For many people around the world, Dubai is Attractive destination for emigration - not only because of the sunny climate and international quality of life, but also because of the excellent economic opportunities. If you are planning to emigrate to Dubai and start a business there, the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is one of the best options available to you.
Especially when taking your first steps in a new country, it is helpful to have a experienced contact person like Dubai Emigration at your side to guide you through the process. As a multiple award-winning IFZA partner, we accompany you from the initial idea to successful expansion. In this blog post, you will find out why IFZA Dubai is an ideal free zone for international investors, what advantages it offers and how you can set up your business there with minimal effort.
The most important facts in brief
- IFZA Dubai is one of the most attractive free zones for international investors thanks to flexible licensing options, modern infrastructure and 100% foreign ownership.
- Companies benefit from tax advantages such as exemption from corporation and income tax subject to certain profit limits and unrestricted repatriation of capital and profits.
- The free trade zone offers various types of licences that enable a wide range of business opportunities in areas such as trade, services and holding companies.
- The strategic location in the Dubai Silicon Oasis allows access to international markets and important trading centres.
- The company formation process is simple and efficient, with minimal documentation requirements and fast approval times.
- IFZA offers additional services such as infrastructure, Real estate- and networking solutions to help companies grow and expand.
Overview of IFZA Dubai
IFZA Dubai offers you a unique business ecosystem structure specifically designed for international investors. The tax-free regulations and the waiver of a minimum capital contribution make the Founding your company in the IFZA particularly attractive. You benefit from 100% foreign ownership, unlimited capital and profit repatriation and the option to choose between several licence packages, including 3- and 5-year licences.
In IFZA you can set up a company without being there in person. Trading, service and holding companies are among the many business activities supported. Your company can be both within the Freezone as well as with companies on the mainland and even serve international markets.
IFZA is strategically located in the Dubai Silicon Oasis, providing access to a population of around 98 million in the region. With low operating costs and a wide range of services, IFZA is one of the most cost-efficient free zones in the United Arab Emirates.
Advantages of the IFZA free trade zone
The IFZA free zone in Dubai offers investors and entrepreneurs numerous advantages. The most important of these include tax relief, the possibility of full foreign ownership and a favourable geographical location.
Tax advantages and economic incentives
In the IFZA, companies are fully exempt from corporation and income tax as long as profits remain below AED 375,000. Above this threshold, the Tax only 9%. There are no import and export duties within the free trade zone, making trade simple and cost-effective. Profits and capital can be repatriated abroad at 100%, creating economic flexibility. These tax conditions make IFZA one of the most attractive locations in the UAE.
Complete foreign ownership
Entrepreneurs own their businesses in IFZA at 100% without the need for a local partner. This arrangement gives you control over all business decisions and allows for maximum independence. Unlike other forms of business, no participation by UAE nationals is required, which keeps your business interests secure.
Strategic location in the UAE
IFZA is located in the Dubai Silicon Oasis, a strategic hub with proximity to international trade and logistics centres. The zone provides access to around two-thirds of the world's population within an eight-hour flight. This geographical location supports easy access to key markets in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Companies also benefit from Dubai's modern infrastructure, which facilitates global business expansion.
Licence types and business options
IFZA Dubai offers a variety of licence types and business options tailored to different business needs. From professional services to commercial activities, IFZA enables flexible and efficient business operations in the United Arab Emirates.
Professional and commercial licences
IFZA distinguishes between several main licence types, including professional and commercial licences:
| Licence type | What is allowed? | Who is it suitable for? | Special features |
| Professional licence | Services such as consulting, technology, transport, manufacturing | Service companies, consultants | For activities that require specialised knowledge |
| Commercial licence | Trade, import, export, storage of goods | Retail companies, e-commerce | Trade in various product groups possible; no additional licences required, provided they comply with the law |
Opportunities for branch offices and start-ups
IFZA offers foreign companies the opportunity to open branches. Your branch office must carry out activities in line with your parent company. This facilitates the expansion of your existing business into the dynamic economy of the UAE.
Start-ups benefit from special advantages, including flexible licence packages with up to three business activities under a single licence. Full foreign ownership and transparent fee structures make starting a business straightforward. With timely licensing procedures, you can start your business within days without compromising on quality and efficiency.
Steps to setting up a business in IFZA
At IFZA Dubai, you can set up your company efficiently and with minimal effort. The process is systematic and involves a few key steps that allow for quick company registration.
Documentation and requirements
In order for your company to be registered in the IFZA, certain documents are required. These include
- A copy of your passport, valid for at least six months.
- Two passport photos with a white background.
- A copy of a valid visaif available.
- A business plan (for specific licence types).
