Selecting the right freezone in the UAE can do both that is to make or break your business setup strategy. Among the most considered options in 2026, Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZ) stands out for global logistics and trade, but how does it compare with other famous free zones like RAKEZ, SHAMS, Meydan, DMCC and Sharjah Free Zones?
Let’s dive into a practical cost and benefit comparison to assist founders make the smartest choice.
Cost and benefits comparison of Dubai Airport Free Zone vs other free zones
There are a variety of benefits that come under specific cost for different free zones. It depends on you to align your ideal business activities in terms of cost to achieve the right benefits.
| Free Zone | Typical License Cost (AED/year) | Key Benefits | Best For |
| Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZ) | 15,000–50,000+ | Airport-linked logistics, customs clearance, premium infrastructure | Trading, aviation, global exports |
| Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) | 30,000+ | Global reputation, multi-activity scope, strong banking network | Commodities, finance, trading |
| Meydan Free Zone | 12,500+ | Affordable digital setup, fast licensing | E-commerce, consultants, SMEs |
| Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) | 5,750+ | Low-cost media licenses, online process | Freelancers, creatives |
| Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) | 6,000+ | Industrial facilities, flexible packages | SMEs, manufacturing |
| Sharjah Free Zones | 5,750+ | Cost-effective, SME-focused ecosystem | Budget startups |
Check for full company setup cost in DAFZA — here!
DAFZ vs DMCC
- DAFZ: Premium Logistic advantage because of immediate airport axis and in zone customs clearance support. It also comes with lower base license fee which indicates faster import and export cycles along with operational efficiency which is best for Logistic and trading business.
- DMCC: At DMCC, license fee cost is higher but provides unmatched connectivity and global reputation across financial and commodity sectors. DMCC is best for banking relationships and multi-activity flexibility providing competitive edge among the diversified portfolios.
Best choice:
- DAFZ: If operational logistics and international trade is the top priority then DAFZ is the best choice.
- DMCC: If brand prestige and diversified activities scope matters more than DMCC is the right choice.
DAFZ vs Meydan
- DAFZ: DAFZ offers premium infrastructure but higher ongoing cost if companies comprise office and visa quotas.
- Meydan: Lower license cost and effective digital setup with efficiency to establish E-Commerce and service companies demanding first market entry with minimal physical offices.
Best choice:
- DAFZ: Warehousing and inventory alongside cross border trade are best at DAFZ.
- Meydan: Digital business and lightweight operations are effective at Meydan.
DAFZ vs SHAMS
- DAFZ: Stronger trade ecosystem and infrastructure but a little costlier.
- SHAMS: Budget-friendly for rapid online setup and lesser overhead; ideal for solo entrepreneurs and freelancers.
Best choice:
- DAFZ: Businesses expecting serious Logistic infrastructure can go for DAFZ.
- SHAMS: Startups with tight budgets or focused on service and creative businesses can go for SHAMS.
DAFZ vs RAKEZ
- DAFZ: Airport centric and premium benefits but at a higher cost.
- RAKEZ: Extremely competitive pricing and industrial facilities outside Dubai. RAKEZ is excellent for manufacturing and trading companies that do not require a Dubai address.
Best choice:
- DAFZ: Global logistics and Exports.
- RAKEZ: Heavy industries and manufacturing under budget.
DAFZ vs Sharjah
- DAFZ: Comparatively expensive but superior for global trade-oriented companies delivering high value.
- Sharjah: Mostly offer lowest license cost in the UAE starting from AED 5,750 with the package of 100% foreign ownership and rapid setup.
Best choice:
- DAFZ: Strategic hub for enterprise and logistic growth.
- Sharjah: Cost effective for retail, service or creative ventures.
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Who should choose DAFZ?
Choosing Dubai Airport free zone (DAFZ) Is ideal when you are business model carry the following:
- Export-import and logistics as core activities.
- Desire to get premium global business credibility.
- Growth orientation with high value trade operations.
- Require rapid custom clearance and warehousing flexibility.
Note: Entrepreneurs focused on global trade efficiency and Logistic excellence should go for DAFZ.
Conclusion
With the comparison of Dubai Airport free zone versus other freezone it is observed that there is no one size fits all answer. DAFZ excels in terms of strategic logistics, while options like RAKEZ and SHAMS continue to shine in terms of affordability. On the other hand, DMCC is popular for its broad activity allowance whereas Meydan emphasizes on digital first businesses.
Let’s connect with us to make your choice a line with proper industry focus and mitigate budget constraints in the long-term growth plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which freezone has the lowest set up cost?
Sharjah and SHAMS are affordable free zones with packages starting at AED 5,750 annually.
Does DAFZ provide tax advantages?
Yes, DAFZ Prison companies enjoy tax exemptions and full profit repatriation under UAE law.
Can a DAFZ company trade globally?
Absolutely — DAFZ’s strategic airport location adds significant logistical advantages for global trade.
Do DAFZ allow full foreign ownership?
Yes DAFZ allows 100% foreign ownership like other free zones.
Is DAFZ suitable for startups?
Yes, DAFZ is suitable for startups that require logistic advantage.
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