Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) Free Zone, also known as Umm Al Quwain Free Zone, is a free Zone located in Umm Al Quwain. UAQ is known for being the capital of and largest city in the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain. The economic activities of this city in the United Arab Emirates primarily revolve around fishing.
The stable economy, open investment environment, and low costs of living and labor have determined Umm Al Quwain as a strategic business base. It is within easy reach to the MENA region, Subcontinent, Far East, and European markets.
If you are looking to start your UAE business setup or investing opportunities in Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is a great choice to pursue your goals.
Why Umm Al Quwain Free Zone?
The free zone was originally established in 1987 but became more popular and prominent in the public eye after 2014. This was primarily because by 2014 the free zone had developed into a purpose-driven entity and made itself well known to the public.
Umm Al Quwain free zone is within easy reach of the UAE’s primary seaports and just one hour away from Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport. As a result, this zone ensures easy access to other parts of the world with its location between two major airports that allow for convenient transportation in and out of Umm Al Quwain.
UAQ Free Zone is a cost-effective and strategic location-based choice for many entrepreneurs. It supports various business niches in the UAE.
UAQ Free Zone: Benefits of Setting up a Business in UAQ
- Top-notch tech facilities including warehouses, offices, and land for use
- Suitable for micro-businesses and Small and Medium Enterprises
- Certain Umm Al Quwain seaport fees reduction is available
- Ease in hiring staff from all over the world
- Facilitative measures are undertaken for investor’s ease
- The free zone is located on the UAE’s E311 highway, which extends over 600 km
Alternatives UAE Free Zone for Starting a Business in UAE
- DAFZA Free Zone
- DMCC Free Zone
- DTEC Free Zone
- Dubai South Free Zone
- IFZA Free Zone
- JAFZA Free Zone
- RAKEZ Free Zone
- DPC Free Zone
- DSP Free Zone
- DAZ Free Zone
- DKP Free Zone
- DIC Free Zone
- DSOA Free Zone
- Masdar Free Zone
License Options in UAQ Free Zone
There are various types of business licenses to choose from when it comes to setting up a business at the UAQ free zone. The following are some business licenses you can choose from:
1. Service License
With this type of license, you get to participate in providing services mentioned on the license and within the free zone.
- Logistics
- Courier Services
- Insurance Service Provider
- Travel Agency
- Tour Services
- Car Rental
2. Commercial License
The commercial business license is further broken down into 2 categories:
Commercial License: With this type of business license under the commercial category you get to export, import, distribute and store items mentioned on the license. With this type of license, you may choose between 3 different or 10 similar product lines.
General Trading License: With this type of business license under the commercial category you get to trade in a variety of business activities. This license is preferred by many entrepreneurs due to it allows the holder to trade in any product which is allowed under UAE trading law.
Note: Trading products that are in need of special approval or clearance from various UAE authorities e.g. explosives and armaments cannot be traded with a General Trading license.
3. Industrial License
With an industrial license, you get to participate in activities related to importing, manufacturing, processing, assembling, and packaging raw material. You also get to work on the finished products and export them.
4. Consultancy License
With a Consultancy license, you get to participate in consulting services and appear as those offering expert opinions including craftsmen and artisans.
5. Freelance License
With a Freelance license, you appear as a freelancer. In this case, you appear to offer your freelance services under your own name rather than in the form of a brand or company name. It is primarily but not limited to those representing media, film, and the technology industry.
Requirements for Business Setup in UAQ Free Zone
Basic documents to start your dream business at UAQ Free Zone include the following:
- Passport copy
- Passport size photo
- Residential address and phone number
- Utility bill as proof of address
- Company name options
- Copy of entry stamp to UAE
*Note: that the above-mentioned are basic requirements. Case-to-case variations depending on the type of business activity and business license requires tailored documents. To know exactly which documents you may need to submit, contact us.
The steps to formation are as follows:
- Submit your application with the required documents
- Activity and name approval process
- Official company registration
- Clear dues and payments
- Collect final registration certificate, license, and lease agreement
Umm Al Quwain Free Zone Fees
The costs associated with starting a business at UAQ free zone depend on the type of business license you choose to acquire along with how many UAE Resident visas you need.
License fees at Umm Al Quwain start at 8,000 AED. Office rent charges with included license fees start from 35,000 AED. If you already possess a Flexi-desk you get to save an extra 5,000 AED which would normally otherwise go towards a deposit paid to the immigration for the E-channel system.
*Note: these are basic costs that are subject to change without notice. Also, costs are not limited to the above-mentioned. To know more about various types of fees and costs that may be incurred, contact us.
Pros & Cons of Company Formation in UAQ Free Zone
With the endless options to choose from when picking a free zone, each free zone comes with its own pros and cons.
Pros:
- Best for anyone who would like to start a company as soon as possible
- Best for anyone who is not restricted in terms of being location specific for a free zone
- Economic and affordable as compared to other free zones
Cons
- Limited business activity offerings
- Variable pricing depending on the chosen license
How Airzone Can Help You in Setting up a Business in UAQ Free Zone?
Airzone can assist you in getting your business off the ground if you’re planning to launch one in Dubai. Airzone helps companies establish a foothold in the UAE.
We can guide you through the process of launching a business in Dubai thanks to our experience and knowledge in the field. We’ll work with you to comprehend your company’s goals and ambitions, and we’ll connect you with the right service providers to aid in the development of your enterprise in the United Arab Emirates.
You can get assistance from our dependable partners in Dubai and obtain the necessary trade licenses. We’ll put you in touch with the appropriate experts to handle anything from visa applications to crucial administrative tasks while you concentrate on growing your business.