The Ahmad Bin Rashid Free Zone in Umm Al Quwain provides excellent administrative and logistical support for business.
The Ahmad Bin Rashid Port and Free Zone in Umm Al Quwain is located on the west coast of the UAE, about 48 kilometres north-east of Dubai. The free zone complements the emirate, a haven of peace far removed from the hustle and bustle and rush hours experienced in big cities.
History
Pursuant to Decree No 2/87 issued by His Highness Shaikh Rashid Bin Ahmad Al Mualla, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, a Free Trade Zone was established in the confines of the port and adjacent land.
The Authority concluded construction contracts in March 1988 and construction of the first unit together with the expansion of services commenced on April 1, 1988.
Details
Phase I of the free zone has made a provision for 34 light industrial units, together with a mess hall and modest accommodation for the labour force.
The substantial investment cost involved in the provision of services is being borne by the government of Umm Al Quwain.
The free zone complex consists of four wharves within a secured area of 400,000 square metres, capable of handling ocean vessels, and 118,000 square metres of land reserved for light industrial development.
Investment incentives include 100 per cent foreign ownership, no sponsorship or work permit restrictions, up to 100 per cent repatriation of capital and no customs charges or currency restrictions. There are also no corporate taxes for a minimum of 15 years and no import duty or export taxes.
Services
The port facilities operate on the free port concept, which has been extended to include manufacture and assembly.
Standard services of water, electricity, and communications, labour accommodation (both male and female) together with bonded storage are all available.
In addition, the Free Zone Authority provides comprehensive, administrative and logistical support to the tenant.
A manufacturer licensed to operate in the Free Zone is not required to have a local partner.
In addition, the Government through the Port Authority provides full back-up services for the storage of materials in the Free Zone.
The Port Authority provides a comprehensive warehousing service which includes receiving, accounting and subsequent distribution on manufacturers' representation with control of all movements remaining in the proprietor's hand.
- Courtesy: www.fcci.gov.ae
