Connect Your Business to the World from Dubai Airport Free Zone

Set up in DAFZ and operate just steps away from Dubai International Airport — ideal for trading, logistics, and high-speed global commerce.

Key Facts about setting a company in Dubai Free Zone

Setup from

Registration from

Bank Account

Residence Visas for

5,555 AED

5 DAYS

GUARANTEED

2 YEARS

Table of Contents

DAFZ sits immediately adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB), making it a premier destination for companies in trading, logistics, aviation, pharmaceutical, and high-speed commerce. It offers 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal taxes, and on-site customs clearance to expedite imports/exports. Businesses benefit from a range of office spaces (executive suites, warehouse units) and comprehensive visa and immigration services. DAFZ is especially appealing for firms that require fast global connectivity and streamlined trade processes.

Why Set Up in DAFZ? 

✅  Strategic location next to Dubai International Airport (DXB)

✅  One of the most prestigious and secure Free Zones in the UAE

✅  100% foreign ownership & 0% personal and corporate tax

✅  Access to over 2.5 billion consumers via air routes

✅  Fast-track customs clearance & logistics support

✅  Ideal for trading, aviation, tech, pharma, and light manufacturing

✅  Modern office spaces, executive suites, and warehouse facilities

✅  Hassle-free visa and immigration services

We handle it all – so you don’t have to.

What Business Activities Can You Do in DAFZ?

DAFZ supports a wide range of business activities, making it perfect for companies that need fast access to global markets and efficient trade operations.

  • Air Cargo & Logistics: Manage air freight, warehousing, and distribution with DAFZ’s proximity to Dubai International Airport.
  • Pharmaceuticals & Medical Supply: Import, export, and distribute medical products and pharmaceuticals, supported by DAFZ’s logistics infrastructure.
  • Import/Export: Efficiently trade goods globally with streamlined customs and logistics support.
  • IT & Electronics Trading: Trade electronic products and IT services, leveraging Dubai’s position as a global tech hub.
  • Light Industrial Activities: Engage in small-scale manufacturing and assembly in DAFZ’s state-of-the-art facilities.
  • Telecommunications & Equipment: Operate in the telecom sector, manufacturing or providing services with top infrastructure.
  • Consulting & Service-based Businesses: Provide expert consulting and services in various fields with access to global clients.
  • Market Research & Corporate Services: Conduct market research and offer corporate services, tapping into DAFZ’s international business network.

Steps to Start a Business in DMCC UAE

1. Choose Your Business Activity and License

Decide on the nature of your business (e.g., trading, service, industrial, e-commerce) and select the appropriate license type that matches your planned activities.

DAFZA offers various licenses such as trade, service, industrial, and general trading licenses.

Determine the legal entity that suits your needs:

  • Free Zone Company (FZCO): Limited liability, 2–50 shareholders.
  • Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Single shareholder.
  • Branch Office: For existing foreign or UAE companies.
  • Subsidiary: 100% owned by a foreign company.

No minimum share capital is required for most structures, but some may require a nominal amount (e.g., AED 1,000 for FZCO).

Choose from DAFZA’s range of office solutions: smart desks, private offices, executive suites, or warehouses, depending on your business needs and budget.

Leasing office space is mandatory to obtain a license.

Prepare and submit the required documents:

  • Business plan (one-page outline)
  • Passport copies and photos of all shareholders and managers
  • Bank statement (last six months) and bank reference letter for shareholders
  • No-Objection Certificate (NOC) if you are currently employed in the UAE
  • Corporate documents for company shareholders (e.g., certificate of incorporation).

Submit your application online via the DAFZA website or in person

DAFZA reviews your application and documents. If approved, you receive initial approval to proceed.

Finalize your office or warehouse lease with DAFZA.

Pay relevant setup and licensing fees:

  • Business License: AED 15,000 (up to 3 activities)
  • Establishment Card: AED 2,000
  • Registration Fee (one-time): AED 7,000
  • Office Space: Starts at AED 37,500 per year
  • UAE Residency Visa (if needed): AED 4,300.

After completing payment and signing your lease, DAFZA will issue your business license.
Next, register your company with relevant authorities such as the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Once you have your license and incorporation documents, open a corporate bank account with a UAE-based bank to begin financial operations.

DAFZ (Dubai Airport Free Zone) Residency and Visas

One of the key benefits of setting up your business in DAFZ is obtaining UAE residency for you and your family. The free zone offers multiple visa options for business owners, employees, and their dependents, giving you the freedom to live and work in Dubai.

Types of Visas Available in DAFZ

DAFZ provides several visa options to match your specific business role and family requirements within the free zone.

Investor/ Partner Visa

For shareholders or owners of DAFZ-registered companies. Grants residency rights, typically valid for 2–3 years, and renewable.

Employment Visa

For employees sponsored by DAFZ companies. Also valid for 1–3 years, depending on contract and free zone policy.

Dependent Visa

Allows family members (spouse, children) of visa holders to reside in Dubai. The main visa holder must meet income and accommodation requirements.

Freelancer/ Talent Pass Visa

DAFZ offers a Talent Pass for freelancers in fields like arts, culture, media, and technology, providing residency and access to the free zone’s ecosystem.

Application Steps

The visa application process in DAFZ follows a clear sequence that takes you from initial entry permit to full UAE residency.

  1. Obtain an Entry Permit: A temporary visa (valid for 60 days) to enter the UAE and begin the residency process.
  2. Medical Fitness Test: Mandatory blood test and chest X-ray at an approved UAE medical center.
  3. Emirates ID Registration: Apply for the Emirates ID after passing the medical test.
  4. Visa Stamping: Residency visa is stamped in your passport, either in-country or upon arrival.
  5. Apply for Dependent Visas: Once the main visa is issued, family sponsorship is possible.

Key Requirements

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Business license from DAFZ
  • Medical fitness certificate
  • Proof of investment (for investor visas)
  • Employment contract (for employee visas)
  • Office lease agreement in DAFZ

DAFZ Residency and Visa Pricing Table

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the main costs you can expect when applying for DAFZ residency and visa services, including fees for different visa types and required documentation.

ItemCost (AED)Notes
Investor/Partner Visa4,000–6,000Per person, valid 2–3 years
Employment Visa4,000–6,000Per person, valid 2–3 years
Dependent Visa (Spouse/Child)3,000–4,000Per dependent, valid 1–2 years
Entry Permit (60 days)1,000Included in visa package
Medical Fitness Test300–700Mandatory for all applicants
Emirates ID (per year)370Mandatory for all residents
Talent Pass License (Freelancer)7,500–9,500Annual fee, includes visa eligibility

Additional Details:

  • Costs shown are estimates and can change depending on which service provider you choose, how quickly you need the processing completed, and any extra administrative charges that may apply during your application.
  • Remember that office lease payments and business license fees are not included in these visa costs but are required expenses if you’re applying for visas tied to your DAFZ company registration.
  • If you need your visa processed faster than the standard timeline, expedited processing services are available for an extra charge, which can significantly reduce waiting times.

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