Dubai free zone, DIFC
Set up your company in DIFC Dubai
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the region's leading financial hub: an independent free zone with its own common-law framework, an independent regulator in the DFSA and its own English-language courts. It is the home of choice for financial institutions, fund managers, family offices, fintech and the professional firms that serve them.
- Independent common-law jurisdiction
- Regulated by the DFSA
- Own English-language courts
- 100% foreign ownership
Why DIFC
A global financial centre in Dubai.
DIFC offers something no standard free zone can: an internationally recognised common-law environment, a respected regulator and a courts system built for business, all in a prestigious central Dubai district.
Common-law framework
An independent legal system based on English common law.
DFSA regulation
An independent, internationally respected financial regulator.
DIFC Courts
Independent English-language courts for commercial disputes.
100% ownership
Own your company outright in a highly regarded financial district.
Global hub
A trusted base connecting the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
Innovation hub
A leading fintech and innovation network with accelerator support.
Who DIFC is for
Designed for finance, fintech and professional services. and the firms behind it.
DIFC is home to both regulated financial firms and the professional services that support them. These are the businesses it suits best.
Financial services
Banks, advisors and DFSA-regulated financial firms.
Funds & asset management
Fund managers and investment vehicles.
Family offices
Wealth structuring and single or multi-family offices.
Fintech & innovation
Fintech start-ups via the DIFC innovation network.
Professional services
Law firms, consultancies, audit and corporate services.
Holding companies
Prestigious holding and headquarters structures.
Some DIFC activities are regulated by the DFSA and others are non-regulated. We confirm which route applies before you commit.
What it costs
DIFC company setup cost.
DIFC cost depends heavily on whether your activity is regulated, your office and your visas, so a quote based on your exact needs is more accurate than a single advertised price. These are the parts that make up the figure.
Registration and license
DIFC application, registration and the relevant license fee.
Regulatory fees
For DFSA-regulated activities, an application and supervision fee.
Office space
DIFC requires commercial space, from co-working to fitted offices.
Visas and immigration
Establishment card and each residence visa for your team.
How we help
From activity to licensed in DIFC.
- 01
Scope your activity
We confirm whether your activity is regulated or non-regulated.
- 02
Structure and apply
We set the right structure and file your DIFC application.
- 03
Office and license
We secure DIFC office space and obtain your license.
- 04
Visas and bank
We arrange residence visas and introduce your bank.
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.
- Common law
- Independent jurisdiction
- 1,500+
- Companies formed
- 15+
- Years in the UAE
- DFSA
- Internationally respected regulator
Keep exploring
More on setting up in Dubai.
Good to know
DIFC questions, answered.
- What is DIFC and what makes it different?
- The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the region's leading financial free zone. Unlike a standard free zone, it has its own independent legal framework based on English common law, an independent regulator in the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), and its own English-language courts. That combination is what attracts global financial institutions, funds and family offices.
- Who should set up in DIFC?
- DIFC suits financial services firms, fund and asset managers, family offices, fintech start-ups, and the professional services that support them, such as law firms, consultancies and audit firms. It also suits prestigious holding and headquarters structures. If you do not need a financial-centre environment, a standard free zone may be more cost-effective.
- What is the difference between regulated and non-regulated DIFC firms?
- Financial activities in DIFC are regulated by the DFSA and require regulatory approval, which adds time, capital and supervision requirements. Many activities, such as holding companies, professional services and some innovation businesses, are non-regulated and follow a lighter process. We confirm which route applies to your activity before you commit.
- How much does it cost to set up in DIFC?
- DIFC cost varies widely depending on whether your activity is regulated, the office you take and how many visas you need. The main components are registration and license fees, any DFSA regulatory fees, office space (DIFC requires commercial space) and visas. We confirm an all-in quote based on your needs for your specific activity.
- Do I get 100% ownership in DIFC?
- Yes. A DIFC company gives you 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of capital and profits, and no currency restrictions, within an internationally recognised common-law jurisdiction.
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.