IFZA Freezone Company Formation

What is IFZA Freezone Company Formation in Dubai?

Dubai’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is a vibrant investment hub within Dubai Silicon Oasis. Established through a co-branding agreement with the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), IFZA encourages international investment and fuels the UAE’s economic growth. On registering, you’ll receive a trade license that allows you to operate in a tax-free environment with 100 % foreign ownership. IFZA’s flexible regulations let startups, SMEs and multinationals set up with minimal bureaucracy and no requirement for a local sponsor. The freezone’s location in Silicon Oasis gives you access to high-tech infrastructure and a collaborative community. IFZA companies can also do business with mainland entities, operate internationally, or expand into other UAE freezones.

Benefits of IFZA Freezone Company Formation

IFZA is designed to empower entrepreneurs and investors.

Complete Foreign Ownership & Profit Repatriation

You retain 100 % ownership and can remit profits and capital without restrictions. This financial autonomy is rare in many jurisdictions.

Zero Corporate & Personal Income Tax

Enjoy complete exemption from corporate and personal income taxes and avoid import/export duties. IFZA is also exempt from VAT in many cases, further reducing your operating cost.

No Minimum Share Capital & No NOC

Unlike some jurisdictions, IFZA doesn’t require paid-up share capital or a No-Objection Certificate from your current visa sponsor.

Combine Multiple Business Activities

IFZA lets you mix up to seven activities on one license. You could, for example, sell products, offer consulting services and run e-commerce under one umbrella.

Strategic Location & Modern Facilities

The freezone sits in Dubai Silicon Oasis, giving you access to world-class office space, logistics parks and technology infrastructure. It’s an ideal base for serving GCC and global markets.

Limited Liability & Flexible Visa Packages

Whether you form a company or open a branch, your personal assets stay protected. IFZA offers flexible visa packages for investors and employees.

IFZA Freezone Business Activities

One of IFZA’s biggest advantages is the scope of permitted activities.

Types of Legal Structures / Entities

IFZA accommodates two main legal entity types, each designed to balance flexibility with investor protection.

Limited Liability Company (LLC / FZCO)

A freezone company (often called FZCO) is a separate legal entity whose liabilities are distinct from the shareholders’ personal assets. Shareholders’ liability is limited to their investment. This structure allows multiple shareholders.

Branch Office

A branch is an extension of an existing foreign or local company. It carries out the same activities as the parent and does not create a new legal entity; profits and liabilities remain with the parent company. Branches are popular among multinationals looking to enter the UAE market without altering their corporate structure.

Types of Licenses Available

Selecting the right license is crucial to operating legally in IFZA.

Professional License

This license is geared toward individuals and firms that sell knowledge or expertise rather than physical products. Holders can bill clients for intellectual or talent-based services and operate without a local sponsor. This license is perfect for freelancers and consultancy firms seeking 100 % foreign ownership and tax-free revenues.

Commercial License

Companies engaged in trading physical goods whether importing, exporting, distributing or wholesaling need a commercial license. This includes classic bricks-and-mortar wholesalers as well as e-commerce merchants who handle inventory. With this license, you can bring products into the UAE duty-free and re-export globally.

Industrial License

This license authorises light manufacturing, assembly, packaging and processing of goods. Businesses import raw materials and produce finished products for local or international markets. IFZA’s industrial facilities offer flexible warehousing and streamlined export processes.

Holding License

A holding license is tailored for businesses that own or manage assets rather than trade or manufacture. This structure offers investors full control and profit repatriation with zero corporate tax. It’s particularly useful for managing multiple subsidiaries or investing across diverse sectors.

Consultancy & Service License

Falling under the broader professional category, this license suits firms offering specialist advice. It allows you to combine service-oriented activities with related commercial operations. This flexibility is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to scale service offerings without needing multiple licenses.

Trading & General Trading License

A trading license typically covers a defined group of products, such as electronics or fashion. A general trading license goes further, permitting the sale of a wide range of unrelated goods. Both license types enable duty-free imports and allow you to distribute goods across the UAE and beyond.

Industrial & Manufacturing License

This license covers companies that import raw materials, manufacture goods and then export or sell them. With this license, companies can take advantage of IFZA’s purpose-built industrial facilities and streamlined customs processes, keeping operating costs low and productivity high.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Here’s how DSA transforms the intricate process of company formation into a simple, manageable journey.

1. Select Activity & Reserve Trade Name

Choose up to seven activities that align with your operations. Check availability and reserve your preferred trade name with IFZA.

2. Choose License Package & Visa Quota

Decide whether you need a Flexi-Desk, dedicated office or private office. Packages range from zero-visa to multi-visa options.

3. Prepare & Submit Documents

• For individuals: Passport copies, entry stamp/UAE visa (if applicable), Emirates ID (if available), passport photos and proof of address.

• For corporate shareholders: Certificate of incorporation, board resolution authorizing company setup, Memorandum & Articles of Association and directors’ passports.

