Dubai Free Zone (IFZA)
Incorporation package includes
- Company Registration & Licensing
- Flexible Office and Workspace Solutions
- Shareholder and Director Appointment Support
- Residence Visa Processing
- Ongoing support for annual license renewal, office lease agreements, and any compliance filings required by IFZA to maintain your business in good standing
Why form a company in the IFZA Free Zone?
100% Foreign Ownership
IFZA allows full foreign ownership, giving international entrepreneurs complete control of their business without needing a local sponsor.
Cost-Effective Setup
IFZA is known for its cost-effective setup packages, making it one of the most affordable free zones in Dubai for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
No Corporate or Income Tax
Companies in IFZA enjoy a 0% corporate and personal income tax rate, with no currency restrictions or repatriation limits.
Wide Range of Business Activities
IFZA supports a broad range of business activities, from consulting to trading and services, catering to various industries and allowing for flexible business operations.
Quick and Efficient Setup
The incorporation process in IFZA is streamlined and efficient, allowing for faster registration compared to many other free zones in Dubai.
No Physical Presence Required
IFZA does not mandate physical presence in Dubai during the incorporation process, making it convenient for foreign entrepreneurs.
Strategic Location
Located in Dubai, IFZA offers excellent connectivity to the MENA region and access to Dubai’s world-class infrastructure.
Easy Visa Options
With simple visa packages, IFZA makes it easy to secure UAE residency for business owners and employees.
Enjoy IFZA's tax benefits
0% Corporate Tax
IFZA companies are exempt from corporate taxes.
100% Foreign Ownership
IFZA allows full foreign ownership with no need for a local sponsor.
No Personal or Income Tax
There is no tax on personal income or dividends earned within IFZA.
No Import or Export Duties
Goods can move in and out of IFZA without duties.
No Exchange Controls
IFZA offers unrestricted movement of funds for profit repatriation and capital flows.
Delivery timeline
The IFZA setup process is one of the fastest in Dubai, with licensing taking 1-3 business days. The visa process takes an additional 5-7 days, if required. Here’s a breakdown:
Document Submission
Preparation and submission of initial documents for company registration.
Company Registration and License Issuance
Once documents are verified, IFZA issues the trade license, allowing your company to begin operations immediately.
Residence Visa Application (if required)
After the trade license is issued, visa applications can be processed, which includes medical exams, Emirates ID processing, and residency stamping.
Required documents
Our experienced team will guide you through each step to ensure that your IFZA company setup is smooth and compliant with all regulatory standards. To set up a company in IFZA, you’ll need the following documents:
Passport Copies
Clear, color copies of passports for each shareholder and director.
Proof of Residential Address
Recent utility bill, bank statement, or proof of residential address for each shareholder and director.
No Objection Certificate (if applicable)
If the shareholder or director is already a UAE resident, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor may be required.
Specimen Signature
A signed specimen signature for each shareholder and authorized signatory.
Bank Reference Letter (if required)
A bank reference letter may be requested for international shareholders, based on IFZA’s requirements.
Frequently answered questions
Find answers to common questions about our services and the company formation process. We’re here to provide clarity and support for your business journey.
Which free zone is more cost-effective for startups and small businesses?
IFZA:
- More cost-effective for startups, freelancers, and small businesses.
- Offers affordable licensing and flexible office solutions, making it a great option for companies with a limited budget or those looking to minimize overhead costs.
- Quick and easy setup with fewer regulatory complexities.
DMCC:
- Higher setup costs compared to IFZA, especially for premium office spaces and licenses.
- Best suited for established businesses looking to expand globally, rather than small or early-stage startups.
- The higher cost is often justified by the prestige and global business ecosystem it offers.
Can IFZA companies obtain UAE residency visas?
Yes, IFZA companies can sponsor residency visas for shareholders, employees, and their dependents.
- Number of Visas: The number of visas you can sponsor depends on the office space leased (e.g., a flexi-desk allows for fewer visas, while a larger office allows for more).
- Residency Visa Duration: Visas are typically issued for 1-3 years and are renewable.
- The visa process is managed through IFZA’s streamlined service, which helps ensure compliance with UAE immigration laws.
What types of office spaces are available in IFZA?
IFZA offers a variety of office space options to suit different business needs:
- Flexi-Desk: Ideal for small businesses or startups, providing a shared workspace with the ability to sponsor a limited number of visas.
- Private Offices: Dedicated office spaces for larger teams or businesses requiring more staff and operations.
- Virtual Office: Suitable for businesses that do not need physical office space but still want a presence in the UAE.
- These options provide flexibility and scalability based on the size of the business and operational needs.
What Are the Options for IFZA Companies to Operate in the UAE?
Through a Local Distributor or Agent:
- IFZA companies can sell products or provide services within the UAE through a local distributor, agent, or third-party representative.
- This means they cannot directly conduct transactions but can partner with a UAE-based entity for local operations.
Setting Up a Branch or Subsidiary in the UAE Mainland:
- If an IFZA company wants to directly operate in the UAE mainland, they may need to set up a branch or subsidiary in a mainland area, which requires a local sponsor or partner (UAE national) for most activities.
Dubai Mainland or Other Free Zones:
- Alternatively, the company could set up in a Dubai Mainland or another free zone with more flexibility for local operations, such as DMCC, which allows for direct trade within the UAE, but with higher setup costs.
