IFZA, Meydan, SHAMS — which Free Zone should I pick?
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority): lowest startup cost, 1 visa allotment — for solo founders. Meydan: mid-tier, 3+ visa allotments, professional image. SHAMS (Sharjah): optimal for creative industries (media, design). We recommend each based on your goal.
Free Zone vs Mainland — what's the difference?
Free Zone: 100% foreign ownership, tax advantages, but direct sales to the UAE mainland require a "UAE distributor". Mainland (DED): direct UAE-mainland sales + government tenders but requires an Ejari tenancy, high cost. Free Zone suffices for most solo founders.
Do I need to travel to the UAE?
Free Zone formation is fully remote. Only bank-account opening and Emirates ID biometric (if getting the investor visa) require travel — typically 5–7 days in the UAE. Visa is in a separate package ($1,290), not in this one.
Does the 9% Corporate Tax apply to Free Zone entities?
0% on annual profit below AED 375,000. Above that 9% — but if you achieve Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status, "qualifying income" earned in the Free Zone stays at 0%. QFZP criteria are strict; this package includes the assessment.
What are the annual licence renewal costs?
IFZA: $1,800–$2,500/yr (Free Zone fee), Meydan: $2,500–$3,500/yr, SHAMS: $2,000–$3,000. Establishment Card renewal ($300–$500), Wio or Mashreq monthly $0. Total annual operating cost $2,500–$4,000.