INDEX PAGE

A Guide to Setting up a Business in Free Zones Introduction to Free Trade Zones Free Zones in the United Arab (UAE) Free Zones in Dubai • Different Free Zones in Dubai • Dubai Academic City • Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) • Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park Free Zone (DuBiotech) • Dubai Car and Automotive City Free Zone • • Dubai Gold and Diamond Park Free Zone • (DHCC) Free Zone • Dubai Industrial City (DIC) Free Zone • Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) • Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Free Zone • (DIC) Free Zone • Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) Free Zone • (DWTC) Free Zone • Free Zone (DSFZ) • Dubai Logistics City (DLC) Free Zone • (DMC) Free Zone • Dubai Maritime Authority City (DMCA) Free Zone • Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) Free Zone • Dubai Outsource City (DOC) Free Zone • Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) Free Zone • Free Zone • Dubai TechnoPark Free Zone • Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority) • (International Media Production Zone) • Free Zone Authority • Economic Zones World (EZW) Free Zone • (DFC) Free Zone • Meydan Free Zone • International Humanitarian City (IHC) Free Zone Why Set Up a Business in Dubai Free Zones? How Can Commitbiz Help? How Can We Benefit You? Contact Details

To date, the Free Zones in the UAE have been effective in attracting a large number of foreign investors and FOi. The share of the Free Zones in non-oil exports has amplified significantly along with the net exports from the Free Zones. The advan­ tages offered by various Free Zones of the UAE include:

Quick Approval Procedures

100% Tax Exemption

Abundant and Inexpensive Energy

An independent Free Zone Authority (FZA) oversees each free zone and is the agency accountable for issuing FTZ business licenses and assisting companies with establishing their business in the FTZ. Located along the coast of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai was earlier mainly renowned for its oil industry, but the scenario has changed in the last two decades. Dubai is now a global city and a popular business hub at par with western nations, due to its diverse business model that drives the economy in the region. To attract foreign investment and empower the economy, free zones have been set up in Dubai that reward foreign nationals with lucrative incentives for setting up their business in the Emirates.

The Free Zone Authority in Dubai is the government organization that handles registration formalities and issues business licenses to non-resident companies or foreign-owned businesses for company for­ mation in Dubai free zones. Business setup in Dubai free zone brings a sea of opportunities for network­ ing, collaborating, and extensive growth in the business. The appealing tax regime and many incentives offered by the free zone authorities make Dubai the most preferred nation by an investor for company formation. Dubai Academic City Dubai Academic City (DAC) is a free zone established in the year 2006 by TECOM Investments and covers an area of almost 129 million square feet. It aims to make Dubai an education hub, an initiative the Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) is also a part of. DKV has got an extensive network connection with multi-na­ tional universities worldwide. Down the line, after the initiation of DAC, DKV and DAC joined their hands to boost and bring a positive slope in the educational sector. Dubai Academic City also embraces Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) that includes nearly 28 international universities and provides a platform for almost 450 courses, with a strength of 24,000 learners. According to a report published in 207 7, DIAC holds the largest number of branch campuses in . They also have an incubation centre that encourages budding entrepreneurs and their business partners to present their business ideas. Types of Companies in Dubai Academic City As mentioned, the centre provides opportunities for foreign investors to build and grow their business. Let's have a look at the types of companies that can be incorporated within DAC.

1. Free Zone Limitedliability Company Such companies possess their own legal identity. The amount of incorporation depends upon the nature of the business.

2. Branch of a Foreign or Home Company DAC welcomes any foreign or home company to initiate its branch in DAC campus.

3. Freelancing This provides a platform to individuals who want to be a freelancer professional and after that can establish their sole proprietor company on their name. Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority {DAFZA)

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) a place for 1600 companies from all around the globe carrying out their operations in the UAE. Established in 1996, DAFZA is a strategic plan of the UAE government towards an investment-driven economy. Dubai Airport Free Zone is one of the fastest-growing free zones in Dubai.

