Setting up a company in a Dubai freezone comes with many benefits — 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified setup procedures. But for most entrepreneurs, one of the biggest advantages is the ability to obtain a Dubai residence visa through their freezone company.
A freezone visa allows business owners, employees, and their families to live and work in Dubai legally. However, before applying, it’s important to understand the costs, eligibility, and requirements involved.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about Dubai freezone visa costs and requirements to help you plan your business setup smoothly.
What is a Dubai Freezone Visa?
A freezone visa is a residence visa issued to business owners, employees, or dependents under the sponsorship of a Dubai freezone authority. The number of visas you can apply for depends on your chosen freezone and office space package (e.g., flexi-desk, shared office, or dedicated office).
Types of Freezone Visas:
- Investor/Partner Visa – For company owners or shareholders.
- Employment Visa – For staff hired under the freezone company.
- Dependent Visa – For family members (spouse, children, parents).
Dubai Freezone Visa Cost
The cost of a Dubai freezone visa varies depending on the freezone authority, the type of visa, and whether the applicant is inside or outside the UAE at the time of application. On average, here’s what you can expect:
| Visa Type | Approximate Cost (AED) | Validity | Notes |
| Investor/Partner | 3,500 – 5,000 | 2 years | For business owners/shareholders |
| Employment | 4,000 – 7,000 | 2 years | For company staff |
| Dependent (Family) | 3,000 – 5,000 | 2 years | For spouse, children, parents |
Additional Costs:
- Medical Test & Emirates ID: AED 1,000 – 1,500
- Change of Status (if inside UAE): AED 1,000 – 1,500
- Visa Renewal (every 2 years): Similar to initial cost
Example: If you’re applying for an investor visa from outside the UAE, the total cost could be around AED 4,500 – AED 5,500 including all fees.
Key Requirements for a Dubai Freezone Visa
To apply for a freezone visa, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility and documentation requirements.
- General Requirements:
- A valid business license from the freezone authority.
- A flexi-desk or office lease agreement (depending on visa quota).
- Company establishment card issued by the freezone.
- Documents Needed:
For the applicant:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months).
- Passport-size photos (with white background).
- Entry permit (if applying from outside the UAE).
- Current visa or cancellation paper (if inside UAE).
For dependents:
- Passport copies of family members.
- Marriage certificate (attested for spouse visa).
- Birth certificates (attested for children’s visas).
- Tenancy contract and salary certificate (for family sponsorship).
- Medical & Emirates ID:
All applicants must undergo a medical test (blood test + chest X-ray) and apply for an Emirates ID.
Freezone Visa Quotas
The number of visas you can obtain depends on the size of your office or workspace:
- Flexi-Desk Package – Usually allows 1–3 visas.
- Shared Office – 3–5 visas.
- Dedicated Office/Warehouse – Can sponsor more visas (5+).
Each freezone has its own visa quota policies, so it’s important to check with your chosen freezone before finalizing.
Processing Time for Freezone Visas
The process is generally fast and straightforward. On average:
- Entry Permit – 3 to 5 working days.
- Change of Status – 3 to 5 working days (if inside UAE).
- Medical Test & Emirates ID – 3 to 5 working days.
- Visa Stamping – 7 to 10 working days.
Total Time: Around 2 to 3 weeks from application to visa stamping.
Benefits of a Dubai Freezone Visa
- Residency in Dubai – Live, work, and sponsor your family.
- Bank Account Opening – Essential for business operations.
- Ease of Travel – Multiple-entry visa valid for 2 years.
- Access to Services – Utilities, leasing, healthcare, and education.
- Stability – Long-term residency as long as company license is renewed.
Common Questions About Freezone Visas
- Can I sponsor my family with a freezone visa?
Yes, once you have your investor or employment visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents (subject to minimum income requirements). - Do freezone visas require a local sponsor?
No, freezone visas are issued directly under the authority of the freezone. - Can I work outside the freezone with a freezone visa?
Your business activities are restricted to the freezone unless you have a mainland partner or distributor. However, you can still do international business freely. - What happens if I don’t renew my visa?
Your visa becomes invalid, and you may face penalties for overstaying. Always renew your visa along with your business license.
Final Thoughts
A Dubai freezone visa is an essential part of setting up a company, offering residency rights, banking access, and the ability to hire staff. Costs typically range between AED 3,500 – AED 7,000 per visa, depending on type and freezone.
Before applying, consider your visa requirements carefully — including how many employees you plan to sponsor, whether you’ll need family visas, and your budget for office space. By planning ahead and choosing the right freezone package, you can secure your visa smoothly and focus on growing your business in Dubai.
