Client Engagements

Do you work with free zone companies?

Free Zone Company Services

Yes — Kounted works with companies incorporated in UAE mainland and across all major free zones. Our team has specific expertise in the regulatory requirements of the most common free zone jurisdictions.

Free Zones We Regularly Service

  • ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) — mandatory statutory audit, IFRS reporting
  • DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) — mandatory audit, DIFC Companies Law 2018
  • DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) — mandatory audit, DMCC-approved auditors
  • JAFZA (Jebel Ali Free Zone) — mandatory audit under JAFZA Companies Regulations
  • RAK FZ, Meydan, IFZA, Dubai South — and others upon request

Key Differences for Free Zone Companies

Free zone entities have different compliance obligations compared to mainland companies:

ObligationMainlandFree Zone
Statutory AuditNot mandatory (per se)Mandatory (most zones)
MOHRE / WPSRequiredNot applicable (MOHRE exempt)
Corporate Tax9% standard rate0% if Qualifying Free Zone Person
VAT5% if registered5% if registered
Establishment CardRequiredNot applicable

Corporate Tax for Free Zone Companies

Free zone companies may qualify for the 0% Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) rate under UAE Corporate Tax Law, provided they:

  • Maintain adequate substance in the free zone
  • Derive qualifying income from qualifying activities
  • Have audited financial statements

Kounted can assess whether your free zone entity qualifies as a QFZP and handle your CT filing accordingly.

How Kounted Can Help

We provide end-to-end accounting, audit coordination, and tax services tailored to your specific free zone requirements. Contact us to discuss your jurisdiction.

Still have questions?

Our team is happy to help with any questions about our services.