We all know that Dubai is a global business hub that has attracted many investors and first-time business founders. To cater to such a vast circle of business, Dubai has several free zones that are designed to attract foreign investment, promote the economy and business setup in Dubai. Each free zone operates under its regulatory authority and offers various benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and sector-specific infrastructure. But how many free zones are in Dubai? Let’s get to the bottom of it.
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Current Number of Free Zones in Dubai
As of August 2025, Dubai has some 30 operational free zones. These zones specialise across various industry sectors, including trading, logistics, finance, media, technology, healthcare, education, and manufacturing, and provide a wholesome solution to professionals looking for freezone business setup.
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| Free Zone | Industry Focus | Key Features |
| Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) | Logistics, Manufacturing, Trading | Largest free zone, hosts 10,000+ companies, contributes 32% to Dubai’s FDI, near Jebel Ali Port. |
| Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) | Commodities (Gold, Diamonds, Tea, etc.) | Largest in UAE, 7,330+ companies, near Dubai International Airport, 94% retention rate. |
| Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) | Financial Services, Legal Services | Global financial hub, 2,500+ businesses, contributes 12% to Dubai’s GDP, common law framework. |
| Dubai Internet City (DIC) | Technology, IT, Innovation | Hosts tech giants like Microsoft, Google, supports startups, part of TECOM Group. |
| Dubai Media City (DMC) | Media, Advertising, Broadcasting | Supports media companies, offers facilities for publishing, broadcasting, part of TECOM Group. |
| Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) | High-Tech, Innovation, Semiconductors | Offers affordable setup, residential-commercial mix, hosts IFZA. |
| Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) | Logistics, Aviation, Trading | Near Dubai International Airport, 2,700+ companies, innovative warehouse technology. |
| Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) | Healthcare, Medical Education, Wellness | Hosts hospitals, clinics, supports medical tourism, 1,600+ companies. |
| Dubai Knowledge Park | Education, Creative Industries | Focuses on learning, creative businesses, offers galleries, workshops. |
| Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) | Higher Education | Hosts 27+ international universities, 500+ academic programs, e-learning focus. |
| Dubai Studio City | Film, TV, Music Production | Supports media production, offers facilities for cinema and broadcasting. |
| Dubai Production City | Printing, Publishing, Packaging | Serves media production, offers publishing and packaging facilities. |
| Dubai Outsource City | Outsourcing (Logistics, Warehousing, Services) | Connects companies with external service providers, supports outsourcing industries. |
| Dubai CommerCity | E-Commerce | First e-commerce hub in MEASA region, launched 2021, divided into Business, Logistics, Social clusters. |
| Meydan Free Zone | Commercial, Consulting, Administrative | Supports 1,500+ activities, offers flexible desk spaces, located centrally. |
| Gold and Diamond Park | Jewellery, Gold Trading | Major market for gold and diamonds, located on Sheikh Zayed Road. |
| Dubai Cars and Automotive Zone (DUCAMZ) | Used Car Trading | Largest used car marketplace in UAE, supports automotive businesses. |
| Dubai Expo City | Exhibitions, Events, Tourism | Home to Dubai Expo 2020, offers offices, restaurants, and Dubai Exhibition Centre. |
| Dubai Logistics City | Logistics, Supply Chain | Part of Dubai South, supports logistics near Al Maktoum International Airport. |
| Dubai South (formerly Dubai World Central) | Aviation, Logistics, Smart City | Smart district, covers 145 sq.km, near Al Maktoum Airport, hosts logistics and aviation businesses. |
| Dubai Textile City | Textile Industry | Offers showrooms, storage, located in Ras al Khor, joint venture with TEXMAS. |
| Dubai Wholesale City | Wholesale Trading | Integrated wholesale hub, adjacent to Dubai South, supports trading businesses. |
| Energy and Environment Park | Energy, Environment, Sustainability | Dedicated to sustainable industries, part of Dubai’s green initiatives. |
| International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) | Professional, Commercial Services | Cost-effective, starting at AED 12,900, allows 3 activities per license, in Dubai Silicon Oasis. |
| Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) | Financial Regulation | Regulates financial services within DIFC, ensures compliance. |
| Dubai Maritime City | Maritime, Shipbuilding | Supports marine industries, offers port-related facilities. |
| Dubai Design District (D3) | Design, Fashion, Art | Focuses on creative industries, part of TECOM Group, hosts design and fashion businesses. |
| Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) | Biotechnology, Life Sciences | Supports research, pharmaceuticals, and biotech innovation. |
| Dubai Flower Centre | Floriculture, Horticulture | Specialized for flower trading, supports logistics for perishable goods. |
| DUQE Free Zone | Mixed Industries | Unique offshore location near Dubai Creek, aboard Queen Elizabeth, and cost-effective packages. |
| Dubai Science Park | Science, Research, Pharmaceuticals | Supports scientific research, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries. |
Why Are Free Zones Important?
- Full Foreign Ownership: Investors can own 100% of the business, unlike in mainland companies.
- No Personal or Corporate Income Taxes: Many zones offer complete or significant tax exemptions.
- Customs and Import Benefits: Free trade in goods and simplified logistics.
- Fast Setup: Streamlined licensing and registration processes.
- Sector-Specific Incentives: Tailored to industry requirements, including finance, tech, media, health, and logistics.