Dubai International Financial Centre | DIFC Guide
Dubai International Free Zone (DIFC) is one of a kind, which focuses on the financial and banking sector. It’s run by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), which has established independent laws and systems special for the DIFC Free Zone. This has helped the zone grow into one of the leading financial hubs in the MEASA region. It caters to over 6000 companies currently.
Here’s what makes DIFC truly special:
- DIFC is home to over 300+ investors, VCs, and accelerators, making it easier for new businesses to raise funds and connect with the right people.
- Startups can test their ideas in a regulatory sandbox with guidance from regulators before launching fully.
- With 100% foreign ownership and dual licensing, startups can operate in DIFC and mainland Dubai without setting up a separate entity.
The infrastructure in the zone basically makes it a city within a city. With its own laws suited to the business community, great infrastructure, and easy setup process, this place is perfect for startups and multinational corporations alike.
If you belong to the financial, banking, or fintech sector, this zone is for you. This guide walks you through everything you should know before setting out to start your business, to save you from any complications and challenges.
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Business Licenses in DIC UAE
Sector: Banking
Activities: Accepting deposits, managing profit-sharing accounts.
Key staff: Board of Directors, Senior Executive Officer (SEO), Finance Officer (FO), Chief Risk Officer, Compliance Officer (CO), Money Laundering Reporting Officer (MLRO), and Internal Auditor.
Business Examples: HSBC Middle East, Standard Chartered DIFC, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) DIFC.
Sector: Market Makers & Credit Providers
Activities: Dealing in investments as principal, providing credit.
Key staff: Same as Category 1, but FO and Risk Officer can be from the parent company.
Business Examples: Goldman Sachs International, Morgan Stanley DIFC, Citi DIFC.
Sector: Brokerage
Activities: Dealing in investments as a matched principal or agent.
Key staff: Similar to Category 2. CO and MLRO roles can be combined. Internal Auditor can be outsourced.
Business Examples: EFG Hermes, Mubasher DIFC, Shuaa Capital.
Sector: Custodian & Employee Schemes
Activities: Providing custody, acting as a trustee, operating employee money purchase schemes.
Key staff: Similar to Category 3A. CO and MLRO roles can be combined.
Business Examples: Northern Trust DIFC, BNY Mellon, State Street Bank
Sector: Asset & Fund Managers
Activities: Managing assets, investment funds, custody, money services.
Key staff: Same as 3B. FO, CO, MLRO, and Internal Auditor roles can be outsourced.
Business Examples: BlackRock DIFC, Franklin Templeton Investments, Abraaj Group.
Sector: Money Services
Activities: Providing money services (excluding stored value issuance).
Key staff: Same as 3C. CO and MLRO can be outsourced.
Business Examples: Western Union DIFC, Al Fardan Exchange, Xpress Money DIFC.
Sector: Advisory & Arranging
Activities: Investment & credit advisory, arranging custody & insurance, operating crowdfunding platforms.
Key staff: Similar to 3D. Risk Officer is optional and usually outsourced.
Business Examples: PwC DIFC, Deloitte DIFC, KPMG DIFC.
Sector: Islamic Business
Activities: Operating an Islamic financial business.
Key staff: Similar to Category 1.
Business Examples: Dubai Islamic Bank DIFC, Emirates Islamic DIFC, Noor Bank DIFC.
