Set Up a Company in Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone
Budget-friendly free zone supporting small businesses and startups. Multiple activities under one licence.
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone
UAQ FTZ Authority
- Umm Al Quwain, Umm Al Quwain
- Regulated by UAQ FTZ Authority
- Established 1988
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose UAQ FTZ?
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ) is dedicated to supporting small businesses and startups with affordable packages. The zone allows up to 3 activities from different categories or 10 from the same category under one licence, offering flexibility for growing businesses.
Multi-Activity Licence
Up to 3 activities from different categories or 10 from same category.
Micro-Business Friendly
Designed for startups and small businesses.
Affordable Pricing
Budget-friendly packages from AED 6,500.
Freelancer Permits
Individual freelancer licences available.
Remote Setup
Complete registration without visiting.
Fast Processing
Licences issued in 2-5 working days.
Important: What UAQ FTZ companies cannot do
- Located in Umm Al Quwain — smallest emirate
- Limited business ecosystem
- Less prestigious address
- Some banks may have preferences for other emirates
UAQ FTZ Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 6,500+ |Annual renewal: From AED 4,225. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in UAQ FTZ
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from UAQ FTZ's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
UAQ FTZ reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 2 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 2-5 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through UAQ FTZ
Visa Quota
With a UAQ FTZ licence you can sponsor up to 10 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 1 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through UAQ FTZ costs approximately AED 3,000 – 4,500 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.