UAE Free Zone Visa Cost Guide 2026

The advertised visa cost is only part of the picture. Several additional charges can catch first-time applicants off guard, so it pays to budget for these from the start.

Visa renewal fees. UAE free zone visas are typically valid for 2–3 years, after which they must be renewed. Renewal costs are usually similar to the initial visa fee (AED 2,500–5,000), plus you'll need to redo the medical test and renew your Emirates ID. Some free zones offer multi-year visa options that reduce the per-year renewal cost, so ask about these upfront.

Dependent visa costs. If you plan to sponsor your spouse, children, or parents, each dependent visa costs approximately AED 2,500–4,000 in government and processing fees. You'll also need separate health insurance for each dependent, adding AED 600–1,500 per person per year. For a family of four, dependent visas alone can add AED 10,000–15,000 to your first-year costs.

Cancellation charges. If you decide to close your business or switch free zones, visa cancellation fees apply. These typically range from AED 500–1,500 per visa. The process involves cancelling the residence visa, settling any outstanding fees, and surrendering the Emirates ID. While your security deposit is refundable, it can take 30–60 days to be returned after cancellation.

Late renewal penalties. Missing your visa renewal deadline results in overstay fines of AED 100–200 per day (depending on the visa type and duration of overstay). After 30 days, additional penalties and potential entry bans can apply. Some free zones charge their own late renewal fee on top of the government fines. Set a reminder at least 30 days before your visa expiry to avoid these charges.

To get a complete picture of your total setup costs, including license fees, office space, and visa costs combined, check our full cost breakdown page.