai legally if I own a Free Zone company?”
The simple answer is: Yes, absolutely!
But there’s a little more to it than just getting your business license.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — step-by-step — about living in Dubai as a Free Zone business owner.
What Is a Free Zone Business in Dubai?
A Free Zone in Dubai is a special economic area where entrepreneurs enjoy major benefits:
- 100% foreign ownership
- No personal income taxes
- Minimal corporate taxes (subject to thresholds)
- Fast setup processes
- World-class facilities and infrastructure
There are over 30+ Free Zones in Dubai — including DMCC, IFZA, Dubai South, DAFZA, and more — each catering to different industries like trading, tech, logistics, healthcare, and media.
Setting up a business in one of these zones makes it easy, affordable, and fast for foreigners to own and operate a company.
Can Free Zone Business Owners Get a Residence Visa?
✅ Yes, they can!
When you open a Free Zone company in Dubai, you’re entitled to apply for a residence visa under your company.
This visa will allow you to:
- Legally live in Dubai
- Sponsor your spouse and children
- Open a local bank account
- Rent or buy property
- Access healthcare and insurance
- Apply for driving license and other services
Depending on the Free Zone you choose, your company setup package will often include eligibility for 1 to 6 visas — including yours as the owner and for any employees you hire.
How to Get Your UAE Residence Visa Through a Free Zone Business
Here’s a simple overview of the process:
1. Set Up Your Free Zone Company
You first need to register your company in the Free Zone.
Choose your business activity, reserve your trade name, submit documents, and receive your license.
👉 Important: Some Free Zones offer “zero visa” packages (cheaper options with no visa eligibility). If you plan to live in Dubai, make sure you choose a package that includes a visa quota.
2. Apply for Your Establishment Card
After your license is issued, your company needs an Establishment Card (also known as an Immigration Card).
This document allows your company to sponsor individuals for UAE visas — including yourself.
3. Apply for an Entry Permit
Once the Establishment Card is ready, you will apply for an Entry Permit — a temporary visa valid for 60 days that allows you to stay in the UAE while you complete the visa process.
4. Complete Medical Tests and Emirates ID
Next steps after entry:
- Medical Test (blood test and chest X-ray)
- Emirates ID Application (your national ID card in the UAE)
5. Visa Stamping
Once your medical and Emirates ID process is complete, your residence visa will be stamped into your passport.
Congratulations! You’re now a UAE resident and can legally live in Dubai.
How Long Is the Residence Visa Valid?
Typically:
- Most Free Zone residence visas are valid for 2 years.
- Some Free Zones now offer 3-year visas.
- You can renew your visa as long as your company remains active.
Can I Sponsor My Family After Getting My Visa?
✅ Yes, you can!
Once you have your own visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and sometimes even parents.
You’ll need:
- Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificates)
- Valid tenancy contract
- Minimum salary of AED 4,000–5,000/month (depending on regulations)
Sponsoring your family ensures they also get Emirates IDs, health insurance, and legal residency.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Dubai with a Free Zone Business?
Here’s a basic estimate of what you might need:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Business Setup (Annual) | AED 12,000 – AED 30,000 |
| Establishment Card | AED 1,500 – AED 2,000 |
| Visa Costs (2 Years) | AED 3,500 – AED 7,000 |
| Health Insurance (Mandatory) | AED 1,000 – AED 3,000 |
| Rent (Studio Apartment) | AED 25,000 – AED 50,000 annually |
| Other Living Expenses (Food, Transport, Utilities) | AED 2,500 – AED 6,000 monthly |
Living costs vary depending on your lifestyle, but Dubai offers both luxury and affordable living options.
Benefits of Living in Dubai with a Free Zone Business
✅ Tax Efficiency
Enjoy zero personal income tax and minimal corporate taxes under UAE regulations.
✅ High Quality of Life
Safe city, modern infrastructure, beaches, shopping malls, and vibrant culture.
✅ International Hub
Easy travel to Europe, Africa, Asia, and beyond.
✅ Business Networking
Meet entrepreneurs and investors from around the world.
✅ Safe and Secure
One of the world’s safest cities with excellent healthcare and education options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing a “zero visa” package when you need residency
❌ Missing Emirates ID application
❌ Not maintaining active business license renewals
❌ Failing to return to Dubai once every 6 months (can risk visa cancellation)
❌ Ignoring family sponsorship deadlines
Bonus Tip: Choosing the Right Free Zone
Not all Free Zones are created equal.
Choose a Free Zone that offers:
- Affordable visa-inclusive packages
- Good banking support
- Quick and efficient services
- Strong reputation among international businesses
Some great Free Zones for living and business include:
- IFZA Dubai
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai South
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of starting a business and living in Dubai, opening a Free Zone company is one of the smartest moves you can make.
It’s relatively quick, affordable, and gives you — and your family — the opportunity to enjoy the incredible lifestyle and opportunities the UAE has to offer.
✅ Yes, you can live in Dubai with a Free Zone business.
But to do it right — choose the right Free Zone, get the correct visa package, and work with experts who can help you through the process.