Top Selling DIFC
Promotions
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 11,900.00
Save up to AED 1,785.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 17,900.00
Save up to AED 2,685.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 25,400.00
Save up to AED 3,810.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 23,900.00
Save up to AED 3,585.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 27,400.00
Save up to AED 4,110.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 25,900.00
Save up to AED 3,885.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 29,400.00
Save up to AED 4,410.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 31,400.00
Save up to AED 4,710.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 29,900.00
Save up to AED 4,485.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 33,400.00
Save up to AED 5,010.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 21,900.00
Save up to AED 3,285.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 27,900.00
Save up to AED 4,185.00
- Trade License
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 31,900.00
Save up to AED 4,785.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 35,400.00
Save up to AED 5,310.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 33,900.00
Save up to AED 5,085.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 37,400.00
Save up to AED 5,610.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 35,900.00
Save up to AED 5,385.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 39,400.00
Save up to AED 5,910.00
Executive Contains
Business Incorporation Starter Pack
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Employee from A to Z
- OR
- 1 Free Visa Processing for Dependents from A to Z
- Health Insurance Assistance
- VAT Registration – One Time Only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP assistance for visa application and Company incorporation
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 37,900.00
Save up to AED 5,685.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 41,400.00
Save up to AED 6,210.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Basic
STARTING FROM
AED 39,900.00
Save up to AED 5,985.00
- Trade License
- 2 Free Visas for Life
- Official Company Stamp
- Expiry Reminder Services
- Brand Identity (Logo/Letterhead/Business Card Design)
- Bank Account Opening Assistance (UAE)
- Free IBG Fee on 1st Renewal
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Investor Visa
- Door-to-door document delivery (within Dubai)
- VAT & Accounting and Bookkeeping Consultation
Executive
STARTING FROM
AED 43,400.00
Save up to AED 6,510.00
- Everything from Elite Plus
- Free IBG Fee on 1 Employee Visa OR Free IBG Fee on 1 Dependent Visa
- VAT Registration – One time only
- Email Setup Assistance
- Dedicated Account Manager
- VIP Assistance for Company Incorporation & 3 visa applications
Process and Timeline
- 1Should be 18 years old and above
- 2Should not have any criminal records
- 3The business should be legally permissible
- 4Should be an individual, corporate or mixed of both
Company Registration
For Individual Shareholder/s
1. Scanned passport copy
2. Emirates ID copy (back & front), if applicable
3. Scanned visa copy/UAE Entry Stamp/Tourist or Visit Visa Copy
4. Number of Shareholders with sharing (%) of Manager of the company
If Manager is not a Shareholder:
1. Full Name as per the passport
2. Valid Phone Number
3. UAE Home Address
4. Scanned passport copy
5. Passport size with white background
6. Scanned copy of the visa page
7. Emirates ID copy (back & front)
For Corporate Shareholder/s
1. Board resolution
2. Trade License, MOA, Incumbency, Share Certificate of the shareholding company
3. Passport copy/ies of the UBO/s
4. Passport copy/ies of the Manager/s
5. Visa of the Manager/s if UAE resident
6. UAE Home address of the Authorized Signatory
7. Passport size photo of the Authorized signatory
8. Number of Shareholders with sharing (%) of Manager of the company
Residence Visa Application
Company Documents
1. Trade License copy
2. Establishment Card copy
Applicant
1. Scanned passport copy, should be current and valid for at least 6 months – coloured, uncut with full border
2. Passport size photo with white background
3. Tourist or visit visa/Residence Cancellation report copy (if applicable)
4. Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
5. Duly filled visa application form
License Package Fees
Standard License – Zero Visa Package
Starts from
AED 11,900
Standard License – With Visa Package
Starts from
AED 17,900
Immigration Fees
Establishment Card – New
AED 2,000
Establishment Card – Renewal
AED 2,200
Visa Application Fees
Residence Visa – 3 years
AED 3,750
Additional AED 1,000 on the visa fee if applying for an Investor/Partner Visa and an AED 48,000 share capital is required.
Change Status
AED 1,600
Applicable if within the UAE application only.
Medical Test
Normal (48 hours) – AED 450
VIP (within 24 hrs) – AED 750
Emirates ID – 3 years
AED 375
Company Registration
Trade Name Approval
1 business day
Shareholder’s Security Approval
5-7 business days
Trade License Issuance
3-4 business days
Establishment Card Application
1 business day
Establishment Card Issuance
5-7 business daysResidence Visa Application
Electronic Visa Application
5-7 business daysClient Arrival (if outside the UAE) | Change Status (if within the UAE)
Depends on the client | 2-3 business daysMedical Test
1 business dayMedical Test Result Release
Normal - 2 business days | VIP - within the dayEmirates ID Typing
1 business day
Obtaining Health Insurance
Depends on the client | Mandatory if applying in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Visa Approval
5-7 business days
Emirates ID Biometrics & Photo Capturing
Approx. 15-20 business days from the date of Emirates ID typing
Emirates ID Issuance
5 business daysSteps for Setting up a Business in DIFC
Based on the company details and goals, choose the type of company structure that suits you the most. Your options include:
- Limited by Shares (LTD)
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Branch Office of a Foreign Company
- Representative Office
- Continued Company
Submit the initial application for company registration to DFSA. It’s an important step that initiates the process and streamlines it. Work on your business plan and requirements while waiting for the approval.
