Top 5 Cheapest Free Zones in Dubai: A Price Comparison

There are over 20 Free Zones in Dubai, which offer diverse business opportunities to entrepreneurs and investors, along with multiple tax and legal benefits. Entrepreneurs and investors across the World are looking for the cheapest Free Zone for their business setup, so they can easily set up and manage their business in Dubai.

If you are one of these, this article helps you find the cheapest Free Zone in Dubai that meets all your business goals. The following is a complete discussion of the 5 cheapest Free Zones in Dubai, along with the price comparison, which offers the most suitable opportunity for your business setup and managing its operations. 

List of the Cheapest Free Zones in Dubai

The following is the list of the five cheapest Free Zones in Dubai, along with their price comparison table:

1. International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)

International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) offers one of the most cost-effective business setup packages with a basic license starting from just AED 12,900. With the addition of a visa, the cost increases depending on the number of visas and their validity.

The business setup process in IFZA is simple and easily accessible due to minimal document requirements. There are no mandatory legal approvals required for business incorporation, except for a few activities in specific categories. 

Hence, IFZA is the best option for solo entrepreneurs, consultants, and digital businesses that are interested in starting with an affordable minimal cost and expanding later.

2. Meydan Free Zone

Meydan Free Zone comes second in the list of low-cost business setup Free Zones in Dubai. The estimated cost for business setup in Meydan Free Zone starts from AED 12,500 for a no-visa package. 

The easy business setup process and access to shared office facilities make this Free Zone a prominent choice for business setup in Dubai. The Free Zone is best suitable for various business types, especially e-commerce businesses, digital service providers, and trading firms.

Furthermore, Meydan Free Zone allows businesses to add up to three activities under the cost of one license, which increases its importance for entrepreneurs who are interested in working in multiple fields.

3. Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone (DSO)

Dubai Silicon Oasis is the third-cheapest Free Zone in Dubai. The license cost for business setup in the DSO Free Zone starts from AED 12,900. This Free Zone is popular for supporting innovation-driven enterprises and tech-based startups. 

The Free Zone is considered a home to several R&D centers and companies operating in software development, artificial intelligence, and electronics. The Free Zone provides different types of licenses, such as service, trade, and industrial licenses. 

In this Free Zone, business owners can choose among the options to lease office spaces in business towers or shared facilities. They can choose the best depending on their budget. Furthermore, DSO is ideal for startups that require a strong digital infrastructure and a forward-thinking business environment.

4. Dubai South Free Zone

Dubai South Free Zone is also one of the cheapest Free Zones in Dubai, which offers a cost-friendly business setup. The cost of a trade license in this Free Zone starts from AED 13,000. This Free Zone is best for logistics, aviation, and transport-related businesses. 

There are flexible licensing options available in this Free Zone for entrepreneurs and investors. Dubai South Free Zone provides high-quality shared offices and flexi-desks at reasonable prices. The Free Zone also offers warehousing facilities, which makes it suitable for businesses that rely on product storage or distribution. 

This Free Zone is also suitable for businesses that are involved in logistics, e-commerce, and trade. Hence, entrepreneurs who are interested in setting up their business at an affordable cost while having a prime location must choose Dubai South Free Zone.

5. Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)

Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA) is the last in the list of the cheapest Free Zones in Dubai. It is one of the oldest and most developed Free Zones in Dubai. The estimated cost for business setup in JAFZA Free Zone is AED 13,500 for a no-visa package. 

The Free Zone is located near Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum Airport. Owing to this strategic location, JAFZA Free Zone is considered the best for businesses that are involved in activities of global trade. In addition to its strategic location, the Free Zone offers warehouses, large office spaces, and industrial units.

JAFZA Free Zone offers license types that include industrial, trading, and service licenses. JAFZA Free Zone also supports logistics businesses in Dubai. Despite its reputation as a large-scale zone, its basic packages are affordable, especially for businesses that need international access..

Comparison Table: Cheapest Free Zones in Dubai (2025)

The following is the comparison table for the cheapest Free Zone in Dubai. The table compares the cost of the starting license fee, office options, and the most suitable business types for each Free Zone as given below: 

You should hire a business setup professional to assist with establishing your company in the most cost-effective Free Zones in Dubai, based on your specific business requirements and activities. A professional can guide you through a simple and transparent process, providing a clear estimate for the incorporation.

They will handle all aspects of the setup, including license applications, visa processing, bank account opening, and office arrangements. This approach ensures a smooth experience, fosters long-term support, and guarantees compliance with Dubai’s regulations.