Registration fees depend on the type of business and the licence selected. Minimum capital requirements vary depending on the business structure you choose, such as sole proprietorships or limited liability companies (LLC).
Authorisation process and licensing
Once the documents have been submitted, IFZA Dubai checks the documentation. This approval process usually takes three to five working days.
As soon as the documents have been approved, you will receive the corresponding company licence. The most frequently requested licence types include trading, service and general trading licences.
Optionally, you can also register your company for VAT as part of the process. All steps are quick and efficient, so you'll be up and running within ten days.
Special services and ecosystem
IFZA Dubai offers an efficient and diverse business ecosystem specifically designed to help companies grow in the United Arab Emirates. With world-class training programmes, social initiatives and strategic networking opportunities, IFZA remains a leading player in Dubai's economic development.
Virtual workstations and networking options
Although IFZA does not offer virtual workspaces, there are numerous physical infrastructure options available to you. Strategically planned events and business meetings facilitate the development of valuable networks. Regular events, including networking events and after-work activities, promote communication and exchange between companies operating in the IFZA Free Zone.
Real estate and support services
At IFZA Business Park, you will find strategically located property solutions that are tailored to the requirements of modern companies. IFZA Property offers flexible office space, conference rooms and shared spaces that are also suitable for short-term use. Health insurance packages and individual Licence options through IFZA Life make your business operations even easier. Customised offers ensure that your expansion plans can be successfully implemented.
Challenges and legal requirements
Setting up a company in IFZA Dubai requires compliance with specific legal requirements and at the same time offers attractive opportunities for expansion-oriented companies. Compliance with regulatory requirements and provisions is crucial for long-term success. If you would like support with legal questions or uncertainties, you can contact Dubai Expatriates - here you will receive practical help and answers to your questions.
Restrictions on business activities
The IFZA allows you to combine various business activities under one licence, e.g. trading, service and consulting activities. However, specific restrictions apply to certain sectors, in particular banking and insurance. Such activities require additional licences or may be completely excluded. In principle, your company may carry out its activities within the free trade zone and in international trade. Separate licences are required for business on the mainland.
Capital requirements and compliance
Capital requirements are minimal or not specified in the IFZA, which offers you a high degree of financial flexibility. You do not need to pay in share capital or provide proof of capital. Nevertheless, it is essential to strictly adhere to the IFZA compliance regulations. This includes submitting documents on time, archiving business documents and reporting significant changes. Non-compliance can lead to legal consequences, which can have a significant impact on business activities.
🚀 Start your tax-optimised company in Dubai now - with Dubai-auswandern, the original from Germany.
Dubai Emigration is your reliable partner for a legally compliant, fast and fully supported Company formation in IFZA Freezone - including visa, bank account & personal contact person in German.
✅ IFZA Goldpartner 2024
✅ 700+ successful start-ups
✅ Excellent rating & well-known from TV and press
In just 3 steps to your new life & business in Dubai:
- Found a company - 100 % Property, minimum taxes
- Secure residence - income tax free in the UAE
- Log off home - Legally out of tax liability
📞 Get free advice now:
We'll show you how to get out of your home country with legal certainty, massively reduce your tax burden and your company in Dubai in a few days start - without bureaucratic stress.
👉 Request an initial consultation now - limited places every month!
Conclusion
IFZA Dubai offers you an ideal platform to establish your business in a dynamic and growth-orientated environment. With attractive tax benefits, flexible licence options and a modern infrastructure, you can build your business efficiently and cost-effectively.
If you need help getting started, Dubai Emigration is your experienced partner - from planning to successful implementation.
FAQs
How does the company formation process work at IFZA Dubai?
Setting up a company is digital and straightforward. You usually need a copy of your passport, passport photos and - depending on the licence type - a business plan. Once the documents have been submitted, approval usually only takes a few working days. Dubai Emigration offers you support every step of the way.
What advantages does IFZA offer compared to other Freezoness in the Emirates?
IFZA impresses with flexible licence models, 100% foreign ownership, low start-up costs and a modern infrastructure. The fast approval processes and the possibility of combining several business areas under one licence are particularly attractive.
How do I open a bank account for my business in IFZA?
After successfully founding a company, you can Business account at a local or international bank. The most important documents are the company licence and the incorporation documents. Dubai Expatriates will help you choose the right bank and guide you through the entire process.
What does "International Freezone" mean for IFZA?
IFZA is an international free trade zone that enables foreign investors to set up companies with 100% foreign ownership. It offers tax advantages, flexible business models and access to global markets - ideal for international expansion.
Which Freezoness are particularly suitable for start-ups?
IFZA is particularly popular with start-ups as it offers flexible licence packages, low entry costs and fast start-up processes. Other Freezones in the UAE can be interesting depending on the industry and business model - individual advice helps with the selection.
