Pick the right free zone for your activity, visa plan, and banking path — not the one a corporate service agent is paid the most commission to sell you. Formation, Corporate Tax, VAT, and the hardest part (banking) all on autopilot.
IFZA (Dubai) is the most common for small-team digital businesses: competitive pricing and 1–3 visa packages. RAK ICC (Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre) is offshore and better for holding companies or founders who don't need a visa. Meydan Free Zone (Dubai) is premium, investor-visa-friendly, and best for founders wanting a Dubai office presence. The Formation Agent recommends based on your residency goals, activities, and team size.
As of June 2023, the UAE has a federal Corporate Tax of 9% on profits above AED 375,000. Free zone companies can qualify for 0% on 'Qualifying Income' if they meet specific substance and transfer-pricing requirements. FormBridge's Tax Agent drafts your UAE Corporate Tax return and flags the Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) criteria; a partner UAE tax advisor signs and files.
Most free zone packages include 0–3 residence visa quotas. Obtaining the visa requires a medical test, Emirates ID registration, and a short visit to the UAE. FormBridge coordinates with the free zone authority; the physical visit is on you.
UAE VAT is 5% and registration is mandatory once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 annually. Voluntary registration is available above AED 187,500. FormBridge's Compliance Agent calendars VAT return windows and the Tax Agent drafts each return.
UAE bank accounts for free zone companies are notoriously harder to secure than the incorporation itself. FormBridge's Banking Agent prepares your application for the banks most likely to approve your specific profile (WIO, Mashreq NEO, Emirates NBD) and drafts your source-of-funds narrative to match KYC expectations. Approval is not guaranteed — but preparation dramatically improves odds.
The right free zone, the right bank — picked by an agent with no side deals.