Dubai free zone, DAFZA
Set up your company in Dubai Airport Free Zone
Company registration in Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) offers a swift and advantageous process within one of the fastest-growing free zones in the Middle East. Home to more than 3,800 companies across aviation, pharmaceuticals, trade, manufacturing, logistics, jewellery and IT, DAFZA is a designated free zone with enticing incentives for investors. Strategically positioned beside Dubai International Airport, it gives foreign companies full ownership of office space and warehouses in a tax-free environment.
- 100% foreign ownership
- Beside Dubai International Airport
- Designated (VAT) zone
- Setup in 7 to 10 days
Why DAFZA
An airport hub, tax-free and global.
Leveraging Dubai's central location, DAFZA connects you to the GCC, the wider Arab world, the Asian subcontinent, Africa and Europe, with premium infrastructure and a designated-zone VAT status.
100% ownership
Full ownership of your office, warehouse and company, no sponsor.
Airport adjacent
Next to Dubai International Airport for fast global logistics.
Tax-free environment
A designated VAT zone with free zone tax treatment.
Full repatriation
Move 100% of your capital and profits with no currency limits.
High-quality facilities
Grade A offices and warehouses with modern infrastructure.
Quick to launch
A streamlined process gets you operational in 7 to 10 days.
Built for your industry
Made for trade, tech and logistics.
DAFZA hosts more than 3,800 companies across high-value sectors. These are the activities it suits best.
Aviation
Airlines, services and the aviation supply chain.
Pharmaceuticals
Storage, distribution and trade of medical products.
Trade & Trading
Import, export and re-export across global markets.
Jewellery & luxury
Precious goods trading in a secure designated zone.
Mobile & electronics
Phone accessories, devices and electronics trade.
IT & technology
Software, hardware and technology services.
Cannot find your activity in DAFZA? We will compare it against Meydan, IFZA and other zones so you start in the right place.
What it costs
DAFZA company formation cost.
Indicative DAFZA packages by facility, including the registration address and up to three business activities. We confirm a fixed, all-in quote before you commit.
| Smart Desk (1 visa) | Office (2 visas) | |
|---|---|---|
| Business address (office rent) | AED 16,650 | AED 25,000 |
| License fee (yearly) | AED 15,020 | AED 15,020 |
| Registration (one-time) | AED 7,000 | AED 7,000 |
| Knowledge & postal fee | AED 1,125 | AED 1,125 |
| Total | AED 39,795 | AED 48,145 |
- Establishment card is AED 2,020 in year one (renewal AED 1,870). Residence visa is around AED 3,950 per applicant, plus medical (AED 450 to 850) and Emirates ID (AED 395).
- Registration takes 7 to 10 business days and can be completed remotely, so shareholders do not need to travel.
- Figures are indicative and exclude VAT. We confirm a live, all-in quote for your setup.
How we help
From activity to open for business.
- 01
Choose your activity
We confirm your activity is permitted in DAFZA and Choose thepackage.
- 02
Apply and approve
We submit your application and documents and obtain approvals.
- 03
Lease and license
We sign the lease, attest the MoA and obtain your trade license.
- 04
Visas and bank
We arrange your residence visa, Emirates ID and a bank introduction.
Why FZM
Dedicated Senior advisory.
You will work directly with a Dedicated Senior advisor from day one. Your advisor will assess your requirements, identify the most suitable jurisdictions, manage the entire application process, and remain your long-term point of contact for ongoing guidance and support.
- 3,800+
- DAFZA companies
- 1,500+
- Companies formed
- 15+
- Years in the UAE
- 7 to 10 days
- Typical setup
Keep exploring
More on setting up in Dubai.
Good to know
DAFZA questions, answered.
- What is DAFZA best for?
- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is a designated free zone beside Dubai International Airport, home to more than 3,800 companies. It is best for aviation, pharmaceuticals, trade and Trading, jewellery, mobile and electronics, logistics and IT, and for any business that values fast airport logistics and a premium Dubai address.
- How much does DAFZA company formation cost?
- Indicative DAFZA packages start at around AED 39,795 for a Smart Desk with one visa and AED 48,145 for an office with two visas. Each includes the business address, the annual license, registration and the knowledge and postal fee, with up to three activities. Residence visas are extra at around AED 3,950 per applicant. We confirm a fixed, all-in quote before you commit.
- Is DAFZA a designated zone for VAT?
- Yes. DAFZA is a designated zone, which can offer VAT advantages for the movement of goods, in addition to the usual free zone benefits of 100% ownership, full profit repatriation and a tax-free environment. We explain how this applies to your specific activity.
- How long does it take to set up in DAFZA?
- DAFZA company incorporation typically takes 7 to 10 working days. The process can be completed remotely, so shareholders do not need to be in the UAE. We handle the application, MoA, lease, license and bank introduction.
- Do I need a physical office in DAFZA?
- DAFZA offers flexible options, from a Smart Desk package with one visa to full office and warehouse space. Your visa quota scales with the facility you choose. We match the right package to your team size and budget.
- What documents do I need for DAFZA?
- Typically a passport copy for each shareholder and the manager, the company name and activity, and supporting documents depending on your structure. We prepare and submit the application, draft or review the MoA and lease, and handle attestation and licensing on your behalf.
Maha BadrHighly recommended. A professional team, prompt on every detailed query and seamless on every requirement, trade license, corporate tax, bank account, residence ID, medical.
Largo HomeSimply impeccable. They didn't just meet deadlines, they anticipated them, with quick and effective solutions even in complex situations.
Maciej KolodziejczykVery efficient. Company formation, employment contract, residency visa, and all the prerequisites handled. Friendly and professional throughout.
Ready to incorporate
One advisor.From company formation to corporate banking.
A 30-minute consultation is all it takes to receive a tailored proposal, a transparent quotation, and a written roadmap delivered the same day. You will deal directly with an experienced advisor throughout the process.
- Response instantly
- Five languages spoken
- Independent. Not a license reseller.