Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
DIFC, one of over 30 free zones in Dubai, is strategically positioned as a gateway between the East and West. It offers a world-class platform for businesses and financial institutions aiming to access emerging markets in the region. With its high-quality regulatory environment, English law-based framework, and favorable tax policies, DIFC is an ideal choice for companies in finance and professional services.
Core Business Sectors in DIFC
| Sector |
Description |
| Banking |
Home to major international banks. |
| Professional Services |
Leading law firms and consultancy firms. |
| Global Corporations |
Multinational companies establishing regional headquarters. |
| Insurance |
Top global insurance companies. |
| Wealth Management |
Investment and asset management firms. |
| Capital Markets |
Providing access to various capital market services. |
DIFC is recommended for companies involved in banking, insurance, legal services,FinTech,AI and wealth management
Key Benefits of Setting Up in DIFC
| Benefit |
Description |
| 100% Foreign Ownership |
Companies can be fully owned by foreign investors. |
| Zero Income Tax |
Enjoy 0% income tax, subject to regulatory compliance. |
| Zero Corporate Tax |
0% corporate tax rate for compliant companies. |
| Double Taxation Treaties |
Access to UAE’s extensive network of double taxation treaties. |
| Capital & Profit Repatriation |
Full freedom to repatriate profits and capital without restrictions. |
| Independent Regulatory Agency |
DIFC operates under an independent regulatory body, aligned with major financial regulators globally. |
| English Common Law |
Legal framework based on English Common Law, providing familiarity and stability for international businesses. |
| Skilled Workforce |
Access to a skilled and diverse professional workforce in Dubai. |
| Transparent Environment |
Operate in a transparent business environment with global best practices. |
| International Stock Exchange |
Access to an international stock exchange for primary and secondary debt and equity listings. |
| Flexible Legal Structures |
DIFC allows various legal entities with flexible capital structuring options. |
| Modern Infrastructure |
Benefit from advanced transport, communication, and internet infrastructure in Dubai. |
Business Licenses in DIFC
| License Type |
Suitable for |
| DIFC Innovation License |
Companies focusing on innovative and emerging technologies. |
| DIFC Crowdfunding License |
Crowdfunding companies. |
| DIFC Financial License |
Financial institutions and service providers. |
| DIFC 3D License |
Companies involved in 3D printing technologies. |
| DIFC Investment Advisor License |
Firms providing investment advisory services. |
| DIFC Payment Service Provider (PSP) License |
Payment processing and related services. |
DIFC Company Formation Requirements
| Requirement |
Details |
| Physical Presence |
Must have a physical office, even if it’s a flexible desk in a co-working space. |
| Trading Restrictions |
Cannot trade physical products; limited to software, AI, Web3, Blockchain, and other tech solutions. |
| Non-Regulated Status |
Cannot offer regulated financial services such as financial advisory or money services. |
| Technological Solution |
Required to provide technological solutions (software, AI, blockchain, etc.). |
List of Approved Business Activities in DIFC
| Business Activities |
| Computer Consultancies |
| Data Classification & Analysis |
| Cyber Security Consultation |
| Technology R&D |
| Web Designing |
| Portal Development |
| Public Networking Services |
| Software House |
| Education Technologies R&D |
| IT Consultants |
| Network Consultancies |
| Internet Content Provider |
| Electronic Chip Programming |
| Internet Consultancy |
DIFC Company Registration Process
| Step |
Details |
| Application Form |
Complete and submit the official DIFC application form. |
| Business Plan |
Provide a detailed business plan outlining your company’s objectives, operations, and financial projections. |
| Audited Accounts |
Submit audited financial accounts for the last three years (if applicable). |
| Shareholder & Director Details |
Include detailed information about shareholders and directors. |
For financial companies, additional industry-specific documentation may be required.
Company Setup Steps
| Step |
Details |
| Initial Approval |
Secure initial approval from DIFC Authority for the company registration and entity name. |
| Application Submission |
Submit the application, including a business plan, company structure, and proof of capital investment. |
| Capital Requirements |
Private companies: No minimum share capital required. Public companies: Minimum USD 100,000. |