• Optional: CVs, business plan and a summary of activities.

4. Application & Approvals

IFZA reviews your documents. They may perform due diligence and request clarifications. Approvals typically occur within a few working days and you’ll receive your trade license in around 4–6 working days.

5. Receive Trade License & Company Documents

Upon approval, you’ll receive:

• Trade License – authorizes your activities.

• Certificate of Formation – proof of incorporation.

• Share Certificates – evidence of ownership.

• Memorandum of Association – your company’s governing document.

• Company Stamps & Establishment Card (if visa packages are included).

6. Residence Visa & Emirates ID (Optional)

If you choose a visa-entitled package, we:

• Apply for an establishment card (5–7 working days).

• Submit visa application (e-visa issued in 4–5 days).

• Arrange medical tests, biometrics and Emirates ID collection, guiding you through status changes and timelines.

• Assist with family or employee visas if needed

7. Open Corporate Bank Account & Set Up Office

We liaise with our network of banking partners to open your corporate account quickly. DSA also offers flexi-desks, shared offices and private suites within IFZA or other Dubai business centres, ensuring you have a work space that fits your budget and business style.

8. Ongoing Compliance & Renewals

Our support doesn’t stop at incorporation. We provide annual license renewal reminders, handle PRO services, arrange visa renewals, and assist with bookkeeping, VAT registration and corporate tax compliance.

Documents Required

IFZA requires a minimal yet precise set of documents.

Passport Copies
Clear, colored scans of each shareholder’s passport.
Passport-Size Photos
White background, shoulders and head visible; avoid jewelry and glasses.
Proof of Address
Utility bill or bank statement not older than three months.
Latest UAE Entry Stamp or Visa
For shareholders already in the UAE.

Emirates ID Copy
If applicable.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Professional résumé detailing experience.
Business Plan/Activity Summary
Recommended to outline your proposed activities and market strategy.
Corporate Documentation (for corporate shareholders)
Certificate of incorporation, board resolution approving the formation, Memorandum & Articles of Association and a Power of Attorney authorizing the individual to sign on behalf of the company.

How DSA Helps

Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA) simplifies every step of your UAE business formation journey from initial planning to long-term operational support. We’re not just consultants; we’re your on-ground execution partners with deep expertise in UAE legal, regulatory, and commercial frameworks.

Business Planning & Jurisdiction Comparison

Trade Name Reservation & Licensing Approvals

Legal Documentation, Drafting & Translation

Workspace & Tenancy Solutions

Bank Account Opening & Compliance Setup

Visa & Immigration Processing

PRO & Legal Documentation Services

Post-Incorporation Support & Growth Enablement

Why Choose Us?

At Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA), we go beyond basic company registration. We provide strategic guidance, legal clarity, and operational support tailored for global entrepreneurs and investors entering the UAE market. Here’s why clients from over 30 countries trust us to build their presence in the Emirates.

Extensive Experience

End-to-End Service

Transparent Pricing

Global Perspective

Personalized Approach

Comprehensive Network

Frequently Asked Questions

To address common concerns, here are expanded FAQs.

The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is a freezone in Dubai’s Silicon Oasis. It offers 100 % foreign ownership, full profit repatriation and zero corporate or personal income tax. It encourages businesses of all sizes and industries.

DSA typically secures your trade license within four to six working days. Name reservation happens on Day 2, and documents are submitted by Day 3. If visas are involved, add one to two weeks for establishment card and e-visa processing.

Not initially. Shareholders can sign documents remotely and provide notarized signatures. However, if you are applying for visas, you’ll need to enter the UAE for medical tests, biometrics and Emirates ID processing.

IFZA doesn’t mandate a minimum paid-up share capital. You only need to pay your licensing and visa fees. Some banks may request a minimum balance for opening an account, but that varies by institution.

Yes. IFZA permits adding or modifying activities upon application. Combining up to seven activities under one license is allowed, giving you flexibility to expand.

A freezone company cannot trade directly on the mainland without a distributor or service agent. However, IFZA companies can open branch offices on the mainland or enter into agreements with mainland distributors.

IFZA distinguishes itself through lower cost packages (starting around AED 12,900), quick setup times, the ability to combine multiple activities, minimal documentation and location within Silicon Oasis. Some freezones (e.g., DMCC, ADGM) cater to specific industries or have higher fees; others may require annual audits or larger office spaces.

No. IFZA does not impose mandatory annual audits on most companies. However, for good corporate governance and banking relationships, voluntary audits are recommended.

Freezone companies can own properties within designated freezone areas. If you want to own real estate outside the freezone or invest in off-plan projects, there are structures such as SPVs or holding companies.Freezone companies can own properties within designated freezone areas. If you want to own real estate outside the freezone or invest in off-plan projects, there are structures such as SPVs or holding companies.

Once your company is licensed, you can apply to open a corporate bank account. Some banks require the shareholder’s personal presence for compliance interviews; others accept power of attorney. There are banks based on your business activity, shareholder nationality and banking preferences.