Dubai’s free zones offer a strategic advantage for businesses with benefits like full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup processes. Spread across various sectors, these zones are designed to attract international investors and support industry-specific growth. This guide highlights the key free zones in Dubai, their locations, and the business activities they cater to.
Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ)
Located next to Dubai International Airport, DAFZ offers seamless logistics and customs services for global trade businesses. It caters to industries like aviation, electronics, and logistics. Companies benefit from full foreign ownership and access to international markets.
Website: https://www.dafz.ae/en/
Dubai Commer City (DCC)
Dubai Commer City is the region’s first free zone dedicated to e-commerce and digital trade. It provides infrastructure for logistics, cloud services, and tech startups. The zone supports businesses with smart warehouses and integrated digital platforms.
Website: https://www.dubaicommercity.ae/
Dubai Design District (D3)
D3 is a creative hub tailored for design, fashion, and luxury industries. It attracts global and regional designers, artists, and entrepreneurs. The district also hosts major events like Dubai Design Week, strengthening its cultural and business presence.
Website: https://dubaidesigndistrict.com/
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC)
DHCC is a health-focused free zone offering world-class medical facilities and wellness centers. It brings together hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, and pharmaceutical companies. The zone supports healthcare innovation and medical tourism.
Website: https://dhcc.ae/
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)
DIAC is home to regional campuses of international universities and educational institutions. It provides a focused environment for higher education and research. The zone supports academic growth with student housing and innovation centers.
Website: https://diacedu.ae/
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
DIFC is Dubai’s leading financial hub, housing global banks, investment firms, and legal institutions. It operates under an independent regulatory framework based on English common law. DIFC also features luxury offices, hotels, and fine dining options.
Website: https://www.difc.com/
Dubai Internet City (DIC)
DIC is the Middle East’s largest tech hub, hosting global names like Microsoft and Oracle. It supports startups, SMEs, and multinationals in IT, software, and digital innovation. The zone offers modern infrastructure and frequent networking events.
Website: https://dic.ae/
Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)
DKP is dedicated to human resource management, training institutes, and educational support services. It creates a collaborative space for learning and development professionals. The zone is ideal for businesses focusing on knowledge transfer and training.
Website: https://dkp.ae/
Dubai Maritime City
This free zone is designed for maritime businesses including shipbuilding, repair, and marine services. Strategically located between Port Rashid and Drydocks World, it supports Dubai’s maritime trade ambitions. The city also provides residential and commercial space for industry professionals.
Website: https://dubaimaritimecity.com/
Dubai Media City (DMC)
DMC is the region’s hub for media, publishing, advertising, and broadcasting. It houses global networks like CNN and BBC. The zone offers licensing options for freelancers, startups, and international media giants.
Website: https://dmc.ae/
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
DMCC is the world’s leading free zone for trade in commodities like gold, tea, diamonds, and coffee. Located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, it offers state-of-the-art offices and industry-specific infrastructure. DMCC also hosts industry events and networking platforms.
Website: https://dmcc.ae/
Dubai Outsource City (DOC)
DOC is built for businesses in outsourcing, BPO, IT support, and call center operations. It provides companies with scalable infrastructure and access to skilled talent. The zone encourages business continuity and operational efficiency.
Website: https://dubaioutsourcecity.ae/
Dubai Production City (DPC)
DPC caters to media production, publishing, and printing businesses. It offers specialized infrastructure like sound stages and production suites. The community supports collaboration among content creators and publishers.
Website: https://dpc.ae/
Dubai Science Park (DSP)
DSP is a hub for scientific research, healthcare innovation, and biotechnology. It offers laboratory spaces, R&D facilities, and access to industry partnerships. The park supports businesses working in pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and life sciences.
Website: https://dsp.ae/
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
DSO is a smart city designed for technology companies, offering a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial space. It supports tech startups, R&D centers, and large enterprises. The zone features integrated smart systems and innovation labs.
Website: https://www.dso.ae/
Dubai South
Dubai South is a large-scale development centered around Al Maktoum International Airport. It includes logistics, aviation, commercial, and residential zones. The area is positioned to be a key logistics hub connecting global trade routes.
Website: https://www.dubaisouth.ae/en
Dubai Studio City (DSC)
DSC provides infrastructure for film, TV, music, and video production. It includes sound stages, editing suites, and office space for media companies. The zone is a base for regional and international production houses.
Website: https://dubaistudiocity.ae/
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
DWTC Free Zone supports global trade, exhibitions, and conferences. It offers premium commercial space within a strategic business district. The location is ideal for companies participating in Dubai’s major trade shows and events.
Website: https://www.dwtc.com/en/
Expo City Dubai Free Zone
Built on the legacy of Expo 2020, Expo City is a hub for sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration. It hosts offices, residential communities, and cultural attractions. The city is positioned to drive future-focused industries and events.
Website: https://www.expocitydubai.com/en/free-zone/
International Humanitarian City
This is the world’s largest humanitarian logistics hub, supporting relief efforts and disaster response. It hosts UN agencies, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations. The zone enables fast deployment of aid and supplies worldwide.
Website: https://dubaihumanitarian.ae/
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
JAFZA is one of Dubai’s oldest and largest free zones, located near Jebel Ali Port. It serves logistics, manufacturing, automotive, and petrochemical industries. The zone connects businesses to global shipping and supply chains.
Website: https://www.jafza.ae/
Meydan Free Zone (MFZ)
MFZ offers flexible office solutions for entrepreneurs and SMEs within the Meydan area. It is ideal for e-commerce, consultancy, and digital businesses. The free zone provides quick setup processes and access to business amenities.
Website: https://www.meydanfz.ae/
