IFZA Free Zone — Complete Guide to Company Formation in Dubai
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) has become one of the UAE’s most dynamic and cost-effective options for entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses in Dubai.
With its affordable licence packages, world-class infrastructure, and simplified regulations, IFZA attracts thousands of startups, SMEs, and foreign investors every year.
This guide provides a detailed overview of IFZA company setup — including benefits, steps, costs, and documentation requirements — to help you launch your UAE business with confidence.
What Is IFZA Free Zone?
Established in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) was created to simplify business setup for international entrepreneurs.
It offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal and corporate tax, and complete repatriation of profits, making it one of the most competitive free zones in the UAE.
IFZA provides licences for various business activities, from consulting and e-commerce to industrial and trading ventures.
👉 Learn more about IFZA packages here: https://yoursofficially.ae/ifza-company-setup/
Key Benefits of Setting Up a Company in IFZA
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Full Ownership and Control
Foreign entrepreneurs can own 100% of their business with no need for a local sponsor. -
Affordable Setup Packages
IFZA offers some of the most competitive company formation costs in the UAE — starting as low as AED 12,000 depending on licence type. -
Fast and Flexible Registration
Company incorporation can be completed in as little as 3–5 working days. -
Multiple Licence Options
Choose from commercial, service, industrial, or general trading licences to suit your business model. -
No Physical Office Required
A Flexi-Desk option allows you to operate virtually while maintaining a legal UAE address. -
Strategic Dubai Location
Being based in Dubai gives your business global credibility and easy access to clients across the GCC, Asia, and Europe.
Types of IFZA Licences
IFZA offers a wide range of licences, covering nearly every major sector:
| Licence Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Consultancy Licence | For professionals providing business, legal, or management consulting services. |
| Service Licence | For businesses offering IT, marketing, or technical services. |
| Trading Licence | Allows import, export, and distribution of goods. |
| General Trading Licence | Enables trading of multiple, unrelated goods under one licence. |
| Industrial Licence | For manufacturing or production activities. |
Each licence type is customisable based on the number of visa allocations, office requirements, and shareholders.
IFZA vs Other Free Zones
| Feature | IFZA Free Zone | RAKEZ / SPC / DMCC |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dubai Silicon Oasis | Ras Al Khaimah / Sharjah / JLT |
| Ownership | 100% Foreign | 100% Foreign |
| Licence Cost | Lower (AED 12,000 onwards) | Moderate to High |
| Visa Options | 0–6 visas | Varies |
| Office Requirement | Optional | Optional |
| Company Setup Time | 3–5 Days | 5–10 Days |
IFZA’s streamlined process and Dubai base make it one of the most practical options for foreign-owned startups.
Steps to Register Your IFZA Company
Here’s the complete process of setting up a company in IFZA:
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Choose a Business Activity
Define your trade or service category based on IFZA’s approved list. -
Select a Company Name
Pick a unique, compliant business name following UAE naming guidelines. -
Submit Documentation
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Passport copy
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Passport-sized photo
-
Business activity description
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Proof of residence (for some cases)
-
-
Apply for Initial Approval
The IFZA authority reviews and approves your application within a few working days. -
Receive Your Licence
Once approved, you’ll receive your official business licence and incorporation certificate electronically. -
Open a Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence, you can open an account with any UAE bank. -
Apply for Residence Visa (Optional)
If you plan to live in the UAE, apply for your investor or employment visa.
Cost of IFZA Company Formation (2025)
While costs vary depending on the licence and visa requirements, here’s a general breakdown:
| Package | Starting Price (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Zero Visa Licence | 12,000–13,000 | Trade licence, registration, business address |
| 1–3 Visa Package | 15,000–18,000 | Licence + visa quota + establishment card |
| 5+ Visa Package | 20,000+ | Licence + multiple visas + office support |
👉 To get the latest pricing and offers, visit: https://yoursofficially.ae/ifza-company-setup/
Common Misconceptions About IFZA
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“IFZA licences are only for small businesses.”
False — IFZA supports large corporations too, with multi-licence and multi-visa packages. -
“It’s complicated to open a bank account.”
IFZA companies are recognised by UAE banks; the process is straightforward when guided by experts. -
“IFZA companies can’t operate internationally.”
IFZA-licensed businesses can conduct international trade and services without restrictions.
How Yours Officially Helps You Get Started
At Yours Officially, we make your IFZA company setup fast, affordable, and fully compliant.
Our experts handle every step — from choosing the right licence to document submission, visa processing, and bank account opening.
We provide transparent pricing, government-approved packages, and hands-on support so you can focus on what matters most — growing your business.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking an affordable, reliable, and flexible way to start a business in Dubai, the IFZA Free Zone is an ideal choice.
With quick processing, low costs, and strong Dubai branding, IFZA offers everything an entrepreneur needs to succeed in the UAE market.