Prepare the business plan for submission and required documents. Ensure the documents are correct and updated. A mistake in this step can cause needless delays and fines.
Submit the business plan and required documents to complete registration with the DIFC Registrar of Companies (ROC). This starts the paperwork around your company and accelerates the process.
If the application is approved, the company gets registered under the laws and terms of this global financial zone. The legal framework requires a few more steps, like opening a bank account and getting a license.
Start a corporate bank account in the name of your business. This streamlines the financial transactions and services, letting you enjoy the benefits and offers from the free zone authority and engage with diverse ecosystems directly.
Company formation is incomplete without a license. DIFC has sophisticated types of licenses explained above. See which type fits your business activities. Obtain that license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority.
Get visas for your employees or investors if required. Explore different packages and choose based on your needs, preferences, and budget. Benefit from DIFC’s Immigration and Visa Services.
Benefits in Dubai International Financial Centre
Support from regulators
Easy UAE & global expansion
100% foreign ownership
No personal income tax
Fast business setup
Dual licensing access
Leading FinTech hub
Strong legal protection
Network with top firms
Startup-friendly incentives
Service Highlights for Startups
FinTech and Innovation
DIFC supports innovation, especially in FinTech. It offers an innovation license, an innovation and AI license, venture studio license to support unique and state-of-the-art projects. Perfect for tech businesses and companies.
Media Channel
DIFC publishes its news on all its channels. It hosts many national and international business and innovation events that you can be a part of. It runs publications and podcasts as well to educate its partners and companies.
Things to Do
DIFC offers diverse and friendly infrastructure. It does not limit itself to being a dry financial zone. You can dine, shop, enjoy art, sports, and wellness services. These are things to do for some and business opportunities for others.
DIFC Diverse and Innovative Ecosystem
Innovation Hub
It is a leading space for new businesses and tech firms to grow. It connects businesses with venture capitalists, family offices, and investors. The project also runs accelerator programs to support innovation and business expansion.
DIFC Academy
It provides business and legal education. It partners with top universities to offer specialized programs. These courses help professionals gain future-ready skills to succeed in finance, law, and management.
Family Wealth Centre
It supports family businesses and wealthy individuals. It offers expert advisory services to help manage wealth across generations. Accredited advisors guide families in planning for long-term success.
DIFC Company Setup and Consultancy
Need help setting up your business? Contact IBG Consultancy to get expert assistance with company registration, licensing, and legal formalities. You can sit back and let the professionals conduct the procedures for you to get the best results!
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does the DIFC Authority play?
The DIFC Authority oversees operations, regulates service providers, and ensures businesses follow best practices in this special economic zone.
How does DIFC provide a common law framework?
DIFC follows English common law, offering legal clarity and international standards for financial services companies and businesses operating within DIFC.
Why is DIFC considered a leading financial area?
DIFC is the leading international financial area in the MEASA region, connecting markets across Africa and South Asia with global financial centres.
What support does the DIFC Innovation Hub offer?
DIFC Innovation Hub provides a collaborative space for tech companies and investment funds, helping them grow within the financial area for the Middle East.
How does DIFC support financial institutions?
Institutions in DIFC benefit from a robust regulatory framework, business-friendly policies, and a strong base in Dubai for regional and global expansion.
What types of financial services companies operate in DIFC?
DIFC is home to financial and business services, including asset management firms, financial exchange platforms, and companies conducting financial services.
How does DIFC handle commercial disputes?
DIFC Courts specialize in civil and commercial cases, ensuring the enforcement of justice in DIFC and resolving disputes for companies operating in the zone.
What are the benefits of setting up a company in DIFC?
Setting up a company in DIFC offers access to international markets, legal certainty, and proximity to leading financial centres of London and beyond.
How does DIFC support banking and financial institutions?
DIFC UAE provides a stable regulatory environment, attracting banking and economic institutions looking to expand in the MEASA region and beyond.
What makes DIFC different from other free zones?
DIFC is an onshore financial centre with an independent regulator, making it a worldwide financial area distinct from traditional free zones in the Emirate of Dubai.
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