There are various business industries present in DAFZA, like aviation, freight & logistics, IT & telecommu­ nications, pharmaceuticals, engineering, food & beverage, jewellery, and cosmetics. Dubai Airport Free Zone is located next to Dubai International Airport, which provides numerous amenities to the industries established in DAFZA. International investors reap great benefit from the dynamic growth of this Dubai Free Zone, through the free trade zone's excellent tax and investment incentives. Permissible Legal Entities in DAFZA

DAFZA permits 2 types of legal entities to establish their operation in this Dubai free zone:

1. Free Zone Establishment (FZE) A Free Zone Establishment must fulfil the following requirements: It should have between 1 to 50 shareholders [a shareholder can be an individual or a corporate body] The minimum capital required is AED 1,000 Each share should be in the denomination of AED 1,000

2. Branch Office of an Existing Company

Any foreign company can open its branch office in Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ), for which no minimum capital is required.

Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park Free Zone (DuBiotech)

Dubai is a spectacular city of innovation and technology which has free zones for the development of every sector of the city. DuBiotech is a Dubai Free zone which was established to develop biotechnology and research. The Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) was launched in the year 2005 by Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, making it a world attraction for biotechnology and phar­ maceutical companies.

This is the first free zone which is built and dedicated to the research and development of life science methods. DuBiotech invites and encourages companies and investors from all around the globe to form their biotech and other related companies in this free zone and contribute their work. Permissible Business Entities in DuBiotech

DuBiotech is one of the best spots for bio-manufacturing companies. Such companies can set up their business in this Dubai Free Zone under any of the following 3 legal business forms: m Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) A free zone limited liability company should have a minimum capital of AED 50,000, but for a company falling under one of these segments, the minimum capital required is AED 300,000: • Manufacturing and Production Activity under the Therapeutics Segment • Manufacturing and Production Activity under the Food Segment • Manufacturing and Production Activity under the Agricultural, Forestry & Horticulture Segment • Manufacturing and Production Activity under the Environment Segment • Manufacturing and Production Activity under the Medical/Scientific Devices or Equipment Segment • Manufacturing and Production Activity under the Specialty Supplies Segment

Branch of a UAE Based Company

The company should be registered under the UAE government, and the individual or corporate person should be a resident of the UAE. There is no requirement of minimum capital.

• Branch of a Foreign Company

Any foreign-based company can open their branch in the DuBiotech free zone without any minimum capital. The individual or corporate person need not be a resident of the UAE . In these sectors, companies have the following business licensing options: • Marketing license • Industrial Activity license • Warehousing license • Import and Re-export license • Consultancy license • Service Activities license • Community Organizations license Dubai Car and Automotive City Free Zone Dubai Cars and Automotive City were established in April 2000 with an aim to re-export used cars to the Asian and African markets. Also known as DUCAMZ, it is located in Ras Al Khor. It has easy access to the regional airport and seaport, including Dubai International Airport and the Jebel Ali Port as well as modern highways which link the Middle East countries. The total size of this free zone is 8 million sq. ft, making DUCAMZ free zone the most extensive free zone of its kind. They offer comprehensive infrastructure to meet the high demands in the automotive industry, providing competent highway connectivity and boosting all mod cons necessary to relocate cars within and outside the region.

The vehicles sold by DUCAMZ are divided into two categories:

Left-hand drive vehicles to be exported to the Right-hand drive vehicles dedicated to African local markets and fall under the regulations of countries mostly. the UAE

Procedure to Set Up a Business in DUCAMZ

Jebel Ali free zone authorities administer the Dubai Car and Automotive City Free Zone. They have made the registration process simple by putting the administrative office in a central location. The administra­ tion intends to promote investment and business formation in the zone with a simplified procedure. • Fill the form and apply for initial approval. • Submit the legal documents for registration of the company • Sign and return customer confirmation letter, and make payment • Sign the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA) • Deposit the share capital • Sign the lease and personnel sponsorship agreement Dubai Design District

