Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) License
A regulated license that lets businesses operate with full ownership, investor protection, and access to international markets.
Why Choose a DIFC License?
Operating in Dubai’s premier financial hub gives your business access to a fully regulated environment with international credibility.
Key advantages:
100% foreign ownership, no local sponsor required
Clear compliance standards
Business flexibility
Easy reach to international markets, investors, and networks
Platform to scale operations, launch services, and expand regionally
DIFC License Categories
Dubai International Financial Centre classifies businesses into structured license categories, each tailored to the type and scale of financial activity. Understanding these categories is crucial for a successful DIFC company formation.
Key Considerations for Choosing the Right Category
Ensure the category covers all intended financial or professional services.
Determine client type.
Verify that your firm meets the minimum threshold for the chosen category.
Consider scalability, potential activity expansion, and future upgrades.
Working with a licensed DIFC consultancy can help align your business plan with DFSA expectations and avoid delays during difc company formation.
Required Documents
Documentation differs for individual and corporate shareholders, and some categories may need additional regulatory approvals.
Individual Shareholders
Passport copy
Digital passport-sized photo
UAE residence visa (if applicable)
Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
Corporate Shareholders
Certificate of Incorporation
Certificate of Incumbency or equivalent
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Board Resolution with notarised Power of Attorney
Certain financial service categories (1 to 3) require DFSA-specific approvals and financial statements. The DIFC authority may also request extra documentation depending on business category, shareholder type, or activity scope.
/HOW IT WORKS/
Step-by-Step DIFC Company Setup
01
Select the Appropriate License Category
Identify the correct category (Category 1–5 or relevant subcategory under Category 3) based on your proposed activities. This step determines capital requirements, compliance obligations, and whether DFSA authorisation is required.
Careful selection at this stage prevents delays or costly amendments later in the DIFC company formation process.
02
Define Business Activities and Structure
03
Submit Application and Supporting Documents
04
Undergo Regulatory Review and Approval
05
Complete Office Lease and Registration
06
Receive License and Incorporation Certificate
07
Process Residency Visas
08
Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Cost Overview of DIFC Company Formation
Setting up within the Dubai International Financial Centre involves licensing, registration, and operational costs that vary depending on the chosen license category and business structure.
Key Cost Components
01
Registration Fees
One-time incorporation and name reservation fees payable to the Registrar of Companies.
02
License Fees
Annual license fees differ based on whether the company is classified under:
Financial Institutions (Authorised Firms)
Non-Financial / Professional Services
Regulated financial activities typically involve higher fees due to DFSA oversight.
03
Office Lease Costs
A physical office within the DIFC is mandatory. Costs depend on office size, location, and facility type (serviced office, co-working, or commercial unit).
04
Regulatory Capital Requirements
Certain categories require minimum capital deposits, especially for financial services firms.
05
Visa Allocation Fees
Visa quotas are linked to office size and must be factored into the total setup budget.
Additional services like bank account opening, residency visas, and tax registration can be added depending on necessity.
/ABOUT BLZ FACILITIES/
Office and Facility Options
01
Serviced Offices
Fully furnished, ready-to-use spaces suitable for startups and boutique firms.
02
Shared / Co-Working Spaces
Flexible and cost-efficient options with limited visa allocations.
03
Commercial Office Units
Dedicated office spaces ideal for larger teams and regulated financial institutions.
All options include administrative support, high-speed internet, electricity, and parking.
Visa Options and Eligibility
Companies established in DIFC may apply for UAE residency visas for shareholders, directors, and employees.
Eligibility Factors
Active trade license
Valid lease agreement within DIFC
Visa quota linked to office size
Medical fitness and Emirates ID processing
Types of Visas
Investor / Shareholder Visa: Issued to company owners and typically valid for 2–3 years.
Employee Visa: Granted to staff under the company’s sponsorship, subject to quota approval.
Dependent Visa: Available for family members of eligible visa holders.
Processing Timeline
Get in Touch
Phone
Dubai
1402, Level 14 - Boulevard Plaza Tower 1 Downtown Dubai - Dubai
Abu Dhabi
Aldar HQ, Level 3, Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi
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