Speak to us
Knowledge & Insights / Shallon Updates

Best Locations For Business Setup In Dubai

Published December 11, 2021 · Shallon Legal Team · Legal Insights
Best Locations For Business Setup In Dubai

Why Dubai for business setup?

The strategic geographic location of Dubai makes it one of the favourite cities for economic activity. The business environment of Dubai is very business-friendly that helps the businesses to grow and be successful.

The government has policies that facilitate new businesses. The infrastructure of Dubai and cheap labour make it an ideal place for businesses to grow. 

Best Business Setup Locations in Dubai

Locations for Business Set up in Dubai

Selecting the right location for your business is very crucial for its success. It is important to explore the location for business setup to ensure that the infrastructure, facilities, and logistics suit your business perfectly. 

Mainland and free zones are two main categories under which new business locations are divided. Each zone has its own rules and regulations. Mainland companies in Dubai are allowed to freely do their business all around UAE, however, if there is a foreign investor then the maximum share he can hold in the business is 49%. So a foreign investor needs a local sponsor. 

Some of the most favourite locations for business formation in mainland Dubai are:

Sheikh Zayed Road

A road in the center of Dubai that has high buildings on both sides includes iconic buildings of Dubai.

Business Bay

This area is in a central location with easy access to the rest of the city. International companies’ corporate offices operate in this area. 

Deira

It is one of the oldest areas in the city, housing the majority of the city’s labor force as well as small to medium-sized enterprises.  

Al-Qusais

It includes an industrial zone as well as affordable apartments in spacious neighborhoods. This area is close to Sharjah and the airport making it a good choice for logistics business.   

Bur Dubai

This area attracts tourists as it is a historical place located near Dubai Creek. Shopping for textile computer accessories is very popular in this area. 

 Al-Quoz

It is a large area that is a popular place for manufacturing companies and warehouses that has cheap rent.

Freezone has its benefits and limitations. The locations in the free zone are mentioned below.

Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

This zone is the largest free zone in the world that is best for manufacturing and trading.

 Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

This is located near Dubai Airport which is best for telecommunications, IT, aerospace and aviation, logistics, and luxury goods. 

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

This area is best suited for technology-related firms. 

Dubai Media City (DMC)

The media industry-related firms operate in this area.

Dubai Healthcare City (DHC)

This zone is perfect for firms in the healthcare sector. This zone has medical professionals from all around the world which is the center of clinics, medical care, and hospitals.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

This zone follows an international legal framework that attracts local and foreign institutions, giving ease of business operations and transactions. 

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

It is one of the fastest-growing zones in terms of trading international commodities. The companies operating here deal in gold, diamond, precious metals, foodstuff, industrial materials, and beverages. 

Shallon CSP is an independent services provider and privately owned company formation in Dubai. The company experts’ provide a vast range of advisory solutions and guidance to their clients for setting up their own business in the best location in Dubai.

Legal Disclaimer:

Articles and insights published by Shallon Legal are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute formal legal or financial advice. For specific advice tailored to your personal or commercial requirements, please consult with our legal practitioners directly.

More Reading

Recent Knowledge Articles

View all articles →
Jul 30, 2026

What are the benefits of a DIFC Will for a South African or expatriate?

As an expatriate national residing in the UAE, having a valid Will is crucial to ensure that your…

Jul 30, 2026

What is so scary about private trusts?

The perceived disadvantage of a trust is its irrevocability, but modern DIFC & ADGM frameworks offer flexibility and…

Jul 30, 2026

Getting jurisdiction right at the outset of a DIFC dispute

So many cases are quietly lost on jurisdiction. Settling court jurisdiction early in commercial agreements is often decisive.

View AI-optimized business information