Located in the heart of the city, Dubai Design District was launched in the year 2013 by the UAE's Prime Minister and the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The vision behind launching the Dubai Design District free zone was to build a tailor-made design hub that would foster emerging local talent and provide a home for creative thinkers. It is a global design and fashion hub and taps into the vast potential of the luxury fashion and interior design industry. Also known as D3, the free zone is home to companies large and small, from local boutique design studios to prestigious global fashion houses. The market plays a vital role in the popularity of D3, with the fashion and design industries booming in the region. As for its geographical location, the Design District Dubai is next to the area of Dubai in the centre of the city, close to , hence very strategically placed. Types of Entities in Dubai Design District Free Zone 01 Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)

• This is a wholly owned company or, in simple words, and independent legal entity. This type of entity is required to have at least 1 director. 02 Branch Office of a UAE Company

• This is not a separate legal entity and conducts all or some of the operations inherent in its parent com­ pany's business. 03 Branch Office of a Foreign Company

• This is 51 % locally owned with no prerequisite for a minimum share capital. A branch office may conduct all or some of the operations inherent in its parent's business. 04 Freelance Permit

• Having this type of license offers an individual the ability to operate as a freelance professional. It enables the practitioner to conduct a business under the birth name, as opposed to a brand name. Dubai Gold and Diamond Park Free Zone Founded in 2011, the flagship attraction and treasure trove of some of the finest jewels in the world, Gold and Diamond Park is another free zone in Dubai city. Strategically located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Gold, and Diamond Park has become an attractive spot for the residents and also for foreign tourists visiting the city. Gold and Diamond Park has a collection of the most spectacular jewellery, precious stones, gemstones, gold, silver, platinum, and many other high-end accessories & ornaments. The Gold and Diamond Park is built to provide a bundle of all the precious jewels in the world under a single roof and make it hassle-free for customers to trade in gold and diamonds. The jewellery the park consists of is worth billions of dollars. • Gold and Diamond Park Dubai caters to and fosters: • A manufacturing block (comprising 118 manufacturing units) • A retail centre (a mixture of 37 retail units of approximately 323 square feet to 1107 square feet each, all of which have been leased out) Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) Free Zone Established in 2002 by the UAE Prime Minister and Dubai's Ruler His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) lies in the heart of the city and is one of the numerous specialized 'cities-within-a-city' in Dubai meant for healthcare and pharmaceutical industries_ Located beside Rashid Hospital in , DHCC is at a stone's throw distance from the serene environs of the Creek Side Park and and is reachable through Sheikh Zayed Road from Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. DHCC is dedicated to excellence in healthcare and patient care across multiple specialities and is continu­ ally adding new services and expertise under its wing to establish itself as the pioneer in global healthcare. The entire gamut of medical services is delivered at Dubai Healthcare City by eminent healthcare profes­ sionals who follow international quality standards to provide the best medical help to the patients. Benefits of Business Setup in DHCC Dubai Healthcare City delivers conventional diagnostic and treatment services of international standards in a highly convenient setting equipped with modern outpatient facilities, surgical clinics, analytical and diagnostic laboratories, state-of-the-art surgical suites, and commercial offices. Additionally, it houses various speciality hospitals, physician offices, rehabilitation centres, general hospitals, and ambulatory surgery centres. Apart from this, there are many reasons why you can set up your business of healthcare in Dubai; some of these are listed below: •Access to a network of regional healthcare professionals • Availability of flexible real estate options as per one's requirements • High-tech facilities • Integrated healthcare community providing specialized first-class medical care • Low operational costs •Access to top-notch specialized medical care • Access to the best quality of medical equipment, devices and a global network of doctors • Access to a practice, education & research network Dubai Industrial City (DIC) Free Zone

Dubai Industrial City (DIC), also known as Dubai Industrial Park, located near the Jebel Ali International Airport, was founded in 2004 and completed in the year 2015. DIC is stretched over a sprawling area of 560 million sq. ft., which now accommodates more than 200 companies, food & beverage zone, base-metal & transportation zone, warehouses, and an extensive conservation zone along with logistics, education, and other facilities. DIC is an ideal hub for investors who are targeting global markets. Dubai Industrial City (DIC) is a member of TECOM Investments and is the most massive Information and Com­ munications Technology (ICT) hub in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Types of Legal Entities in Dubai Industrial Park

