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UAE's 5 Cheapest Freezone Trade Licenses You Need to Know

In this article, we dive into Dubai’s 5 most cheapest free zone trade licenses - perfect for entrepreneurs looking to start their business journey in the UAE without breaking the bank. Discover options across Dubai, Sharjah, and beyond

MS
Muhammed ShuhebManaging Director, CSPzone
Published 17 Nov 2025Updated 10 Apr 20263 min read

If you want to start a business in the UAE without spending too much, choosing a low-cost freezone is the best option. As CSPzone consultants, we help entrepreneurs from all over the world set up companies in the cheapest freezones in Dubai and the UAE. This guide explains the most affordable freezones, their starting prices, what activities they offer and how you can start easily.

Key takeaways
  • Low-cost free zones make entry affordable.

  • Top picks include IFZA, RAKEZ, SPC and Ajman.

  • You get 100% ownership.

  • Setup is quick and remote.

  • The right zone fits your budget.

Why Freezones Are a Good Choice

Freezones are popular because they offer easy setup and full freedom. Here are the main benefits:

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• 100 percent foreign ownership
• Full profit repatriation
• Quick business setup
• No need to stay in the UAE to run your company
• Flexible activities under one licence

The Five Cheapest Freezone Licenses in Dubai and the UAE

Below are the most affordable options with simple explanations. Prices may change, so contact CSPzone for the latest details.

1. IFZA Dubai

Starting from AED 7,000

IFZA is one of the most affordable freezones located directly in Dubai. It is suitable for both trading and service businesses.

Popular activities
• General trading
• Import and export
• Furniture trading
• Food and cosmetics trading
• Marketing services
• IT and consulting
• Event management

IFZA also allows you to open a branch if you already own a company abroad.

2. RAKEZ Free Zone

Starting from AED 6,000

RAKEZ is known for low-cost ecommerce licences and flexible activity options.

Activities you can choose
• Industrial and manufacturing
• Trading
• Services
• Professional licences
• Freelance permits
• E-commerce

The RAKEZ ecommerce licence starts from AED 6,000, making it ideal for Amazon sellers and online businesses.

3. Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone

Starting from AED 5,500

SPCFZ offers more than 2000 activities and is one of the most flexible freezones in the UAE.

Popular activities
• General trading
• HR consultancy
• Real estate
• Food and beverage
• Online publishing
• E-commerce

For AED 6,700, you can select up to five activities under one licence.

4. Ajman Free Zone

Starting from AED 5,500

Ajman Free Zone is a strong option for small businesses and freelancers.

Available activities
• Commercial
• Industrial and manufacturing
• Services
• E-commerce
• Freelance activities

Company types offered
• Freezone Establishment
• Freezone Company
• Branch of local company
• Branch of foreign company

5. SHAMS Free Zone

Starting from AED 5,750

SHAMS is popular among digital entrepreneurs and creative professionals.

Activities include
• Media and content creation
• Information technology
• Arts and entertainment
• Recreation
• Consultancy services

It is one of the cheapest options for freelancers and SMEs.

How to Choose the Right Freezone

When selecting a freezone, think about:

  1. Your activity

  2. Whether you need a visa

  3. Your target market

  4. Your long term business plan

  5. Your budget

CSPzone can help you choose the cheapest freezone licence in Dubai or the UAE based on your exact needs.

Let CSPzone Help

If you want an affordable way to start a company in the UAE, these five freezones offer the cheapest licence options. Whether you want to sell online, trade goods, offer services or start a freelance business, there is a freezone to match your budget.

CSPzone handles the full setup process for you, from choosing the activity to completing the paperwork. If you want the exact cost for your plan, contact CSPzone and we will guide you step by step

Note

This article is for general guidance and reflects the rules at the time of writing. Rules and fees change, so please confirm the details for your situation with our team before acting.

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Tell us your plan and we will set up the licence. Sign in to app.cspzone.com and submit your request.

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MS
Written by

Muhammed Shuheb

Muhammed is the Managing Director of CSPzone (RAS Corporate Advisors). He has helped hundreds of founders launch and license their companies across the UAE, from solo online stores to multi-branch retailers.