Established in 2007, Fujairah Creative City Free Zone has rapidly become a go-to destination for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and SMEs across the UAE. Originally designed as a cost-effective alternative to Dubai Media City, it stands out for its low setup costs, simplified documentation, and virtual office options. Located just 1.5 hours from Dubai, it offers a strategic location with access to global markets. The zone caters to media, consulting, design, and other creative industries, making it ideal for innovative professionals. Fujairah Creative City Free Zone business setup is known for its flexibility, affordability, and ease of incorporation. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started.
Benefits of Fujairah Creative City Free Zone Company Formation
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone (FCC) is so beneficial for businesses that it is widely recognized as a friendly destination for those starting a company in the UAE. And here’s what it offers:
Easy and Fast Incorporation
At FCC, setting up a company is easy as very little documentation is required. There are no rules for share capital, no requirement to reveal ownership and no need for annual bookkeeping or audits. Because the process is clear and quick, it’s perfect for startups and those starting a business for the first time.
No Physical Office Requirement
Entrepreneurs looking to establish a business do not need to search for office space, they can establish business quickly and save money because FCC offers freelancer packages and virtual offices.
Multiple Visa Allocation
There is no need for the office to obtain up to 15 visas through the free zone. Because of its flexible desk area, this space is great for small firms or teams working remotely.
100% Foreign Ownership
A sponsor or local partner is not required to have complete control of the business. It provides businesses with both the ability to decide independently and to operate flexibly.
Complete Capital and Profit repatriation
Fujairah Creative City free zone company setup provides complete repatriation of capital and profits, enabling financial security and ease in money transfer globally.
Zero Tax Environment
Enjoy more profit because there is no compulsion to pay personal income tax, corporation tax or import/export duties.
Wide Range of Business Activities
Since there are over 1,500 activities allowed in sectors such as media, consulting, IT, education and marketing, a single license can combine a number of these activities
Strategic Location and Global Access
With an east coast location in the UAE, FCC allows business to take advantage of both air and sea routes to reach the Indian Ocean and join the wider world of trade.
Additional Business support services
The FCC provides value-added services such as driving license assistance, connection to a public relations officer (PRO), Chamber of Commerce perks, and the opening of a company bank account.
Skilled Workforce and Networking
The free zone supports a creative group of individuals , investors and industry experts, giving them access to each other and the possibility to work together.
Available License Types for Company Formation in Fujairah Creative City
Before setting up your business, it’s essential to understand the types of licenses available to ensure compliance and alignment with your business activity. Here are the major types of licenses available in Fujairah Free Zone, UAE:
Media-Related Licenses
Fujairah Creative City has been designed mainly to assist media and creative companies. These licenses are created for people working in artistic fields as well as companies in the media hub. Listed among the covered activities are:
- Producing TV shows and movies
- Marketing companies use advertising and public relations
- Magazines, newspapers, digital articles
- Photography and videography are offered
- Event management, broadcast and music production
Ideal for:Media agencies, freelance producers, content creators, broadcasters and marketing firms.
E-Commerce Licenses
With many internet-based businesses thriving, an e-commerce license enables stores without physical locations to operate. Listed among the covered activities are:
- Sales of products through online channels, either on a large scale or retail basis
- Selling with drop-shipping
- Managing a digital marketing platform
- E-commerce consulting and logistics organization
- Affiliation of marketing programs and online service sites
Ideal for:Startups, e-shops, marketers and firms trading across borders in mind.
Design and Technology License
These licenses have been developed for those who work in the areas of digital design, creative tech and software solutions. Covered Activities Include:
- Graphic design, branding and creating a corporate identity
- Web design and web development
- Animation and game development
- Services in UI/UX design
- Software and app development
- Delivering IT consultancy through digital transformation.
Ideal for:Designers, developers, creative studios, SaaS providers and tech consultants.
Trading Licenses
With this license, businesses are allowed to import, export and trade goods inside the UAE and in other countries. Covered Activities Include:
- Trading in items that can be held in one’s hand
- Delivering and organizing goods
- Moving general goods into or out of the country
- There are wholesale and retail operations in manufacturing.
- General trading a range of products.
Ideal for: Trading companies, distributors, wholesalers and import-export businesses.
