A company that has the combined features of a sole proprietorship, a partnership, and a corporation. This form is best for small business entities or individuals.
A company with more than one shareholder, with individual liability restricted to their shares in the company.
The license allows an existing foreign company to open a representative office or branch within the free zone.
Where the incorporation of an existing company is transferred from another jurisdiction to the DIFC.
DIFC is an independently regulated special economic zone located at the heart of Dubai. It offers all the operational benefits of a free zone with the common law jurisdiction of an independent arbitration authority.
This autonomy allows the free zone to realize its values of integrity, transparency, and efficiency while offering financial institutions a robust, secure, and friendly ecosystem for business development.
Located just a 15-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and easily accessible via two metro lines, DIFC provides a business-friendly environment with 1.45 million sq. ft. of top-tier infrastructure, making it an ideal place for company formation. Known as a platform for growth, it is the preferred base for numerous Fortune 500 companies, family-owned businesses, and financial institutions. DIFC caters to a wide range of companies, both financial and non-financial, offering opportunities in sectors such as banking, capital markets, wealth and asset management, insurance, and professional services, including accounting, auditing, education, training, and human resources. It also serves as a thriving hub for FinTech and Innovation, offering various Innovation Licenses. Retail and leisure are other specialties of DIFC. With a wide range of cafes, restaurants, shops, convenience services, and art galleries, entrepreneurs can achieve work-life balance and find business opportunities. All financial activities in DIFC are governed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, and businesses can operate with confidence and clarity under its English common law system.
Here’s why DIFC is the best option for a business setup:
Want to set up your business in DIFC? Contact our expert consultants today to learn about the benefits and costs of a DIFC business setup.
DIFC provides licenses for professional services, regulated/non-regulated businesses, proprietary investment, and holding/regional headquarters. For details on DIFC license costs, feel free to reach out to us via email at ic@worldwideformations.com or by phone at +971 4 355 5700.
To apply for your business license in DIFC, you'll need the following documents: - A business plan - Information on key controllers and major shareholders - Organizational chart of applicants - Information about your operating systems and controls - Company processes related to audits and compliance - Audited account reports for shareholders (last three years) - Anti-money laundering application form If you’re a branch, your company’s financial position and regulatory history profile
According to DIFC regulations, you can form a company with as few as one shareholder. The maximum number of shareholders allowed is fifty.
The costs associated with establishing a business in DIFC can vary based on factors like license type, legal structure, facilities, etc. For precise information regarding your DIFC company setup costs, please get in touch with us via email at ic@worldwideformations.com or call +971 4 355 5700.