Dubai Airport Free Zone Company Formation (DAFZA)

Launch your business in Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) today and take advantage of a tax-free environment.

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is one of the most prestigious and advanced free zones in the UAE. Strategically located adjacent to Dubai International Airport, DAFZA offers world-class facilities and infrastructure to support a wide range of businesses. Established in 1996, the free zone has become a key business hub, attracting a diverse range of industries and multinational corporations.

DAFZA houses more than 3000 companies from all over the world, operating in 20+ industrial sectors. These include aviation, trading, logistics, pharmaceuticals, IT, and more. DAFZA is the parent free zone of Dubai CommerCity.

If you plan on establishing a company in Dubai, DAFZA is a great place for entrepreneurs and investors, offering a plethora of benefits.

Choosing DAFZA for business setup provides numerous benefits. Firstly, its strategic location next to one of the world’s busiest airports ensures seamless logistics and connectivity. This proximity facilitates easy import and export of goods, making it an ideal choice for businesses involved in trading, logistics, and supply chain management.

Additionally, DAFZA offers a business-friendly environment with 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and no import or export duties, significantly reducing operational costs and enhancing profitability. DAFZA boasts a highly developed infrastructure with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring businesses have access to everything they need to operate efficiently.

The free zone provides a secure and transparent regulatory framework, ensuring businesses can operate with confidence. Furthermore, DAFZA’s comprehensive support services, including administrative assistance and business development support, help businesses thrive and grow in the competitive market.

  • 100% foreign ownership 
  • Tax-free environment
  • Flexible licensing options
  • No currency restrictions 
  • Duty-free business environment
  • Visa sponsorship
  • Full repatriation of capital and profits
  • Access to Dubai International Airport
  • World-class infrastructure
  • Low freight charges
  • 3-year residence visa in UAE
  • Freehold offices

Types of Licenses in Dubai Airport Free Zone

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) offers the following types of licenses for businesses:

  • Trading License: Allows companies to engage in the import, export, and distribution of specified goods.
  • Commercial License: Permits the trading of goods and services within DAFZA.
  • Industrial License: Authorizes manufacturing and processing activities within the free zone.
  • Service License: Enables businesses to provide services like consulting, IT, and other professional services.
  • E-Commerce License: Facilitates online trading and e-commerce activities.
  • Talent Pass License: Allows individuals to operate as freelance professionals in various fields.
  • Dual Licence with DET: Enables companies to apply for the license without physical office space and operate both within DAFZA and in mainland Dubai.
dubai airport free zone

Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority supports various kinds of business activities. Here is a list of DAFZA activity list:

  • Aerospace & Aviation
  • Information Technology
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Logistics and Freight
  • Telecommunications
  • Electronics
  • Food and Beverage
  • Manufacturing
  • Warehousing and Storage
  • Transportation
  • Jewerly
  • Precious Stones
  • Luxury Items
  • General Trading
  • Retail
  • Cosmetics
  • Engineering and Construction
  • Professional Services

Facilities Offered At DAFZA

Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority offers a comprehensive range of facilities to support startups and businesses in the area.

  • DAFZA Industrial Park: Offers dedicated facilities for light and medium industrial activities with advanced infrastructure. Flexible units available for a range of businesses.
  • LIGHT INDUSTRIAL UNITS (LIU): Designed for manufacturing and assembly processes with customizable spaces. Access to high quality thermal insulated build units for storage and distribution.
  • Flexi-desk spaces: Flexible and affordable desk spaces ideal for startups and small businesses.
  • Executive offices: Fully furnished and serviced office spaces equipped with modern amenities.
  • Storage areas: Secure and accessible storage solutions for various types of goods.
  • Warehouses: High-quality warehousing facilities with easy access to the airport and major transport links.

Types of Legal Entities in DAFZA

Three types of business types/ legal entities are allowed to establish in the Dubai Airport Free Zone. These include:

  1. Public Limited Company: A legal entity that can offer shares to the public and is listed on a stock exchange. There is no limit of shareholders.
  2. Free Zone Company: A limited liability company established in the free zone with one or more shareholders. It has a minimum share capital of AED 1.
  3. Branch of a Foreign/Local Company: An extension of an existing company established outside or within the UAE. No share capital is required.

How to Set Up a Business in Dubai Airport Free Zone (Steps)

Choose your Business Activity

The first step is to choose a business activity that you want to undertake in DAFZA. You can choose from a range of business activities allowed in the free zone.

Select a License Type and Trade Name

Choose the appropriate license based on your business activity. Also choose a trade name for your company and register it with the free zone authority.

Submit Your License Application

Complete and submit the business license application form. Provide all necessary documents including passport copies, business plan, and other relevant paperwork.

Get Initial Approval and Register Your Company

Once you get the initial approval from the free zone authority, complete the business registration process.

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum required capital according to your legal entity.

Office Lease

Sign the lease agreement for office space, warehouse or shared flexi desks. DAFZA has 0% VAT on products and services.

Acquire Your License

Once all formalities are completed, receive your business license and commence operations.

Skip the hassle of the business setup, and let us handle all your requirements to make your startup dreams come true!

Solutions FZCO is your trusted partner for company setup in DAFZA. Our extensive local contacts and deep understanding of the regulatory environment enable us to expedite your license and approval processes efficiently.

We provide end-to-end support, from initial consultation to complete setup, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to helping your business succeed in one of the most dynamic and strategic free zones in the UAE.

dafza

Frequently Asked Questions

The minimum share capital for a company in DAFZA is AED 1.

DAFZA is located next to the Dubai International Airport, near the Damascus Street.

Yes, DAFZA offers a Dual Licence with DET that allows companies to operate in DAFZA and mainland as well.