The following 2 types of companies can be registered in DIC: m Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC) • Shareholders can be an individual or a corporate person • It should have at least 1 director • The minimum capital requirement is AED 50,000 m Branch of a Local Registered Company a Foreign Company • It is a base to conduct activities of the parent company in another city or country • No minimum capital is required Dubai International Academic City {DIAC) Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) free zone is dedicated to higher education and the pursuit of intellectual growth. DIAC was launched in April 2007 to cater to the needs of the region's growing and diverse academic community. It serves over 24,000 students from all around the world by being home to numerous national and international colleges. They have nearly 400 undergraduate and postgraduate programs that a re offered to these students. It is a premier destination for higher education in the region, located on a well-furnished 18 million sq. ft. campus with state-of-the-art facilities. DIAC continues to expand and grow as per the needs of its robust and talented academic community. The region provides a unique cluster environment where companies across the industry mutually share a work campus that is dedicated to their industry, where they also can collaborate and interact effectively. Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Free Zone Established in September 2004, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the world's fastest-grow­ ing international financial centre that caters to the financial needs of the region. Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) is an independent risk-based regulator and the governing body that regulates financial and banking services conducted by DIFC and provides them with a growth-oriented, secure and stable platform to conduct business. This regulatory body issues business licenses to companies planning to set up operations in this largest intercontinental financial cluster located between Singapore and Europe. Since its establishment, DI FC has attracted top-notch firms across the globe, owing to its efficiency, operational transparency and core value of integrity. DIFC is home to a world-class stock exchange, the Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX), which was opened in September 2005. Financial Activities Allowed in DIFC Businesses operating in Dubai International Financial Centre free zone are allowed to perform the fol­ lowing activities in the region: • Accepting deposits • Advising on financial products • Arranging for the custody, and investment credit or deals • Carrying out contracts of insurance • Dealing in investments as an agent or as principal • Effecting insurance contracts • Insurance broking and management • Managing assets • Managing profit-sharing investments • Operating a collective investment scheme • Providing credit • Providing custody • Providing pecuniary services

Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) is the world's only free zone in the city of Dubai, which is ultimately into human resource management, professional learning, and educational intelligence. It was established in the year 2003 by TECOM group. This free zone aims to develop the talent pool in the region and make the UAE a knowledge-based economy. With over 450 business partners, DKV aims to establish itself as a trusted business partner and a centre of excellence for business development. Considering the need to cater to the training and development sector, DKV has transformed itself as the single free zone entirely dedicated to Human Resource Development and Learning Excellence. Types of Companies in DKV Free Zone

1. Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) It is formed as a separate legal entity with shareholders as individuals and/or corporate entities.

2. Branch of a Foreign Company A branch is an overseas office of a business that is legally dependent on its parent company.

3. Freelancer A freelancer can work as a business of one's own accord, providing products or services under one's own name. Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) free zone was started to provide an effective, competitive, and well-reg­ ulated business ecosystem to compete effectively in local and international markets. The free zone is under the jurisdiction of the Dubai World Trade Center Authority (DWTCA) and enjoys corporate body status, financial and administrative autonomy and full legal power to carry out its duties and activities. The World Trade Center free zone has a strategic location like the iconic World Trade Center and the adjoining Dubai Trade Center District. From an investor's point of view, this free zone provides strong incentives for businesses to use Dubai as a springboard to enter a local or the international market. Its primary focus on hospitality, entertainment, and amenities within a periphery make Dubai World Trade Center free zone a complete, convenient, and connected business environment. Benefits of Business Setup in DWTC Free Zone

1. Simplified Registration Process The DWTC authority provides a simplified company incorporation process for an entrepreneur or an existing firm. Your business can be registered in a matter of weeks.

