Jurisdiction
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Jurisdictions in the UAE
The choice between mainland and free zone jurisdiction will depend on a number of factors, including the type of business you are starting, the level of control you want to maintain over your company, and your budget.
Mainland
Mainland jurisdiction refers to any area within the UAE that is not a designated free zone. Companies that are established in the mainland are subject to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, which sets out the legal framework for doing business in the country.
If you want to conduct business in the UAE outside of a free zone, you will need to establish your company in the mainland. This may be a good option if you want to target the local market, but you will be subject to more regulations and may need to partner with a local sponsor to set up your company.
Freezone
Free zones are specific areas within the UAE that are designated for specific industries, such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, and Dubai International Financial Centre. Companies that are established in free zones are subject to their own regulatory frameworks.
If you want to take advantage of the benefits offered by free zones, such as 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions, you will need to establish your company in one of these areas. This may be a good option if you want to conduct business internationally or if you are in a sector that is specific to a particular free zone.