Investors should consider specific factors when choosing whether to establish a legal presence onshore or in a UAE free zone.

Key Points:

..Fintech companies typically must establish a legal presence — either onshore or in a free zone — in order to conduct business in the UAE.

..Existing foreign incorporated companies also have the option of either entering into a commercial agency relationship with a UAE national or an entity that is wholly owned by UAE nationals.

..Most free zones in the UAE are industry-specific and only license certain activities. Investors should consider which free zone is most appropriate based on the nature of the proposed business.