Industrial Licenses
Although most of FCC’s work is with companies in service and media fields, it also issues industrial licenses for light manufacturing and production-related activities. Covered activities include:
- Creating items that are ready for sale
- Building products and their packaging
- Working with unfinished or partially completed materials
- Smaller scale industrial operations
Ideal for:Light manufacturers, packaging companies and production units who want reasonably priced setup solutions.
Service Licenses
It provides the greatest flexibility within FCC, making it perfect for diverse consultancy service providers. Covered activities include:
- Advising businesses in various management aspects
- Services and products in accounting and finance
- The company offers HR, legal and real estate advisory services.
- Schools and courses for increased learning
- Marketing and digital strategy consulting
Ideal for:Consultants, trainers, service professionals and small companies in the service.
All licenses in Fujairah Creative City Free Zone are designed to accommodate flexible, adaptable, and cost-effective business models. Whether you are an individual or a rising business manager, a license will satisfy your demands.
Business Entity Types in Fujairah Creative City Free Zone
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone has structures designed for sole business owners, co-ventures and corporate branches that want to operate in the free zone. features of each structure.
Free Zone Establishment (FZE) – Single Owner
Personal entrepreneurs can set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) which gives total ownership and does not need a local sponsor. Being valid for up to 3 years and operating virtually, it is less costly for both freelancers and startups.
Free Zone Company (FZCO) – Multiple Owners
The structure is designed for partnerships and can handle two or more shareholders. It’s especially well-suited for collaboration because it’s customizable, management is simple, and the license term can range from one to three years.
Freelance Company
Freelance company is designed specifically for freelancers working in media, IT, design, and consulting. One can incorporate four visas, operate without an office, and obtain a valid, low-cost solution.
Baby Business Package
Small teams appreciate this plan, which covers up to six visas and allows selection of three business activities. This approach is best suited for new firms that require a simple structure for expansion.
Genius Package
This model is designed for growing SMEs and permits up to 15 visas as well as a broad range of activity options. It is ideal for companies that require many employees but need to keep costs down.
Branch Office
Helps foreign and already operating local businesses establish branches registered in Fujairah. A branch of the parent company shares the parent’s name which guarantees brand identity and allows for widespread coverage.
Documents Required for Company Formation in FCC Free Zone
Here are the list of documents required for submission during the company formation process in the FCC Freezone:
For Individual Shareholders
- A clear, colored copy of the shareholder’s passport, valid for at least six months.
- Two recent color photos with a white background.
- If the shareholder is a UAE resident, a copy of their Emirates ID is required.
- For UAE residents, a copy of the residency visa; for non-residents, a copy of the entry stamp.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current employer may be necessary.
- A brief overview of the intended business activities.
- Recent utility bills or bank statements as evidence of residential address.
- A letter from the individual’s bank, confirming the account status.
For Corporate Shareholders
- A copy of the parent company’s incorporation certificate.
- A valid copy of the parent company’s trade license.
- Copies of the parent company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA & AOA)
- A resolution from the parent company’s board approving the establishment of a new entity in Fujairah Creative City.
- Power of Attorney(POA) is required if someone is appointed to act on behalf of the parent company
- Colored copies of passports of the parent company’s shareholders.
- If applicable, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the licensing authority of the parent company.
For Branch Offices
- Parent Company Documents including the trade license, MOA, and AOA.
- Approving the establishment of the branch in Fujairah Creative City.
- Power of Attorney (POA) if an individual is appointed to manage the branch.
- Certificate of Good Standing confirming the parent company’s legal compliance and active status.
- Colored copies of passports of the parent company’s shareholders.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the parent company’s licensing authority, if required.
Additional Documents
- Completed Application Form
- Lease Agreement
- Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Declaration
- Know Your Customer (KYC) forms for each shareholder and director.
- Business Plan
Steps to Set Up a Company in Fujairah Creative City Free Zone
Below are the major steps involved in the Fujairah Creative City free zone business setup in UAE:
Choose Your Business Activity and License Type
Identify the specific line of work carried out by the organization. Fujairah Creative City issues licenses to businesses in media, e-commerce, consultancy, trading and design. Selecting the proper license guarantees meeting the rules and makes registration simple.
Decide on the Legal Structure
Select the business structure that fits your needs the most.
- FZE for only one owner
- FZC can have more than one owner
- Or register as a branch of a local or foreign company. It settles who can be held responsible and who is the owner.
