Company setup in DIFC
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is Dubai's financial free zone, with its own legal system based on English common law, built for banks, funds, advisers and fintech companies.
Doing business in DIFC
Companies here operate under DIFC's own regulations and courts. The Dubai Financial Services Authority supervises regulated financial activities.
Asset managers, wealth firms, insurers, fintech start-ups, law firms and family offices commonly use it. Many non-financial professional firms also take offices here for the address.
What to know before you register
Who it suits
Fintech, funds, advisers and law firms. Asset managers, wealth firms, insurers, fintech start-ups, law firms and family offices commonly use it. Many non-financial professional firms also take offices here for the address.
Licensing route
Licensing is through DIFC, with a separate approval from the DFSA when the activity is regulated. Requirements, capital and timelines vary by activity, so we confirm your category first.
Practical tip
Check early whether your activity is regulated. Regulated activities need more documents and time than a non-regulated licence.
Services we provide for DIFC companies
PRO services
Visas, Emirates ID, labour and immigration paperwork handled for you.
Residency and Golden Visa
Investor, partner and employee visas, and long-term residency options.
Bank account support
Guidance and introductions for a corporate account.
Renewals and amendments
Renew on time and change activities, partners or addresses.
Document attestation
Attestation of company and personal documents.
Licence types
Understand commercial, professional and industrial licences.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need DFSA approval in DIFC?
Only for regulated financial services. Other permitted activities can be licensed without it, but we confirm your category before you apply.
Can a DIFC company trade with the rest of Dubai?
DIFC companies mainly serve financial and professional clients. Trading directly in the wider UAE market may need additional arrangements, which we explain upfront.
How long does setting up in DIFC take?
The time depends on your activity, the approvals it needs and how quickly documents and premises are ready. After reviewing your plan we give a written timeline for DIFC.
Ready to set up in DIFC?
Tell us your activity and plan. We reply with the recommended route, an itemised proposal and the next steps.