Free zone · Fujairah
Setting up in Creative City Fujairah
Creative City is a free zone run by the Creative City Free Zone Authority in Fujairah, on the UAE's east coast. Founded in 2007, it presents itself as the country's oldest media free zone, and its activity list has since widened well beyond media to cover consultancy, technology, education, entertainment and a broad range of trading activities. The authority is based in the Twin Towers in Fujairah city and offers virtual offices, co-working seats and private offices, along with meeting rooms and a podcast studio. For founders on a tight budget who do not need a Dubai address, it is one of the most affordable routes to a UAE licence and residence visa.
Packages from AED 4,900 (published starting price; your total depends on activity, visas and office) · estimate a full setup
Updated
Who Creative City suits
- Freelancers, consultants and creators who want a low-cost UAE licence
- Media, content and marketing businesses that work mostly online
- Founders who need a licence and visa but not a physical Dubai office
Key facts
- Established in 2007 and positioned as the UAE's oldest media free zone
- More than 900 listed activities, with several activities possible on one licence
- Dual licensing arrangement with Fujairah Municipality for wider local activity
- Virtual office, co-working and private office options, including a flexi desk
- Partnerships with Emirates Post, Fujairah Municipality and Fujairah International Airport
Things to weigh up
- Fujairah is roughly a two-hour drive from Dubai, so in-person visits take planning
- A Fujairah address may matter to clients who expect a Dubai or Abu Dhabi base
- Trading directly with the UAE mainland normally needs extra permits or a local partner
Creative City questions
Do I have to live in Fujairah to run a Creative City company?
No. Many owners live and work elsewhere in the UAE or abroad, but you will still need to complete visa steps such as medicals and biometrics in person.
Can one Creative City licence cover both consultancy and media work?
Creative City allows several activities on a single licence, provided they sit within permitted combinations. Which mix works for you depends on the package and the activity groups you choose.
Similar starting price
JAFZA
From AED 5,000
Importers, distributors and re-exporters moving physical goods
Costs and details AjmanAjman Free Zone
From AED 5,555
Cost-conscious traders and small manufacturers in the northern emirates
Costs and details SharjahShams
From AED 5,750
Content creators, influencers and podcasters
Costs and details Ras Al KhaimahRAKEZ
From AED 6,000
Manufacturers and industrial projects that need land or warehouses
Costs and detailsGet your Creative City setup cost
Free cost estimate and a consultation call within 24 hours. No obligation.