Prepare and Submit Required documents
Send the important documents like passport copy, photos and NOC (if on a UAE visa). When setting up a company, all company documents, board resolutions and evidence of being in good standing is required. Submit the application and the setup fees after everything is completed.
Receive Your Business License and Company Documents
The license, the Certificate of Incorporation, MoA and lease agreement (if available) is obtained once the application is approved. After finishing these paperwork, company is officially allowed to conduct business legally.
Obtain an Establishment Card
When Establishment Card is obtained, it is connected to the UAE’s visa system by immigration. It allows to sponsor visas for individual and workers and it is needed it for residency application.
Apply for the UAE Entry Permit and Visa
When travelling outside of the UAE, be sure to ask for entry authorization before entering. As soon as one enters, the following step is to have a medical examination, provide fingerprints (biometrics), and submit the necessary paperwork for visa processing. To change your visa status in the UAE, go to the necessary authorities.
Complete Emirates ID registration
Apply for Emirates ID once the visa is received. ID is required to open a bank account, execute a contract, utilize utilities, and other related activities.
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Opt for opening a business account after getting license and Emirates ID at a UAE bank. Account approval at a bank can take a number of days to several weeks and you may need to complete additional checks beforehand.
Cost of Business Setup in Fujairah Creative City Free Zone
Fujairah Creative City’s business setup costs are tailored to freelancers, entrepreneurs, and SMEs looking to establish their own businesses. The fees for forming a company vary depending on the type of business, the number of shareholders, visa requirements, and the size of the office.
Freelancer Company
- Cost:Approximately AED 10,000* – AED 13,500*
- Includes:Trade license, establishment card, flexi-desk, and e-channel registration for 1 year.
- Visa Allocation:Up to 1 visa included; additional visas available at extra cost.
Baby Business Package
- Cost:Approximately AED 12,500* – AED 13,500*
- Includes:Trade license, establishment card, flexi-desk, and e-channel registration for 1 year.
- Visa Allocation:Up to 6 visas included; additional visas available at extra cost.
Commercial License – Single Owner (FZE)
- Cost: Approximately AED 14,000* – AED 17,000*
- Includes:Trade license, establishment card, and e-channel registration for 1 year.
- Visa Allocation:No visa included; visas can be added separately.
Commercial License – Multiple Owners (FZCO)
- Cost:Approximately AED 17,000* – AED 21,000*
- Includes:Trade license, establishment card, and e-channel registration for 1 year.
- Visa Allocation:No visa included; visas can be added separately.
Additional Costs
- Visa Processing:Approximately AED 3,650* – AED 4,950* per visa
- Medical Test: Approximately AED 300* – AED 755*
- Emirates ID:Approximately AED 370* – AED 390*
- E-Channel Registration: Approximately AED 2,225* – AED 5,000* (refundable deposit)
- Additional Business Activity: Approximately AED 5,000*
Conclusion
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone business setup is a great idea for entrepreneurs to start affordable and simple company setups in the UAE. Since it has flexible ways to be licensed, require very little paperwork and enables 100% ownership along with getting multiple visas, it is wonderful for freelancers, startups and expanding companies. Due to its great position and low expense to run, it’s a practical place for business to grow. Whatever the industry- media, e-commerce or services- Fujairah Creative City helps business succeed with its supportive environment.
Thinking of setting up your business in Fujairah Creative City Free Zone? Xpert Advisory has you covered. Our expert business setup services simplify company formation and licensing for a smooth, hassle-free experience. Let our business setup consultants handle the complex paperwork and legalities. Get in touch today!
FAQs
What is the Fujairah Creative City Business Setup Process?
The Fujairah Creative City business setup process is straightforward and streamlined. It typically involves choosing your business activity, selecting the right license type, submitting the required documents, and paying the applicable fees. The process can often be completed remotely.
What are the Advantages of a Fujairah Creative City Free Zone Company?
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone company offers several advantages, including 100% foreign ownership, no personal or corporate income tax, and full repatriation of profits. It also provides flexible license packages, minimal setup costs, and no requirement for physical office space.
What is the Fujairah Creative City License Cost?
The average cost for setting up a business in Fujairah Creative City Free Zone ranges from AED 11,750 to AED 19,000, excluding additional fees like visa processing, medical tests, and Emirates ID. License renewal costs are not included.
