Free Zone Trade License Setup — Fast, Clear, Practical Support
We guide entrepreneurs through Free Zone trade license formation in the UAE, handling documentation, application submission, and liaison with Free Zone authorities to make setup smoother and more efficient.
Overview
AL SAHRAA helps international and local founders establish Free Zone companies in Dubai, Ajman, and other UAE Free Zones. We provide practical assistance through each administrative step, from selecting the correct license type to submitting the final application. Our team clarifies eligibility, costs, and timelines so you can plan with confidence. We coordinate required paperwork, communicate with the Free Zone authority on your behalf, and assist with ancillary needs such as tenancy proof and bank introduction letters. While we are not a law firm, we offer non-legal drafting coordination and administrative follow-through to reduce delays. Our approach is people-first: we start with your business activity and objectives, recommend the most suitable Free Zone options, and keep you informed until the license is issued. Post-setup support options such as renewals and amendments are available to keep your company compliant.
What to prepare
- Passport copy of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- Proof of residence (utility bill or tenancy contract)
- Completed application form and signed shareholder declaration
- Business plan or brief activity description (if requested by Free Zone)
- No-objection letter or existing trade license (if transferring activities)
- Specimen signature and passport-sized photos
How the process works
- Initial consultation to identify business activity, Free Zone options, and license type
- Company name reservation and preparation of application forms
- Submission of documents and application to the selected Free Zone authority
- Follow-up with the authority, collection of approvals, and issuance of the trade license
- Post-issuance guidance on visa quota, bank introductions, and renewals
Why clients choose AL SAHRAA
- Admin-reviewed quotations before you proceed.
- Document coordination and progress tracking in one portal.
- Support for business, compliance, visa, insurance, and IT-related requests.
- Clear request history, updates, and delivery follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Free Zone trade license setup typically take?
Timelines vary by Free Zone and completeness of documents; many straightforward applications are processed within a few days to a few weeks. We provide a timeline estimate during the consultation.
Can I hold 100% ownership in a Free Zone company?
Most UAE Free Zones allow full foreign ownership, but specifics depend on the chosen Free Zone and activity. We’ll confirm ownership rules for your selected jurisdiction.
Do you provide legal advice or draft shareholder agreements?
We offer non-legal drafting coordination for documents like MOA/AOA and assist with administrative preparation. For legal advice or bespoke contracts, we recommend consulting a licensed legal professional.
What costs should I expect beyond the license fee?
Common additional costs include office or flex-desk rent, visa fees, registration and stamping fees, and any third-party services like bank account setup. We outline anticipated fees during the onboarding.
Can you help with bank account introductions?
We can provide bank introduction support and coordinate documentation, but final account opening decisions are made by the bank and subject to their compliance requirements.
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