Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Financial services, fintech — Dubai, UAE
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Overview
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is an independent financial jurisdiction with its own common law courts and regulatory framework. Home to over 4,000 registered entities, it serves as a global hub for banking, insurance, asset management, fintech, and professional services. DIFC's legal infrastructure and zero percent tax on corporate income attract major global financial institutions.
Business Activities (262)
The following 262 business activities are available in DIFC, organized by category.
Consulting (39)
E-Commerce (10)
Finance (25)
Freelance (16)
Legal (15)
Professional Services (21)
Technology (41)
Trading (95)
| Full Name | Dubai International Financial Centre | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abbreviation | DIFC | ||||||
| Emirate | Dubai | ||||||
| Specialty | Financial services, fintech | ||||||
| Notable | Independent legal system (common law) | ||||||
| Website | www.difc.ae |
| License Fee (from) | AED 12,000 |
|---|---|
| Visa Cost Range | AED 6,000 - AED 8,000 |
| Total Year 1 (from) | AED 30,000 |
| Total Year 1 (to) | AED 80,000 |
License Packages & Costs
| Package | License Type | License Fee | Visa Cost (pp) | Visas | Office | Total Year 1 | Renewal Year 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIFC Innovation License | Professional | AED 12,000 | AED 6,000 | 1 | Flexi Desk | AED 23,000 | AED 17,000 |
| DIFC Commercial License | Commercial | AED 25,000 | AED 7,000 | 3 | Office | AED 77,000 | AED 72,000 |
| DIFC Financial License | Professional | AED 50,000 | AED 7,000 | 5 | Office | AED 127,000 | AED 117,000 |
Other Free Zones in Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to set up a company in DIFC?
The cheapest package at DIFC starts from AED 23,000 for Year 1, which includes the license fee, visa allocation, and office solution. Packages range up to AED 127,000 depending on office type and visa quota.
What business activities can I do in DIFC?
DIFC offers 262 licensed business activities across 8 categories, including Consulting, E-Commerce, Finance, Freelance. Each activity requires a specific license type (commercial, professional, or industrial).
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in DIFC?
Yes. All UAE free zones, including DIFC, allow 100% foreign ownership. You do not need a local UAE partner or sponsor to set up your company.
How long does it take to get a license in DIFC?
Most free zones complete the licensing process within 3-7 business days once all documents are submitted. DIFC may offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
What visas can I get through DIFC?
Visa costs at DIFC range from AED 6,000 to AED 8,000 per person. You can sponsor yourself, employees, and dependents through your company. Investor visas (3 years) and employment visas (2-3 years) are the most common options.
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