Key Facts about setting a company in Dubai Free Zone
Setup from
5,555 AED
Registration from
5 DAYS
Bank Account
GUARANTEED
Residence Visas for
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? BOX
✅ 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? NORMAL
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 DAFZ (Dubai Airport Free Zone)
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.
2. Select Your Company Structure
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).
3. Pick Your Office or Warehouse Space
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.
4. Submit Your Application
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.
5. Application Review and Initial Approval
DAFZA reviews your application and documents. If approved, you receive initial approval to proceed.
6. Sign Lease Agreement and Pay Fees
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.
7. Collect Your License & Open a Corporate Bank Account
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 NORMAL
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
Required for businesses involved in the trade of goods, including import, export, and re-export, ensuring compliance with trade regulations.
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
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. Application Review and Initial Approval
DAFZA reviews your application and documents. If approved, you receive initial approval to proceed.
6. 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.
Item | Cost (AED) | Notes |
Investor/Partner Visa | 4,000–6,000 | Per person, valid 2–3 years |
Employment Visa | 4,000–6,000 | Per person, valid 2–3 years |
Dependent Visa (Spouse/Child) | 3,000–4,000 | Per dependent, valid 1–2 years |
Entry Permit (60 days) | 1,000 | Included in visa package |
Medical Fitness Test | 300–700 | Mandatory for all applicants |
Emirates ID (per year) | 370 | Mandatory for all residents |
Talent Pass License (Freelancer) | 7,500–9,500 | Annual 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.
Why Choose MenaHerald for Your DMCC Company Formation?
Let MenaHerald take the hassle out of your company setup.
We offer expert guidance, assist with complete documentation, and streamline your DMCC registration — from selecting the right license to arranging office space and processing visas.
Why Choose MenaHerald?
✓ End-to-end company formation
✓ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
✓ Ongoing support for renewals and compliance
Get Started Today — Speak to a DMCC Specialist Now!
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