Compare Fujairah Free Zone and Hamriyah Free Zone for Maritime & Shipping setup. Side-by-side comparison of fees, processing times, substance, and bank approval.
Fujairah Free Zone vs Hamriyah Free Zone for Maritime & Shipping: Fujairah Free Zone starts at AED 21,500 (85% bank approval) and Hamriyah Free Zone at AED 12,000 (85%). On Year-1 cost, Hamriyah Free Zone is the lower-priced option.
| Jurisdiction | Baseline Gov Fee | Processing Speed | Banking | Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AED 21,500 | 2-4 days | Moderate | Low-cost setup, port access, industrial and trading activities | |
| AED 12,000 | 2-4 days | Moderate | Industrial and trading, deep-water port access, heavy industries |
Lowest cost setup, port access, industrial and trading activities
Maritime licences cover shipping, ship management, yacht chartering, and marine services. Dubai Maritime City, JAFZA, and Hamriyah Free Zone are popular choices. UAE Federal Transport Authority or Dubai Maritime Authority approval may be required depending on the vessel type and activity. Ship registration under the UAE flag follows a separate process.
Maritime transport services qualify as a qualifying free zone activity. International maritime transport is zero-rated for VAT. Domestic maritime transport services within the UAE may attract 5% VAT.
Maritime companies should prepare for enhanced due diligence related to sanctions screening and vessel ownership verification. Banks will request vessel registration documents, flag state certificates, and crew manifests. Trade finance facilities are essential for shipping operations.
December 2025: Recognition for Fujairah Digital Government and digital transformation support
November 2025: Participated in BIG 5 GLOBAL 2025
October 2025: Participated in GITEX GLOBAL 2025
July 2025: Welcomed delegation from Fujairah Customs Department for operational cooperation
Company setup in Fujairah Free Zone starts from AED 21,500 per year.
Fujairah Free Zone processes company registrations in 2-4 working days.
Bank account approval probability is 85%. Banking difficulty is rated Moderate.
Most UAE free zones including Fujairah Free Zone allow remote company incorporation. Bank account opening may require an in-person visit.
Fujairah Free Zone does not require paid-up share capital for most standard license types. Share capital is notional.
Both zones are evenly matched. Choose Fujairah Free Zone if: Lowest cost setup, port access, industrial and trading activities. Choose Hamriyah Free Zone if: Industrial and trading, deep-water port access, heavy industries.
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