DIFC Company Formation and Registration

difc company formation

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DIFC Business Setup

The DIFC free zone business setup offers a strategic gateway for companies seeking to establish a strong presence in the heart of Dubai, a premier global financial hub. DIFC free zone company formation is an ideal option for businesses looking to tap into the lucrative Middle East market while benefiting from world-class infrastructure and a robust legal framework. 

As of 2024, the DIFC free zone is home to over 6,000 active businesses, making it a dynamic and rapidly growing center for commerce and finance. Primarily designed for financial services, the DIFC free zone business setup supports a range of industries, including banking, asset management, insurance, and capital markets. 

A key advantage of DIFC's free zone business setup is its comprehensive legal and regulatory framework, which fosters transparency, governance, and investor confidence. The DIFC Authority ensures a secure and structured regulatory environment, which is crucial for businesses operating in a complex global market.

DIFC also offers state-of-the-art office spaces, premium dining options, and leisure facilities that contribute to a vibrant and collaborative professional community. Networking opportunities through conferences, events, and workshops further enhance the DIFC free zone business setup experience, allowing businesses to connect with industry leaders and innovators.

Whether you're looking for a DIFC-free zone company formation for your financial institution or tech startup, DIFC's world-class infrastructure and business-friendly policies position it as a top choice for companies seeking long-term growth and success in the Middle East.

On the whole, the Dubai International Financial Centre stands out as a premier free zone that not only serves the financial sector but also welcomes a diverse range of businesses. With its growing number of active enterprises, comprehensive support services, and commitment to fostering innovation, DIFC is well-positioned to remain a pivotal player in the global financial arena for years to come.

Ajman Free Zone Business Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

With the DIFC free zone business setup, international businesses enjoy 100% ownership without the need for a local Emirati sponsor, allowing complete control over operations.

Tax Incentives

Businesses are exempted from the corporate tax observed in the mainland unless they do not comply with the DIFC criteria.

Double Taxation Treaties

The UAE has taxation agreements with over 135 countries that prevent businesses from paying tax on the same income twice.

Capital and Profit Repatriation

DIFC free zone business setup provides businesses with the flexibility to repatriate capital and profits without restrictions, ensuring seamless cash flow.

Independent Regulatory Authority

Operating under a regulatory body - Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) dedicated to the free zone with customized laws for each industry.

English Common Law

The legal framework of the DIFC free zone is based on English Common Law, providing internationally recognized and trusted legal standards for businesses.

Transparent Environment

DIFC free zone company formation offers a transparent environment adhering to global financial standards, which attracts businesses looking for a compliant and structured marketplace

International Stock Exchange

Access to an international stock exchange with primary and secondary listings for debt and equity instruments.

Licenses Available in DIFC

Financial Services License: For banks, asset management, insurance, and investment firms.
Non-Financial Services License: For professional services such as legal, consulting, accounting, and more.
Retail License: For operating retail businesses within DIFC.
Innovation License: For tech and startup companies, including FinTech and digital businesses.
Prescribed Company License: For holding, family offices, or Special Purpose Vehicles (SPV).
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Business Licenses in Difc

DIFC Business Setup Process

Timeline: 4 to 8 weeks

01 Initial Consultation

Engage with DIFC representatives or a business consultant to discuss your business requirements, industry focus, and licensing needs.

Takes 1 to 2 days

02  Submit Application

Complete and submit the online application through the DIFC portal, providing essential details such as business name, type, ownership structure, and activities.

Takes 1 day

03   Name Reservation

DIFC reviews the application and reserves the company name, ensuring it complies with their naming conventions.

Takes 1 day

04 Pre-Approval

DIFC conducts due diligence on the company and its shareholders, this includes background checks and assessments of the proposed business activities.

Takes 3 to 5 days

05 Document Submission

Gather and submit all required documentation.

Takes 3 to 5 days

06 Payment of Fees 

Pay the necessary registration and licensing fees associated with establishing the business in DIFC.

Takes 1 day

07  License Issuance 

Once all documents are approved and fees are paid, DIFC issues the business license, allowing operations to commence.

Takes 3 to 5 days

08 Office Space Setup

Secure office space within DIFC and sign a lease agreement. 

Takes 3 to 10 days

09Visa Processing 

Apply for visas for shareholders and employees. 

Takes 10 to 15 days

10Bank Account Opening

Open a corporate bank account in Dubai after obtaining the business license

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

Documents Required in DIFC

Required documents vary based on the legal structure of the business: Private Company, Public Company, Prescribed Company, Branch of a Foreign Company, and Limited Liability Partnership.

Entity Type Required Documents
Private Company (Ltd) Application Form
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Passport copies of shareholders and directors
Proof of address for shareholders and directors
Business Plan
Regulatory approvals (if applicable)
Public Company (PLC) Application Form
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Passport copies of shareholders and director
Proof of address for shareholders and directors
Business Plan
Financial statements
Regulatory approvals (if applicable)
Branch of a Foreign Company Application form
Certificate of incorporation of the parent company
Memorandum and Articles of Association of the parent company
Passport copies of local managers
Proof of address for local managers
Board resolution to establish a branch in DIFC
Regulatory approvals (if applicable)
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) Application Form
Partnership Agreement
Passport copies of partners
Proof of address for partners
Business Plan
Regulatory approvals (if applicable)
Prescribed Company Application Form
Memorandum and Articles of Association
Passport copies of shareholders and directors
Proof of address for shareholders and directors
Purpose statement
Regulatory approvals (if applicable)

DIFC Free Zone Business Setup Cost

The cost of a DIFC-free zone business setup can vary depending on the type of license required for a DIFC-free zone company formation. The starting price for all licenses begins at AED 73,460 ($20,000). 

This cost covers the base license fee, but there are additional expenses to consider. Office space costs in DIFC free zone business setup vary significantly depending on factors such as location, size, and the type of facilities required. Furthermore, the DIFC free zone company formation may also incur local sponsor fees, if applicable, and visa and permit fees for employees or shareholders, adding to the overall setup costs. 

These factors contribute to the total cost of establishing a company in DIFC, but the advantages of operating within this world-class free zone often outweigh the initial investment. 

Note* the price is an estimate and will vary in reality. For an accurate cost breakdown, get in touch with our DIFC free zone business setup consultants.

DIFC Company Formation License Requirement

Physical Presence: The entity must have a physical presence in DIFC, including obtaining a flexible desk in co-working spaces.
Trading Restrictions: The entity is restricted from engaging in the trading or selling of physical products, such as importing/exporting goods, either directly or through e-commerce channels.
Technological Solution: The entity is required to offer a technological solution, such as a software solution, AI, Web3, Technology R&D, or Blockchain.
Non-Regulated Status: The entity must be non-regulated and is prohibited from offering any financial services, including financial advisory or arranging money services.
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List of Business Activities in DIFC

01

Computer Consultancies

02

Data Classification & Analysis Services

03

Cyber security consultation

04

Technology Research & Development

05

Web Designing

06

Portal

07

Public Networking Services

08

Software House

09

Education Technologies Research & Development

10

Education & Training Computer Software

11

Information Technology Consultants

12

Network Consultancies

13

Internet Content Provider

14

Electronic Chips Programming

15

Internet Consultancy

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