Activity amendments are permitted by most free zone authorities for an additional fee, typically ranging from AED 1,000 to AED 2,500 per activity. Some changes may require updated documentation or additional approvals depending on the nature of the new activity. 

Connect Group advises on the correct activity codes before the initial filing to avoid the cost and delay of post-licence amendments, which is one of the most common and most avoidable expenses in free zone setup.

Connect Group evaluates four things before recommending any zone.

• Your activity and whether the zone’s list covers it in full
• Your visa requirements against the zone’s allocation policy
• Your budget relative to the zone’s true first-year cost, including renewals
• Your banking expectations against the zone’s known KYC profile with UAE banks

Most clients who arrive having already chosen a zone need it reconsidered. Connect Group removes that risk before anything is filed.

Connect Group has been setting up businesses in the UAE since 2016 and has completed over 15,000 company formations across mainland, free zone, and offshore structures. That volume spans every major free zone authority and covers a wide range of activity types, legal structures, and shareholder profiles.

It is the reason Connect Group can identify zone-specific risks, banking compatibility issues and activity mismatches before they become problems for the client.

Yes, for most zones. Licence application, name reservation, document submission and incorporation can all be completed remotely with notarised documents.

Two steps that require physical presence in the UAE:

• Visa medical tests
• Emirates ID biometrics if applying for residency

Connect Group confirms which steps require your presence before any travel is planned.

Yes. FTA registration is mandatory for every free zone entity regardless of revenue or profitability. The standard rate is 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000 annually.

Free zone companies that qualify as a Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) under Cabinet Decision No. 100 of 2023 retain a 0% rate on qualifying income. QFZP conditions include:

• Maintaining adequate UAE substance
• Preparing audited financial statements
• Keeping non-qualifying revenue below AED 5 million or 5% of total revenue

Connect Group coordinates FTA registration as part of the post-licence process.

Standard documents required for most free zones:

• Valid passport copy
• Proof of residential address
• Passport-sized photographs
• Completed application form

Certain zones and shareholder profiles also require a business plan, CV or source of funds declaration. Connect Group provides a precise checklist for your specific zone at the start of the engagement.