Recta Advocates has partnered with IFZA, one of Dubai's leading free zones, so clients can establish a UAE free zone company entirely through us, without visiting the UAE or handling the process themselves.
Recta Advocates is pleased to announce its partnership with the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA), one of the most widely used free zones for international businesses in Dubai. Through this partnership, clients can establish a UAE free zone company entirely through us, without travelling to the UAE and without dealing with the free zone themselves.
Why a UAE free zone company
The UAE is a natural base for businesses expanding from Egypt and the wider region into the Gulf, and for groups that want a regional holding or trading company. A free zone company offers:
- 100% foreign ownership, with no requirement for a local partner.
- A recognised Dubai business licence, covering a wide range of commercial, professional and consultancy activities.
- Access to the UAE's network of banks, investors and double tax treaties.
- Residence visas for owners and employees, where needed.
- A competitive tax position. Free zone companies are within the UAE corporate tax regime, and those that meet the conditions of a qualifying free zone person can benefit from a 0% rate on qualifying income.
Why IFZA
IFZA is based at Dubai Silicon Oasis and is a popular choice for founders, consultants, trading businesses and holding structures because of its broad range of permitted activities, flexible packages and digital processes. IFZA supports remote company formation: applications are submitted online, formation documents can be signed electronically, and the licence is issued by email.
How the process works with us
You do not need to visit the UAE or deal with the free zone directly. We handle each step for you:
- Planning. We agree the right licence type, business activities, shareholding and visa needs with you.
- Documents. We tell you exactly what is needed and prepare the application, including the beneficial ownership information.
- Application. We submit the application to IFZA through our partnership and follow it through approval.
- Signing. You sign the memorandum and articles of association electronically, wherever you are.
- Licence. The trade licence is issued and sent to you electronically.
- After incorporation. We assist with the next steps, such as corporate tax registration, bank account opening and residence visas if required.
What you will need
For individual shareholders, the basic documents are a passport copy and a digital passport photograph, together with the application form we prepare with you. UAE residents also provide their Emirates ID and visa copy.
Where the shareholder is a company, IFZA will also need its corporate documents, such as the certificate of incorporation, articles of association, a board resolution and details of its managers. These usually need to be attested or notarised, and we recommend starting this early, as it can take two to three weeks.
Points to plan for
- Residence visas. If you or your employees want a UAE residence visa, the visa process involves steps in the UAE, such as the medical test and Emirates ID biometrics. We arrange these so they can be completed in a short visit.
- Bank accounts. UAE banks make their own onboarding decisions and some may require a meeting or a resident signatory. We help you choose a suitable bank and prepare the application.
- Ongoing compliance. A UAE company must renew its licence each year, keep its beneficial ownership information up to date, and meet its corporate tax registration and filing obligations. We can manage these for you.
How we can help
Whether you need a regional base, a holding company above your Egyptian operations or a trading entity for the Gulf, we can set up your IFZA company and keep it compliant. Contact us to discuss the right structure and receive a proposal.
This update reflects the position as at November 2026. Free zone packages, fees and procedures are set by IFZA and may change.
This briefing is for general information only and is not legal advice. For advice on your situation, contact us.