Umm Al Quwain Free Zone Company Setup
Umm Al Quwain Free Zone (UAQ FTZ) is strategically located in the emirate of Umm Al Quwain, offering a business-friendly environment with modern infrastructure and competitive advantages. UAQ FTZ is close to two strategic locations, the Ahmed Bin Rashid Port, and Umm Al Thoub.
Established to support the growth of SMEs and large enterprises alike, UAQ FTZ provides a cost-effective and efficient platform for businesses to thrive. Investors in Umm Al Quwain can leverage its steady economy, low cost of living and labor, and imports/ exports.
The free zone is a popular destination for businesses in hospitality, recreation, tourism, trade, manufacturing, and fisheries. If you plan to branch out of Dubai or have a lucrative startup in the UAE, Umm Al Quwain Free Zone is the place to be.
Why Set Up a Business in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone?
Umm Al Quwain Free Zone was established in 1988 and is located on the West Coast of the UAE. Because of its proximity to the local ports, UAQ Free Zone serves as a global trade center, offering various business opportunities for investors.
UAQ Free Trade Zone offers 1500 business options that you can choose from, with great business stability. It is becoming the top choice for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and global corporations alike because of its favorable tax laws, top-notch infrastructure, access to global markets, and low cost of business setup.
Benefits of Setting Up a Company in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone
- 100% foreign ownership
- 100% repatriation of profits and capital
- 100% Exemption on imports and exports
- No currency restrictions
- No minimum capital requirement
- Business-friendly regulations
- Easy company registration
- Special concession for trading companies
- No corporate or personal tax
- Bespoke offices and warehouse facilities
- Low-cost labor force
- Access to sea and airports
Types of Licenses in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone offers more than 1500 business activities. There are various licenses to choose from when it comes to setting up your company in UAQ Free Zone.
- Service License: For businesses providing professional services such as consulting, IT, and marketing.
- Commercial License: For trading activities including import, export, re-export, distribution, and storage.
- General Trading License: Allows for a wider range of trading activities across multiple product categories.
- Industrial License: For manufacturing and industrial activities, allowing for production and assembly operations.
- Consultancy License: Specifically for professional consultancy services across various sectors.
- Freelance License: Ideal for solo entrepreneurs and freelancers offering professional services.

Best Businesses to Start in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone
Umm Ul Quwain Free Zone Authority permits a full range of business activities and is not limited to a few sectors. Because of its open investment climate, UAQ FTZ is a great place for investors. Here are some of the best businesses to start in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone:
- Trading Activities
- Manufacturing and Industrial
- Consulting and Professional Services
- Fisheries
- Logistics and Warehousing
- Transportation
- Ship management and cargo handling
- IT and Software Development
- Education and Training
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Financial Services
- E-commerce and Online Retail
- Healthcare and Medical Services
- Restaurants and Cafes
- General Trading
Types of Legal Entities in UAQ FTZ
Umm Ul Quwain Free Trade Zone offers various types of legal entities that can be established in the region, such as:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Suitable for a single shareholder.
- Free Zone Company (FZC): Suitable for businesses with 2 to 50 shareholders.
- A branch of an existing company in UAE or offshore.
The minimum capital requirement is around 300,000 AED, with a share value of AED 1000. Multiple licenses are available for companies, and UAQ FTZ also allows you to mix different activities into one license. Commercial licenses can include 10 similar, or 3 different categories.
Business entities can also get dual licenses at the time of entry. For example, an entity with a commercial license can obtain a service or consultancy license for the same company.
How to Setup a Business in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone [Steps]
Follow these steps to launch your business in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone easily:
Choose a Business Activity
Determine the type of business activity you wish to undertake and select the appropriate license.
Select a Company Name
Choose a unique company name that complies with UAQ FTZ naming regulations. Forward at least three names for your company to the free zone authority, and they will approve the ones meeting the regulations set by the DED.
Application Submission
Complete and submit the application form along with required documents such as passport copies and business plan.
Approval and Licensing
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive your business license.
Lease Agreement
Sign a lease agreement for your office space, warehouse, or land as per your business needs. There are various facilities available in the UAQ Free Zone.
Visa Processing
Apply for residence visas for yourself and your employees through UAQ FTZ.
Start Operations
Begin your business operations in UAQ FTZ with the support of their comprehensive facilities and services.
Documentation
Sign the final documents in front of the officials from the selected free zone.
Start Your Operations
Once all formalities are completed, you can commence your business activities.
How Solutions FZCO Can Help You!
Solutions FZCO specializes in business setup services, offering end-to-end solutions for establishing your company in UAQ FTZ.
Our team will assist you with:
- Business activity selection and license procurement
- Application Submission
- Office, land, or warehouse leasing
- Navigating legal and administrative processes
- Visa application and processing
- Post-registration business support
Leverage our local contacts in the UAQ to expedite your business license.
Partner with Solutions FZCO for a seamless and efficient business setup experience in Umm Al Quwain Free Zone, allowing you to focus on growing your business.
