Jurisdiction guide
United Arab Emirates
Free zone and mainland structures, with banking and residency tied to real operations.
Corporate structures
Free zone companies and mainland companies, each with different licensing scope, office and trading rules.
Banking and payments
Account approval depends on ownership, activity and substance. A licence alone does not secure an account.
Tax and compliance
Federal corporate tax registration and filing, licence renewals, and accounting records. Free zone tax benefits apply only to qualifying income.
Requirements change. Confirm current rules with a licensed adviser in United Arab Emirates. See also Company Incorporation services.
This content is educational and is not legal, tax, financial, investment or immigration advice. ASBS Global is an Authorised Channel Partner of Meydan Free Zone and Innovation City RAK, and may receive compensation from providers it introduces. Where a commercial relationship applies it is disclosed in our Affiliate Disclosure. Introductions do not guarantee account opening, approval, licensing or tax treatment. Full regulatory disclaimer.