2. A Thriving Business Hub Dubai is perfectly situated to access the world's developing economy, which makes it an ideal location to start a business. 3. Competitive Edge Dubai World Trade Centre's location, coupled with its low setup costs can offer businesses a real competitive edge in terms of business growth and profitability. Dubai South Free Zone {DSFZ)

The has built Dubai South to create an environment that empowers individuals to achieve all their aspirations for the greater good of society. Formerly known as the Dubai World Central, Dubai South Free Zone is an ambitious project by the Government of Dubai to make this free zone a most extensive business and aviation hub in the region. It is recognized as one of the most pioneering and exceptional projects in Dubai. The most important reason is its being host to one of the largest business events in the region - the World Expo 2020. The heart of Dubai South is just a 10-minute drive away from Jebel Ali seaport - one of the busiest ports of the world, and a 15-minute drive away from Al Maktoum International Airport - one of the largest airports in the world. It is a region that empowers everyone to achieve their ambitions and desires.

Transport, Storage & Communication Dubai Logistics City {DLC) Free Zone Dubai Logistics City (DLC), also known as Dubai World Central, is the world's first platform which was built for the purpose and development of logistics. DLC has been created to promote and provide better logistic and trade facilities in the UAE. Dubai Logistics is a government initiative which is the world's first purpose-built aerotropolis. DLC is built in the neighbouring region of Jebel Ali Sea Port, covering an area of 140 sq. km. This Dubai free zone is the biggest and most ambitious project taken up by the government to increase the trading opportunities for the Emirate but also houses other business communities like restaurants, shops, leisure facilities, and other services with beautiful geography. Logistics-driven companies have a great scope, and business growth in DLC as all the amenities and benefits here are focused only on the development of the logistics and trade sector of the UAE. Dubai Logistics City (DLC) Free Zone

Dubai Logistics City (DLC), also known as Dubai World Central, is the world's first platform which was built for the purpose and development of logistics. DLC has been created to promote and provide better logistic and trade facilities in the UAE. Dubai Logistics is a government initiative which is the world's first purpose-built aerotropolis. DLC is built in the neighbouring region of Jebel Ali Sea Port, covering an area of 140 sq. km. This Dubai free zone is the biggest and most ambitious project taken up by the govern­ ment to increase the trading opportunities for the Emirate but also houses other business communities like restaurants, shops, leisure facilities, and other services with beautiful geography. Logistics-driven companies have a great scope, and business growth in DLC as all the amenities and benefits here are focused only on the development of the logistics and trade sector of the UAE. Legal Entities in Dubai Logistics City

01 Free Zone - Limited Liability Company • It is a legal entity with its legal stature. • Liability of a shareholder in a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is limited to the value of the share capital one holds •A Free Zone-LLC must have shareholders, directors, company secretary, and a general manager. • The minimum capital required to start a Free Zone-LLC is AED 300,000, with a minimum share value of AED 1

02 Branch Office of a UAE Company • A branch is a representative office of an existing legal entity outside the free zone •A branch office in Dubai Logistics City cannot have a board of directors or a company secretary •A branch must have a general manager who is responsible for its business activities • The name of a branch must be the same as the name of its parent company and end with the designa­ tion, i.e., "branch." Dubai Media City (DMC) Free Zone Dubai Media City (DMC) was established in January 2000, as a part of this vision, DMC was set up to create a world-class environment for global and regional media companies as well as independent media professionals in the . Dubai Media City (DMC) is operated under the jurisdiction of Dubai Technology & Media Free Zone Authority (DTMFZA), now renamed as Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA) and is managed by TECOM Investments, a Dubai based company and a subsidiary of , which is dedicated towards knowledge and life-improving industries. Companies of every kind in Dubai Media City have been operating with collective synergy, including media and marketing services, printing and publishing, music, film, new media, leisure and entertainment, broadcasting and information agencies.

