UAQ FTZ: company setup
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone
Updated on 29 October 2026 · Published under the responsibility of Jason Pivron, director · Who we are
Why this zone
A low-cost alternative to the Dubai zones, with a flexi-desk included from entry level, which opens the visa quota earlier than some competitors.
What to watch for
An emirate little known to banks and international counterparties. Saving a few thousand dirhams can cost you an account refusal.
Fee breakdown
All-inclusive package, official fees included: registration, first-year licence, establishment card and the minimum office the zone requires; visas are not included. Then €2,290 a year to renew the licence and the minimum office.
Suited activities
- Small-scale trading
- Services
- Consulting
- Freelance activity
Banking
Emerging.
Setting up in UAQ FTZ: the steps
- Scoping and choice of zone
- Name reservation and initial approval
- Licence issue
- Visa and identity
- Tax and bank account
Steps from our catalogue for the United Arab Emirates, recorded on 21 September 2026. Details and documents to provide →
UAQ FTZ: what is specific to it
- The zone falls under the Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone authority, one of the smallest emirates. Source: uaqftz.com (to be checked)
Where these figures come from
- Emirate (Umm Al Quwain): uaqftz.com
- Office, visas and setup time: our catalogue, recorded on 21 September 2026; to be checked with the zone.
- Banking: our assessment, not an authority's data.
UAQ FTZ: frequently asked questions
How much does a UAQ FTZ licence cost?
From €2,190. All-inclusive package, official fees included: registration, first-year licence, establishment card and the minimum office the zone requires; visas are not included. Then €2,290 a year to renew the licence and the minimum office.
How long does company setup in UAQ FTZ take?
1 to 2 weeks (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
Which emirate is UAQ FTZ in?
Umm Al Quwain — Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone.
What office does a UAQ FTZ company need?
Flexi-desk (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
How many visas with a UAQ FTZ company?
Depends on the package (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
Can a UAQ FTZ company open a bank account?
Emerging. No account can be guaranteed.
Which activities are allowed in UAQ FTZ?
Small-scale trading · Services · Consulting · Freelance activity.
What should I watch out for in UAQ FTZ?
An emirate little known to banks and international counterparties. Saving a few thousand dirhams can cost you an account refusal.