UAE Free Zone Price Index (2026)
This index compares the 2026 starting cost of every major UAE free zone in one table. Licences start from AED 5,750 at SHAMS (Sharjah), around AED 12,500–12,900 at popular Dubai zones like IFZA and Meydan, and AED 25,000–34,000 at premium zones such as JAFZA and DMCC.
Last updated: June 2026
| Free zone | Emirate | Setup from | Visa from | Timeline | Office required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SHAMS | Sharjah | AED 5,750 | AED 3,300 | 3–7 working days | No |
| SPC Free Zone | Sharjah | AED 6,500 | AED 3,200 | 1–5 working days | No |
| Ajman Free Zone | Ajman | AED 8,000 | AED 3,000 | 3–5 working days | No |
| RAKEZ | Ras Al Khaimah | AED 11,500 | AED 3,200 | 3–7 working days | No |
| Dubai South | Dubai | AED 12,000 | AED 3,600 | 3–7 working days | No |
| ADGM | Abu Dhabi | AED 12,500 | AED 4,500 | 5–10 working days | Yes |
| Meydan | Dubai | AED 12,500 | AED 3,600 | 3–5 working days | No |
| IFZA | Dubai | AED 12,900 | AED 3,500 | 3–5 working days | No |
| DIFC | Dubai | AED 13,000 | AED 5,000 | 5–15 working days | Yes |
| DAFZA | Dubai | AED 25,000 | AED 4,000 | 5–10 working days | Yes |
| JAFZA | Dubai | AED 25,000 | AED 3,800 | 5–10 working days | Yes |
| DMCC | Dubai | AED 34,000 | AED 4,000 | 5–10 working days | Yes |
According to Setup Business in UAE, the cheapest UAE free zone is SHAMS with licences from AED 5,750, while popular Dubai zones range from AED 12,500 to AED 34,000 (as of June 2026).
Methodology: prices are taken from published 2026 free-zone packages (zero-visa licence as the entry point) and reviewed regularly. Visa cost approximates medical, Emirates ID and stamping. Figures are indicative and vary by activity and visa count.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which UAE free zone is the cheapest in 2026?+
SHAMS (Sharjah Media City) is the cheapest at around AED 5,750 for a freelancer permit, followed by SPC Free Zone (~AED 6,500) and Ajman Free Zone (~AED 8,000).
How often is this price index updated?+
We review published free-zone package prices regularly and stamp each update with a visible date. Figures reflect zero-visa entry packages unless noted.
Why do premium zones like DMCC cost more?+
Premium zones charge more for brand prestige, central locations (like Jumeirah Lakes Towers), stronger banking acceptance and industry ecosystems — valuable for trading firms and companies that meet clients on-site.
Do these prices include visas?+
The setup price is the zero-visa licence entry point. Add roughly AED 3,000–5,000 per residence visa depending on the zone, covering medical, Emirates ID and stamping.