Licensing Options for Dubai Media City Companies Once you have decided your business segment and type of legal entity you going to choose for your business idea, here are a few business licenses you can opt for: • Business Information Services License • Consultancy and Retail License • Event Leisure License • Media Marketing Services License • New Media Support Service License Dubai Maritime Authority City (DMCA) Free Zone For centuries, Dubai had attracted the interest of seafarers and global traders because of its strategic placement between Europe and Asia and witnessed the subsequent emergence as a happening trading centre in 1833 when a trading port was set up in the city. A part of the Dubai World Group of companies, (DMC) holds the distinction of being the world's first strategically-built maritime centre that has been created not only to cater to the requirements of the maritime sector but also to provide a world-class environment for the global maritime community and act as a platform for network­ ing and integration of different maritime businesses and services, adding extra value to the entire maritime community. The main regulatory body of DMC, the Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA) was created in 2007 to develop, monitor, and promote maritime activities. It aims for the maritime community to have a dynamic urban lifestyle. Types of Business Licenses Available in DMC

1. Marine Crafts License For foreign and local companies to build and use vessels in accordance with international maritime standards.

2. Maritime Commercial License For companies engaged in maritime activities in Dubai and individuals who engage in recreational activities in Dubai waters

3. Maritime Operation Services License For companies operating in waste management in sea water.

4. Maritime Education and Research License For entities into the field of education and research in maritime affairs.

5. Commercial License A commercial is required to be obtained by companies and individuals involved in general maritime activities. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) Free Zone

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) is the world's premier free trade zone. It has grown into the com­ modity centre for not just the Middle East but for the entire world. DMCC is unlike any other Dubai Free Zone but with a lot of potential and opportunity for the retail and commerce sector. The DMCC free zone is the gateway to global trade and the exclusive spot for retail exposure to growing your business. DMCC has been crowned 'Global Free Zone of the Year' by the Financial Times FOi magazine for three consecu­ tive years, and it has been home to a vibrant community, innovative infrastructure, world-class services and an attractive choice of properties, all minutes from excellent air, sea and road links to the world Types of Business Licensing Options in DMCC Free Zone

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre provides an environment which accommodates many business activi­ ties and provides an excellent deal for all types of businesses. DMCC's licensing authority offers the fol­ lowing licensing options: • Trading License • Service License • Industrial License Companies can also go for other business licenses which are permitted and according to their business activity.

Launched in the year 2005, Dubai Studio City is one among the several media-driven, capitalized initia­ tives made by the Dubai Holding Subsidiary TE COM Investments. Also called DSC free zone, it offers the right combination of planned infrastructure, talent pool, and a dynamic business environment to support the growth of broadcast, movie, television, and music production companies in the Middle East region. It is spread across 22 million sq. ftand features pre-built studios, sound stages, warehouses, workshops, office spaces, latest satellite communication facilities, stage areas, etc.

Licensing Cost in DIC Particulars Cost in AED

Registration Fees 3,500 Dubai TechnoPark Free Zone Dubai TechnoPark is a member of the Economic Zone World, which functions under Dubai World, one of the largest holding companies in the world. Dubai TP is a platform for the development and invention of modern technologies for the betterment of life. This Dubai free zone aims at providing a flexible environ­ ment for the companies involved in the production of technology. Dubai TechnoPark, also called National Industrial Park (NIP), has been formed by a decree issued by the Ruler of Dubai on March 7, 207 6, focusing on trade and manufacturing industries. Dubai TechnoPark free zone is a facility providing housing for 60,000 residents and employment for 133,000 employees in Dubai. TechnoPark of Dubai is a place for innovation which makes you think beyond your limits for you to build a successful business. Permissible Legal Entities in Dubai TechnoPark 1. Limited Liability Company The number of shareholders can range from 2 to 50 Minimum share capital required is AED 300,000, which is equally divided into shares with a minimum face value of AED 7 000 The local sponsor should hold 51 % of shares

2. Sole Establishment (Commercial/Industrial) Owned by an individual who is responsible for and authorized to handle all the operations of the business The owner must be a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) national

3. Civil Company Formed as a civil partnership following the Federal Civil Transactions Law No. 5 of 1985 with its amendments Suited to activities involving the use or investment in intellectual faculties, acquired information or the use of skills Professional companies maybe 100% foreign-owned

