DIFC Free Zone Business Setup
Set Up Your Business in Dubai’s Global Hub for Finance and Innovation
Starting at AED 12,500
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Leading Financial Hub in MEASA Governed by English Common Law Access a Global Fintech Hub
- Leading Financial Hub in MEASA
- Governed by English Common Law
- Access a Global Fintech Hub
Why Choose DIFC Free Zone?
A globally recognized financial business district with a dynamic ecosystem

100% foreign ownership and full capital repatriation

Dubai's leading dynamic financial hub

Strategic location with access to global markets

Independent regulatory authority

DIFC Free Zone – An Overview
Since its establishment in 2004, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has emerged as Dubai’s leading financial hub and has been recognized among global financial hubs as well. What sets Dubai International Financial Centre Free Zone apart from other Dubai Free Zones is its adoption of the English Common Law regulatory framework, creating a haven of legal certainty and transparency for entrepreneurs. DIFC Free Zone is home to a wide range of financial firms, including multinational banks, law firms, investment firms, and other fintech companies. But beyond its global reputation for being a financial hub not just in the UAE, DIFC is also a vibrant ecosystem that assimilates community living, retail, lifestyle, and innovation, all within a single integrated district, making it a sought-after option for business formation in Dubai.
Business Licenses at DIFC Free Zone
Here are some of the business activities that are prevalent in the Dubai International Financial Centre Free Zone


Banking
A robust platform for institutions engaged in corporate and investment banking operations.


Asset Management
A platform for fund managers and private equity firms to manage assets under a regulatory framework.


Insurance
For service-based businesses such as legal consultancy, auditing, engineering, and medical services.


Food and Beverage
Beyond finance, DIFC is also home to a wide array of cafes and fine-dining restaurants.
Success Starts Here
A dynamic Free Zone of finance and opportunity awaits you
DIFC Free Zone Office Space Solutions
Find the perfect workspace to match your business needs with flexible and modern options

Serviced Offices
Fully furnished office spaces pre-equipped with modern amenities.

Co-working Spaces
Flexible shared environments that encourage networking and collaboration.

Virtual Offices
A prestigious DIFC address with related amenities, without the need for an actual, physical place.

Executive Suites
Premium office suites designed for a refined work setting.
How it Works?
Set up your DIFC Free Zone company in three simple steps
Get a Quote
Receive a customized business setup plan based on your needs.
Register Your Business
Submit your application and complete the necessary registration steps.
Start Operating
Receive your business license and begin operations smoothly.
Process to Obtain Your DIFC Free Zone License
We guide you through the following steps to help you with your DIFC company registration:
1. Choose Your Legal Structure
Decide on the legal entity type, such as Branch, FZE, or FZC, based on shareholders and liability structure.
2. Define Your Business Activity
Select from DIFC Free Zone’s approved business categories that align with your operations.
3. Select an Office Solution
Choose from flexi-desks or private office spaces, based on your business requirements.
4. Secure Necessary Approvals
Some business activities require prior approvals; others allow direct licensing.
5. Submit Your License Application
Submit the necessary documents and apply for a business license based on your activity.
6. Obtain Your Business License
Upon approval, receive your license and workspace lease agreement from DIFC Free Zone.
Note: The process may vary depending on your business activity and regulatory requirements.
Residence Visa Process for DIFC
Once your business license is issued, we handle the entire visa application process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Step 1: Establishment Card Application
We initiate and process your company’s establishment card, a mandatory requirement for visa applications.
Step 2: Submit E-Visa Application
Our team handles the e-visa application, ensuring all necessary documents are submitted, including:
- Business license
- Establishment card
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Current visa or cancellation paper (if applicable)
Step 3: E-Visa Issuance and UAE Entry
Once the e-visa is issued, you may use it to enter the UAE from overseas. If you are inside the UAE at the time of application, DIFC will issue an e-visa plus a change of status.
Step 4: Complete Medical Test
We will schedule your medical test. Ensure you have the required documents:
- Original passport
- E-visa copy
- Passport-size photos
- Change of status confirmation (if inside the UAE)
Step 5: Emirates ID Biometrics
We guide you through the biometric registration process for your Emirates ID. Required documents include
- Original passport
- E-visa copy
- Passport-size photos
- Medical test results
- Emirates ID application
- Change of status confirmation (if applicable)
Step 6: Residence Visa & Emirates ID Issuance
Once your visa is approved, we will ensure you receive your Emirates ID, which serves as proof of residency in the UAE. With Zone10X, you don’t have to worry about complex paperwork; we handle everything for you. Get in touch today, and let’s get your DIFC company registration processed 10x more smoothly! Get in touch with our team to guide you through the DIFC license cost.
Documents Required for DIFC Dubai Company Formation
The following documents are required to set up a company at DIFC. Requirements may vary based on the business activity and free zone regulations.
For Individual Shareholders:
- Passport copy of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- Latest UAE entry stamp, visit visa copy, or residence visa copy
- Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
- Proof of address for shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- Passport-sized photograph of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
- Know Your Customer (KYC) documents and sanctions form
- Business plan (required for certain activities or upon request)
For Corporate Shareholders:
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
- Trade license (if applicable)
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Board resolution
- Certificate of Incumbency/Good Standing
- Documents for each individual shareholder as mentioned above
Upon submission of the required documents, the free zone will issue:
- Business License
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Shared-desk Agreement (if applicable)
- Share Certificate
- Certificate of Incorporation
Our Banking Partners
We work closely with the following banks for opening bank accounts for our clients









