FUJAIRAH FREE ZONE AUTHORITY

At a Glance

Key Features

• Strategic coastal location: Fujairah sits on the Gulf of Oman, outside the Strait of Hormuz. This gives energy and maritime businesses a critical route advantage, particularly for oil storage, bunkering, and shipping.
• Oil & gas hub: Fujairah hosts one of the world's largest oil storage hubs (Fujairah Oil Terminal); the free zone is the natural business address for energy traders and service companies operating in this sector.
• Port access: Direct access to Port of Fujairah — a major bunkering and break-bulk port — enables efficient logistics and maritime operations.
• One of the UAE's oldest free zones: Established in 1987, FFZA has decades of operational history and regulatory experience.
• Industrial facilities: Warehouses, manufacturing plots, and office units available within the free zone.
• 100% foreign ownership: No local sponsor required for free zone entities.

Suitable Activities

FFZA accommodates a range of trading, industrial, and logistics activities, including:

• Oil & gas trading and bunkering
• Ship supply and maritime services
• Petroleum product storage and distribution
• General trading and import/export
• Manufacturing and light industry
• Logistics, freight forwarding, and warehousing
• Construction materials and equipment supply
• Professional and technical consultancy
• Steel, metals, and commodities trading
• Food processing and agri-trade

Company Structures

• FZE (Free Zone Establishment): Single shareholder; 100% foreign ownership; most common for sole investors.
• FZC (Free Zone Company): Two or more shareholders; suitable for joint ventures and partnerships.
• Branch: Branch of an existing UAE or overseas company to operate within FFZA.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

1. Select activity and licence type — trading, service, industrial, or consultancy.
2. Submit application — passport copies, business plan, and activity details submitted to FFZA.
3. Initial approval — typically within 3–7 working days for standard applications.
4. Choose facility — desk space, office, warehouse, or industrial plot based on operational needs.
5. Pay fees — registration, licence, and facility lease fees.
6. Receive trade licence — issued after payment and document clearance.
7. Apply for residence visas — medical, Emirates ID, and visa stamping (10–20 working days).
8. Open UAE bank account — energy and trading companies should plan for extended KYC (often 8–14 weeks).

Required Documents

• Passport copies (all shareholders and managers)
• Passport-size photographs
• Business profile and activity description
• No-objection letter (if currently employed in UAE)
• Corporate shareholder documents: certificate of incorporation, MOA, board resolution, UBO declaration
• Additional regulatory approvals may be required for oil & gas, chemicals, or food-related activities

Indicative Costs

All figures are indicative estimates based on publicly available information. Costs vary by activity and facility type. Always request a current written quote directly from FFZA or a licensed business setup agent.

Renewal

FFZA licences are renewed annually. Facility leases may be multi-year with annual or periodic payment cycles. Ensure licences, visas, and facility agreements are all tracked — late renewals incur penalties and may affect operational continuity.

Banking and Tax Notes

Energy, oil & gas, and commodities trading companies are subject to heightened KYC requirements at UAE banks. Account opening timelines of 8–16 weeks are common for these sectors. Engage a banking specialist familiar with FFZA-based entities early in your planning.

The UAE Corporate Tax (9% on taxable income above AED 375,000, effective June 2023) applies broadly. Free zone companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) for a 0% rate on qualifying income, provided they do not earn income from UAE mainland transactions and meet other criteria. Oil & gas and energy businesses should obtain specific tax advice given the sector's complexity.

Related Guides

• UAE Free Zone Licence Cost Guide 2026
• UAE Free Zone Visa Cost Guide
• Compare UAE Free Zones Side by Side
• UAE Free Zone Business Setup Guide
• Best UAE Free Zones by Business Type

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do oil and energy companies choose Fujairah Free Zone?

Fujairah's location on the Gulf of Oman — outside the Strait of Hormuz — makes it a critical node for international energy logistics. The Fujairah Oil Terminal is one of the world's largest oil storage hubs; companies providing bunkering, oil trading, storage, or maritime services to the energy sector naturally cluster in Fujairah to be close to clients and operations.

Can a general trading company set up in Fujairah Free Zone?

Yes — FFZA offers general trading licences alongside sector-specific ones. General trading companies benefit from port access and customs duty exemptions within the free zone for import, re-export, and logistics operations. Companies trading goods into the UAE mainland will need to factor in customs duties at the point of mainland entry.

What industrial facilities are available in Fujairah Free Zone?

FFZA offers warehouses, open storage areas, and industrial plots for manufacturing and processing operations. Facility sizes and specifications vary — the Authority can provide a current facility catalogue with dimensions and pricing. Companies with heavy industrial requirements should engage FFZA directly to confirm availability of suitable plots.

Is Fujairah Free Zone well-connected to the rest of the UAE?

Fujairah is approximately 120 km east of Dubai by road (roughly 1.5 hours via the E311 or E102). The emirate has its own airport (Fujairah International Airport) and the port. Road access to Dubai, Sharjah, and other Emirates is straightforward, though commuting daily from Dubai adds to operational overhead for staff-heavy businesses.

How long does it take to set up in Fujairah Free Zone?

Licence issuance typically takes 5–10 working days for standard trading or service licences. Industrial licences or activities requiring additional regulatory approvals may take longer. Bank account opening — especially for energy, commodities, or industrial businesses — typically takes 8–14 weeks and should be planned well in advance of operational start.

Sources & Disclaimer: This page is for general information only. Costs, licence categories, and port access details are subject to change; always verify directly with the Fujairah Free Zone Authority or a licensed UAE business setup consultant. Reviewed June 2026.