4. Branch Company There can different types of branch companies in Dubai TechnoPark: Branch of a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) Branch of a Free Zone Company (FZCO) Branch of a Foreign Company Branch of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) Branch of a Sole Establishment based in the Emirate of Dubai Branch of a GCC Company (the mother company should have 100% GCC shares) Dubai Production City (International Media Production Zone) Dubai Production City, formerly known as International Media Production Zone (IMPZ), was established in the year 2003 as an evolving replica of Dubai Media City. IMPZ is a Dubai free zone which is leveraged towards the dedicated media and production companies in the UAE. IMPZ is an ideal Dubai free zone for nearly all media companies, including broadcasting, internet, and others. The IMPZ free zone is located near Jumeirah Village South and provides many benefits for companies which are involved in printing & publishing, graphic designing, and other media-oriented activities. Licensing and Business Activity Options DCCA is the regulatory body which provides the necessary license as per requests. Here are a few licens­ ing options you can choose from:

• A license granted for publishing activity.

• This license can be availed to carry out activities like travel, insurance, courier services, legal advisory, marketing, and others.

• The license holder of this license can take up the profession of graphic designing.

There are other licensing options available in IMPZ which companies can choose from. The business activities which can be carried out in IMPZ under the rules and regulations of DCCA are: • Marketing • Import and export • Support services • Digital and newspaper printing • Commercial and industrial printing • Online publishing and electronic content Established in 1985, (JAFZA) is the flagship operation of Dubai based and state-owned 'Economic Zones World' (one of the world's most prominent developers of economic zones, logistics, and R&D-driven industrial parks). It offers light industrial units, land, offices, and warehouses on a long-term lease. JAFZA has manifested itself as a globally renowned commercial and industrial hub, attracting creme de la creme investors from the Middle East region, Europe, the Indian Subcontinent, America, Africa, and other nations owing to its unique value-added propositions. Why Set Up a Business in JAFZA? Jebel Ali Free Zone offers a vibrant networking atmosphere, friendly business climate, and excellent logis­ tics matrices. JAFZA holds the distinction of being the only free zone in the world that is situated between a seaport and an airport. Apart from being one of the world's most efficient sea-air hubs, the other features that make JAFZA free zone an ideal location for company formation are: • No paid upfront share capital requirement • Land, warehousing, and office space available • Access to a consumer market of over 2 billion • Facilities like the convention centre and on-site residential complexes JAFZA has some of the biggest names to boast of in the business world. Exxon Mobil, General Electric, Proctor and Gamble, Nestle, Toshiba, Rolls Royce, etc. are some of the companies present in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. Over 50 of the world's top logistics companies are based in JAFZA offering tremendous out­ sourcing opportunities. These companies are a driving force for any entrepreneur to set up a business in this Dubai free zone. Economic Zones World (EZW) Free Zone Headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Economic Zones World (EZW) free zone is committed to the ownership, operation, management and development of free trade zones and industrial parks under the Dubai World Group. This free zone was established in 2006 to provide a robust network of infrastruc­ ture platforms of such zones and parks across the globe to support the dynamic expansion of its booming international customer base. EZW operates as a subsidiary of DP World FZE and is a responsible and socially committed global organization which aims to deploy its evolving dynamic and customer-cen­ tric business models to grow and maintain a sustainable society wherever it operates while achieving quality commercial success for its corporate ventures. The free zone is currently operating in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. Types of Company Formation in EZW 1. Free Zone Company (FZCO) This type of company requires a minimum of 2 shareholders for its incorporation. 2. Free Zone Establishment (FZE) This type of company can be established by a sole proprietor or corporate shareholder. 3. Branch Office A foreign company may establish its office in EZW as a branch office.

