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Home /Ae / Dubai / Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority

The Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) is one of the world's most prestigious and advanced free zones which is governed by the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority. This free zone offers businesses an ideal base for operations in the Middle East, featuring a supportive environment, world-class infrastructure, complete ownership rights, and exceptional facilities.

Whether you are a start-up or an established company, the DAFZ provides innovative solutions that attract global investors and contribute to the UAE economy.

Starting a company in DAFZ is a great opportunity, and seeking guidance from Business Setup Worldwide (BSW) can streamline your business setup process. The experts at BSW offer comprehensive company formation services, allowing you to establish your business without unnecessary stress. So, why wait? Understand the requirements for your business setup in DAFZA and get started today!

Why Choose DAFZA Company Setup?

Setting up a company in the DAFZ offers the following advantages:

100% Foreign Ownership

Establishing a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone allows you to enjoy complete foreign ownership and operate without a local sponsor.

Tax Exemptions

An additional benefit of setting up a company in DAFZA is the exemption from corporate and income taxes. These tax advantages provide you with the flexibility to conduct your business without financial concerns.

Availability of Different Licenses

Obtaining the necessary licenses is crucial when doing business in DAFZA. Given the diverse range of business opportunities from e-commerce to tourism, the licensing requirements may vary. In DAFZA, you can acquire both commercial and professional licenses. Contact Business Setup Worldwide for detailed information on the requirements for obtaining a business license.

Ease of Company Incorporation

Forming a company in DAFZA is straightforward. Simply fill out the application form with the required information, and a business advisor from Business Setup Worldwide (BSW) will contact you to guide you through the registration process. This entire procedure can be completed within 5-6 working days and requires minimal documentation.

Business Entities Available in Dubai Airport Freezone

These are the legal structures you can utilize for DAFZA company formation:

  • Free Zone Company (FZCO)
  • In DAFZ, a free zone company functions similarly to a limited liability company (LLC). It provides liability protection for its shareholders, who may be either individuals or corporations. This structure is a popular choice for businesses seeking a distinct legal presence within the free zone. It is essential to note that FZCOs are subject to the regulations of the free zone, which differ from those applicable to mainland LLCs.
  • Branch
  • If a foreign company wants to operate in the DAFZ, a branch office is a straightforward option. It allows the company to conduct business like its parent company and doesn't require the company to invest separate share capital.

    Available Business Licenses in Dubai Airport Free Zone

    The following business licenses are available in DAFZ:

    Trade License

    Trade licenses in DAFZ permit businesses to engage in trading activities, such as exporting, importing, re-exporting, distributing, and storage of certain products.

    Service License

    The service license at the Dubai Airport Free Zone allows service-based businesses to provide specified services.

    Industrial License

    The industrial license in DAFZ caters to light manufacturing, packaging, and assembly activities.

    General Trading License

    This general trading license encompasses activities such as importing, exporting, re-exporting, storing, and distributing a range of goods.

    Dual License with DET

    Businesses in DAFZ may acquire a DET license, which enables them to operate in DAFZ while also extending their reach into the Dubai Mainland.

    Talent Pass License 

    This license targets freelancers and creatives in sectors like media, technology, or education, offering visa eligibility and access to smart office amenities.

    Characteristics of Registering a Company in Dubai Airport FreeZone

    Before opting for the DAFZA business setup, it is essential to know the following requirements: Look at the below tabular for more information:

    Differentiator 

    Characteristic Trait

    Minimum Number of Shareholders

    One

    Minimum Number of Managers

    One

    Accounting and Bookkeeping Requirements

    No

    Renewal Date

    Annual Date of Incorporation

    Corporate Taxation

    0%

    Duty for Import and Export

    0%

    Ownership

    100 % foreign ownership

    Duration For Company Formation

    5-6 working days

    DAFZA facilities

    Office spaces, Warehouse or Individual space, Cold storage

    Paid Up Capital Requirement 

    No

    Uniqueness of DAFZA

    Customs duty and VAT-exempted zone, 24/7 customs operation and rapid cargo clearance

    Availability of Shelf Companies

    No

    Audit requirement

    Yes

    Requirement of Registered office 

    Yes

    Procedure for DAFZA Company Formation

    The business setup in DAFZA is more straightforward by following these essential steps:

    Business Setup
    Step 1: Complete the Application Form

    The first step in setting up a company in DAFZ is to complete the application form. The form may require business details such as your name, chosen legal structure, type of license, and initial deposit.

    Step 2: Submit Your Documents

    After completing the application form, you have to submit the essential business documents.

    Step 3: Get Your Business License

    As we discussed earlier, the DAFZA Free Zone offers different licenses, so it is best to consult experts to determine which license suits your business requirements.

    Step 4: Obtain Your Residency Visa

    After obtaining the business license, it's time to get a visa. There are multiple visas in the UAE. However, it's essential to know a little bit about the process before starting it.

    Step 5: Open Your Bank Account

    Once you have completed all the above steps, you can open a bank account in the UAE to carry out your financial transactions. Contacting a business consultant will simplify the process.

    Documents Required for DAFZ Business Formation

    These are the documents you must submit to proceed with your DAFZ business setup:

    • Business plan
    • Passport copies of owners, shareholders, and managers
    • Original bank reference letter
    • No objection certificate (NOC)
    • A letter of intent
    • Annual financial report (if available) to your business advisor
    documents-required

    Consult an Expert Now

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    Leading Industries in DAFZ:

    These are the flourishing business sectors in the Dubai Airport Free Zone.

    Logistics and freight

    Aerospace and aviation

    IT and telecommunications

    Engineering and building materials

    Food and beverage

    Jewellery and precious stones

    Luxury goods

    Why Choose BSW?

    Business Setup Worldwide (BSW) has transformed the face of over 7000 businesses within a period of 8 years. Our unparalleled expertise in company formation, taxes, accounting, and IP protections speaks for itself. Contact us today for a free consultation!

    7000 +

    Companies Incorporated

    14 +

    Years in the Market

    4 +

    Offices Worldwide

    30 +

    International Incorporation Locations

    Banking Partners

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    Client Testimonials

    I have started a logistics company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) with the guidance of Business Setup Worldwide (BSW). The experts at BSW connected with me via an online call and provided me with all the necessary information I needed for company formation. Thank you, BSW, for your quick response and for simplifying the process.

    Stella Richards

    I had been eager to start a food and beverage business in the Dubai Airport Free Zone, but the process seemed complicated and lengthy. Finally, I met the experts from BSW, who assisted me through the entire process, made the registration quick, and helped me launch my dream company.

    Evan Williams 

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why register a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone?

    Registering a company in DAFZ brings you benefits such as tax exemptions, privacy, and a stable business environment.

    What are the types of business structures in DAFZ?

    The types of business structures in DAFZ are free zone companies and branches.

    How many days does it take to open a company in the Dubai Airport Free Zone?

    The time it takes to incorporate a company varies according to your business activity. However, you can contact an expert for more assistance. 

    Is it necessary to have a business license to carry out operations in the Dubai Airport Free Zone?

    Yes, obtaining a license in DAFZ is necessary to carry out your business operations.

     

    Terms and Conditions

    *Duration is subject to the constraints of the due diligence procedure.

    **This would refer to the corporate tax of the company, wherein the operation of the company would take place outside the country of incorporation.

    ***The required documents must be provided for every individual related to the company.

    Disclaimer: The content on this website should not be taken as a contractual commitment or a warranty. Our services conditions are subject to BSW terms and conditions.