UAE Free Zone Visa Processing: Complete Guide (2026)

Flexi-desk packages typically include 1-2 visas. Smart office packages offer 2-4 visas. Physical office allocations depend on size: approximately 1 visa per 9 sqm. SPC Free Zone offers the most flexible visa allocation. Meydan provides 1 visa with its entry package. DMCC includes 1 visa with flexi-desk. Additional visas cost AED 3,500-5,500 each.

1) Obtain your establishment card from the free zone (1-3 days). 2) Apply for an entry permit (2-5 days). 3) Enter the UAE on the entry permit. 4) Complete medical fitness test (1-2 days, AED 700-1,000). 5) Apply for Emirates ID (5-7 days). 6) Get the residency visa stamped in your passport. Total process: 10-21 days.

Entry permit: AED 500-1,000. Medical fitness test: AED 700-1,000. Emirates ID: AED 270 (1 year) or AED 370 (2 years). Visa stamping: AED 400-700. Status adjustment (if already in UAE): AED 500-700. Total per visa: AED 3,500-5,500 depending on the zone and nationality. Some zones include visa costs in their packages.

Free zone company owners with residency visas can sponsor family members. Requirements: minimum salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,500 with accommodation), valid tenancy contract (Ejari), and updated marriage/birth certificates. Each dependent visa costs AED 3,500-5,000. Processing takes 5-10 working days per dependent.