Why Choose a Dubai Free Zone?
Dubai’s free zones are special economic areas that offer:
- 100% foreign ownership
- 0% corporate tax (for most activities)
- No import/export duties
- Fast-track setup (3–10 days)
- Access to UAE residency visas
They’re designed to attract global entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and SMEs—especially those in tech, consulting, e-commerce, media, education, and professional services.
Whether you’re a freelancer, online business owner, coach, or startup founder, there’s a free zone for you.
Can You Really Set Up a Company Remotely in the UAE?
Yes.
In fact, post-2020, many free zones have introduced full remote company formation to support international founders.
You don’t need to:
- Fly to Dubai
- Get a visa first
- Rent an office
- Or even hold a UAE phone number
Everything—from applying to signing documents—is now digitized and can be completed online through email and video calls.
All you need is:
- A valid passport
- A clean profile (no legal issues)
- A basic business activity idea
Step-by-Step: Starting a Free Zone Company Without Visiting Dubai
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the remote setup journey:
✅ Step 1: Choose the Right Free Zone
Each free zone specializes in different activities. For example:
- IFZA – General trading, consulting, media, IT
- SPC (Sharjah Publishing City) – Consulting, media, e-commerce
- Meydan – Budget-friendly, fast setup
- Dubai South – Tech, trading, logistics
Choose one that fits your business model, budget, and visa requirement.
✅ Step 2: Select Your Business Activity
You must select an approved activity from the free zone’s official list. Some popular ones:
- Management consultancy
- Software development
- E-commerce
- Digital marketing
- Training services
Pro tip: Make sure the activity matches your future banking or invoicing needs.
✅ Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Most free zones require:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Residential address proof
- Signed application form
You send these by email or via a secure portal.
✅ Step 4: Pay the Setup Fee
Once your application is pre-approved, you’ll receive a payment link or invoice.
Payment can be done via:
- Bank transfer (internationally)
- Online payment gateway
- Cryptocurrency (some zones are starting to accept it)
✅ Step 5: Receive Company Documents
Within 3 to 7 working days, you’ll get your:
- Trade license
- Certificate of incorporation
- Memorandum of association
- Company establishment card
All sent digitally.
Boom—you’re now a legal UAE company owner.
Documents Needed for Remote Company Setup
For individuals (solo founders or freelancers):
- Passport copy (valid 6+ months)
- Passport-size photo with white background
- Address proof (utility bill or bank statement)
- CV or LinkedIn profile (optional)
- Entry stamp or visa copy (optional)
For corporate shareholders:
- Company license copy
- Board resolution
- Passport of director/representative
- Power of attorney
No notarization is needed for most remote setups unless a corporate entity is involved.
Free Zones That Allow 100% Remote Setup
Here are some free zones that are remote-friendly and popular with international founders:
| Free Zone | Remote Setup Allowed | Visa Option | Setup Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| IFZA Dubai | ✅ Yes | Optional | 3–5 days |
| SPC Free Zone | ✅ Yes | Optional | 2–4 days |
| Meydan Free Zone | ✅ Yes | Optional | 5–7 days |
| Shams | ✅ Yes | Optional | 4–6 days |
| RAKEZ | ✅ Yes | Optional | 4–7 days |
These zones don’t require:
- Your physical presence
- A local sponsor
- UAE residency upfront
Costs of Setting Up a Company Remotely
Here’s a rough idea of setup costs in AED/USD:
| Package Type | AED | USD |
|---|---|---|
| License only (no visa) | AED 5,750–8,000 | ~$1,600–2,200 |
| License + 1 Visa | AED 11,000–14,000 | ~$3,000–3,800 |
| License + 2–3 Visas | AED 15,000–20,000+ | ~$4,000–5,500+ |
Keep in mind:
- Some offers include a free coworking desk
- Renewals are usually same or slightly cheaper
- Pay once, get full-year license + company documents
No hidden charges if you’re working with a transparent consultant.
What About Visas and Emirates ID?
You can get a UAE residency visa later—whenever you want.
If you want a visa:
- Your free zone license must have visa eligibility
- You’ll have to visit Dubai once for medical, biometrics, and Emirates ID
The good news?
You can start the business now, and come for visa formalities later (within 6–12 months depending on the zone).
If you don’t need a visa (e.g., you’ll operate remotely or use a tourist visa occasionally), you can skip this step altogether.
Opening a UAE Bank Account Remotely
This part is tricky—but not impossible.
Opening a UAE corporate bank account remotely is possible with:
- Digital banks like Wio, Zand, or Mashreq Neo Biz
- Help from authorized consultants like GenZone
- A clean business profile and clear transactions
Here’s how it works:
- Submit your business license and documents
- Record a short video verification (KYC)
- Start with a basic AED account
- Gradually upgrade based on activity
Note: If you plan high-value international transfers or crypto, open a physical account by visiting the UAE.
Benefits of a Dubai Free Zone Company
Why thousands of entrepreneurs from India, UK, Europe, and Africa are setting up here:
- 0% tax on income (if your revenue is under AED 375,000 or outside UAE)
- 100% ownership, no local partner needed
- Legal company status, with invoice ability
- Global credibility, especially for online and consulting businesses
- Optional UAE residency visa
- Easy entry to the Middle East market
All of this—without being in Dubai.
Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up Remotely
Starting a company from another country? Avoid these traps:
❌ Choosing the wrong activity that’s hard to bank
❌ Falling for “cheap” licenses that don’t include real benefits
❌ Using agents who charge hidden renewal fees
❌ Not planning for visa or banking later
❌ Picking a zone with poor customer service
How GenZone Can Help You Set Up From Anywhere
At GenZone, we specialize in remote business setups.
Here’s what we offer:
- Transparent free zone comparisons
- Remote document submission
- Dedicated support for banking, visa, and tax registration
- End-to-end business setup in as little as 3 working days
- No hidden charges, no long contracts
✅ 100% Remote
✅ WhatsApp + Email Support
✅ One-time flat service fee
✅ Visa and bank account guidance
Want to speak to a consultant?
Book a free consultation with GenZone here
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to live in Dubai—or even visit—to be a UAE business owner.
With remote setup options, a supportive system, and global credibility, starting a free zone company from abroad is not just possible—it’s smarter than ever.
Whether you’re:
- A freelancer in Europe
- A consultant in India
- An e-com seller in the UK
- A crypto trader in South Africa
You can operate from anywhere with a Dubai company license and a UAE bank account.
The world is your office. Let Dubai be your base.
Ready to start your company remotely?
Contact GenZone now and set up your UAE company from anywhere in the world.