UAQ FTZ is the UAE's most cost-effective free zone, engineered for startups, freelancers, and SMEs. Get your license issued in as little as 24 hours with 100% ownership and 0% tax.
First-Year Cost From
AED 8,000
License Issuance
1-2 Days
Proximity to Dubai
45 Minutes
Remote Setup
100% Possible
Available Activities
1500+
Established in 1987, Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is a government-backed initiative dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and SMEs. We provide a pro-business environment with streamlined processes, modern infrastructure, and unbeatable affordability, making us the ideal choice for new ventures seeking an efficient entry into the UAE and regional markets.
We've engineered our free zone to maximize your profitability and operational efficiency.
Launch your business with one of the lowest entry costs in the UAE. Our transparent packages are designed to protect your startup capital.
Improve your business cash flow immediately. We are one of the few UAE free zones that does not require a mandatory security deposit for employee visas.
Secure your business license in as little as 24 hours. Our entire incorporation process can be completed online from anywhere in the world.
Combine commercial trading and professional consultancy activities under a single, cost-effective license—a rare flexibility perfect for hybrid business models.
Benefit from a 0% corporate and personal tax environment. Enjoy 100% repatriation of your capital and profits without currency restrictions.
Positioned just 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport, UAQ FTZ offers superb logistics with easy access to major seaports and global markets.
Simple, affordable packages designed for startups and SMEs. No hidden fees, no surprises.
Billed annually
Billed annually
Billed annually
AED Pricing
Simple, affordable packages designed for startups and SMEs. No hidden fees, no surprises.
Total Estimated Cost (Year 1)
Estimated first-year setup fees derived from landing page content.
Cost Phase Timeline
Active Phase 1
AED 3,650
AED 3,000
Choose from a comprehensive range of license types covering over 1,500 business activities.
A few examples from our extensive list of over 1,500 approved activities.
| Activity Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Management Consultancy | Consultancy & Services |
| IT Consultancy | Consultancy & Services |
| Marketing Management | Consultancy & Services |
| E-commerce via Websites | E-Commerce & Trading |
| General Trading | E-Commerce & Trading |
| Computer Software Trading | E-Commerce & Trading |
| Computer Software Design | Technology & Media |
| Digital Services | Technology & Media |
| Information Technology Consultants | Technology & Media |
| Logistics Services | Logistics & Freight |
| Warehousing & Distribution | Logistics & Freight |
| Freight Broker | Logistics & Freight |
Our efficient and fully digital process gets your company licensed and operational in record time.
Phase 1 Focus
Our experts help you choose the right license and activities. Submit your passport copy and required documents through our secure online portal.
Receive your initial approval and a secure payment link. We handle all name reservation and pre-approval paperwork on your behalf.
Upon payment, we issue your official trade license, MOA, and other corporate documents electronically. You are now ready to operate your business.
UAQ FTZ offers one of the lowest entry costs in the UAE, with dedicated E-Commerce licenses that enable access to payment gateways and logistics.
Primary Benefit
Maximize your capital for inventory and marketing with an ultra-low setup cost.
Establish a tax-free operational base and secure a UAE residency visa without the high cost of a physical office, thanks to our affordable flexi-desk packages.
Primary Benefit
Gain a legitimate business license and residency visa with no mandatory security deposit.
Leverage our strategic location, General Trading license, and warehousing facilities to create a cost-effective distribution hub with 100% repatriation of profits.
Primary Benefit
Achieve a fully-owned logistics base at a fraction of the cost of premium Dubai zones.
Our unique dual license allows you to combine trading and consultancy under one entity, solving a major cost and administrative hurdle for multi-faceted businesses.
Primary Benefit
Operate your hybrid business model under one license, saving time and money.
See how our value proposition stands against other popular free zones.
| Feature Highlight | UAQ FTZ | RAKEZ | IFZA (Dubai) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estimated 1-Visa Package | ~AED 13,500 | ~AED 16,000 - 18,000 | ~AED 18,000 - 22,000 |
| Location | Umm Al Quwain (45 mins to DXB) | Ras Al Khaimah (60 mins to DXB) | Dubai (Silicon Oasis) |
| Visa Security Deposit | Not Required | Required | Required |
| Annual Audit | Optional | Mandatory | Mandatory |
| Key Differentiator | Lowest cost, No visa deposit, Dual license | Large industrial ecosystem | Prestigious Dubai address |
This comparison is for illustrative purposes. For precise details, please consult the respective authorities.
Get a personalized, no-obligation quote from our setup experts today and discover the most affordable path to your UAE license.
