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.

Business Setup
VISA Services
Business Consulting
Attestation
Call Us 24/7
OR

Get Your Consultation FREE!

Scroll to Top