Set Up a Company in Dubai International Financial Centre
The Middle East's leading international financial centre. English common law jurisdiction. Home to 4,000+ companies.
Dubai International Financial Centre
DIFC Authority
- Downtown Dubai, Dubai
- Regulated by DIFC Authority
- Established 2004
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose DIFC?
DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) is the Middle East's premier international financial hub. Unlike other UAE free zones, DIFC operates under English common law — a unique legal framework that provides international investors with familiar legal protections. The centre hosts over 4,000 companies including leading global banks, asset managers, and fintech firms.
English Common Law
Unique jurisdiction operating under English common law — not Sharia law.
Premier Financial Hub
Middle East's leading international financial centre.
Regulated Environment
World-class financial regulation by DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority).
Premium Location
Iconic towers in Downtown Dubai — prestigious address.
Innovation Hub
Home to DIFC Innovation Hub — leading fintech accelerator.
Global Network
Gateway to $15+ trillion of regional wealth and investments.
Important: What DIFC companies cannot do
- High cost — significantly more expensive than other free zones
- Regulated activities require DFSA licence — complex approval process
- Not suitable for non-financial businesses
- Longer setup time due to regulatory requirements
DIFC Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 80,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 52,000. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in DIFC
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from DIFC's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. In-person submission required.
Receive Initial Approval
DIFC reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 7 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 7-30 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through DIFC
Visa Quota
With a DIFC licence you can sponsor up to 500 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 2 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through DIFC costs approximately AED 5,000 – 8,000 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.