Dubai Flower Centre (DFC) Free Zone Dubai Flower Centre (DFC) is the new hub for the growth of the floriculture industry in Dubai. It is located near Dubai International Airport and is established to meet the needs of the developing floriculture centre in the country. The flower centre's first phase was finished in the year 2004 at the cost of $50 million. The construction is not yet completed and will continue in two more stages. At present, the Dubai Flower Centre has 19 tenants coming from 11 countries and is expected to serve two billion consumers once fully operational. Thus, Dubai Flower Center Free Zone apart from increasing the country's revenue and offering jobs to the locals also allows people from other countries to take part in the industry .. Business Activities Allowed in DFC Any activity related to perishable items like floriculture, horticulture, fruits & vegetables, etc. is allowed in DFC. The free zone also allows: • Trading • Logistics • Retail Types of Business Entities in DFC • Free zone Establishment • Free zone company • Branch of a foreign company Developed around the prestigious Racecourse in Dubai, Meydan Free Zone (MFZ) serves as one of the cost-effective destinations for startups and business formation. The free zone is located in , and its development has led to a widespread commercial space which includes commercial prop­ erties, hotels, entertainment facilities, sports venues, and residential communities. The main aim of Meydan free zone is streamlined to encourage the entrepreneurs with low-cost startups to flourish. This makes the Meydan Free Zone Authority a viable prospect for foreign investment in the heart of the interna­ tional horse racing and the equestrian scene in the Middle East.

Types of Business Entities Allowed in MFZ The following types of business entities are allowed in MFZ: • Sole Establishment (FZ) • Limited Liability Company (LLC-FZ) • Branch/Representative Office International Humanitarian City (IHC) Free Zone The International Humanitarian City (IHC) was created in the year 2003 by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, as an aid and humanitarian hub offering services and facilities to the global opera­ tions of humanitarian organizations and commercial suppliers to assist the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian operations. IHC provides an excellent environment to foster partnership and social responsibility in a clear legal framework. IHC was launched by the government as an independent author­ ity and is a non-religious, non-political, and non-profit organization.

How Can Commitbiz Help? Commitbiz Management Consultants help you with strategic business inputs, handle all the legal docu­ mentation, and give complete business advisory solutions to ensure hassle-free business incorporation.

Our professional experts are well-versed with the incorporation procedures and maintain a vision to accelerate your Fujairah Free Zone business setup and the rest of the UAE.

Commitbiz was established in 2007 with a vision to provide world-class management advisory services to enterprises in the private, government, non-government and academic sectors. Over the years, we have developed comprehensive capabilities in several functional and specialty segments. We have emerged as the chosen partner in several innovative and path-breaking initiatives undertaken by various businessmen across the world. With over 50 team members and 2,000+ clients, we are now one of the top business consulting firms in the UAE.

How Can We Benefit You? Standing as one of the top business consultants in the UAE, we assist you in the following processes: • Help you establish the business pillars post-incorporation process like accounting, taxation, etc. • Strategies to accelerate your business growth. • Streamline your business activities. • Comply with the legal rules and regulations. • Provide tailored business solutions. • If you are planning to step ahead and set up your company in the Ajman, UAE, do contact us today-we'd be glad to assist. Contact Us

Dubai Abu Dhabi Sharjah Commitbiz Management Commitbiz Management Commitbiz Management Consultants, Consultants, Consultants, Dubai Abu Dhabi Sharjah

10th floor #5, Suite no. 201 Level 2 #05, Level 1 Dubai World Trade Center P. O. B o x 2 6 3 8 9 AM Building Sheikh Zayed Road Land Mark Plaza Building Rolla Squire, Rolla Street P. O. B o x 2 9 3 8 1 6 Next to Al Salama Hospital Dubai P. O. B o x 1 2 0 9 2 2 Hamdan Street United Arab Emirates Sharjah Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates United Arab Emirates Phone: +971 4 3867444 Fax: +971 4 3867474 Phone: +971 6 5527902 Phone: +971 2 6434601 Mob: +971 56 5927847 Mob: +971 52 1056207 Fax: +971 2 6434603 [email protected] [email protected] Mob: +971 55 7548296 [email protected]

Bahrain London Commitbiz Management Consultants Commitbiz Management Consultants Bahrain London

Ground Floor Level 17, AS Gate Building Dashwood House Hawar Hwy 69 Old Broad Street, Kingdom of Bahrain London EC2M 1QS P.O.Box: 37100 United Kingdom [email protected] Phone: +973-77110288 Fax: +973-77110388 [email protected] **The contents of this document are for information only and are intended to provide a brief introduction as to the potential opportunities that may be available in the location. The information contained in this document is general by its nature and not tailored nor specific to individual requirements.