Launch in IFZA Free Zone in 3 Days. 100% Foreign Ownership, Low Costs
Dubai’s fastest-growing free zone offers premium licensing, visa solutions, and business support – all with zero corporate tax.
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) offers a dynamic environment for entrepreneurs and businesses aiming to establish a presence in Dubai. Here’s why IFZA stands out:
Understanding the right trade licence is a vital step in setting up your business in a UAE Free Zone. Licences are categorized based on the nature of your business activities, and each licence type unlocks unique operational possibilities within the Free Zone ecosystem. Here’s a detailed overview of the four main UAE Free Zone trade licences:
A General Trading Licence is perfect for companies looking to trade a wide variety of goods under a single licence. Whether it’s foodstuff, electronics, furniture, or other products, this licence provides the flexibility to import, export, store, distribute, and re-export various commodities. It’s especially ideal for businesses that want to diversify without limiting themselves to specific product lines.
Note: Some specialised products may require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to comply with regulatory approvals.
The Commercial Licence is essential for entrepreneurs involved in selling products or services within the UAE or internationally. This licence authorizes the import, purchase, sale, and export of specified goods and services, making it a versatile option for many businesses. Whether your operations are localized within the Free Zone or extend beyond UAE borders, the commercial licence ensures your trade activities stay fully compliant.
If your business focuses on manufacturing, an Industrial Licence is the right choice. Issued by the Free Zone authority, this licence permits companies to import raw materials, manufacture goods, package them, and export finished products. It caters to entrepreneurs who are engaged in industrial processes, production, and assembly within the Free Zone’s jurisdiction, supporting value addition and export-led growth.
The Service Licence caters to professionals and companies offering specialized services such as consulting, IT support, logistics, insurance, travel, car rental, and staffing. It enables businesses like accounting firms, legal consultancies, marketing agencies, and other service providers to operate legally within the Free Zone. This licence is designed for service-oriented businesses that deliver expertise and consultancy rather than tangible goods.
Starting a business in a UAE Free Zone can be complex, but with our expert guidance, the process becomes simple, fast, and hassle-free. Here’s how we support you every step of the way:
Expert Consultation & Business Planning
We help you identify the ideal Free Zone and trade licence based on your business activity, goals, and budget, ensuring your company setup aligns perfectly with your vision.
Complete Documentation Management
From preparing and submitting your application to handling all necessary government paperwork, we manage the entire documentation process meticulously to avoid delays or compliance issues.
License & Registration Assistance
We streamline your license issuance, company registration, and initial approvals, ensuring your business becomes legally operational within the shortest time frame.
Office Space & Visa Solutions
Whether you need a flexi-desk, executive offices, or multiple visas for your team, we arrange cost-effective solutions tailored to your business needs in the Free Zone.
Post-Setup Support
Our relationship doesn’t end at registration. We provide ongoing assistance with license renewals, regulatory updates, PRO services, and any other business compliance requirements.
Choosing the right legal structure is a crucial step in setting up a business in any UAE free zone, including IFZA. The UAE government offers various legal forms tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, SMEs, and multinational corporations. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key company types available:
A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) is ideal for solo entrepreneurs or businesses with a single shareholder. This shareholder can be either an individual or a corporate entity. It provides full control to the owner while enjoying the benefits of operating in a free zone environment, such as 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions.
Best for:
A Free Zone Company (FZCO)—also referred to as FZ-LLC—is designed for businesses with multiple shareholders, with a limit of up to 50 partners. Shareholders can include individuals, corporate entities, or a mix of both. This structure functions similarly to a limited liability company (LLC) and offers operational flexibility with limited liability protection.
Best for:
A Branch of a Foreign Company allows international businesses to establish a presence in the UAE without forming a new legal entity. While the branch operates independently, it remains fully owned and controlled by the parent company abroad. This structure is typically used for marketing, liaison, or extension of services within the UAE.
Best for:
A Branch of a UAE Company enables businesses that are already licensed and operational in the UAE to expand their footprint by opening additional branches. It functions under the same license as the parent company and is not considered a separate legal entity.
Best for:
Our expert team is here to guide you through every stage of your business setup in the IFZA Free Zone.
All IFZA licenses are valid for 1 year and renewable annually. Renewals can be processed 30 days before expiry.
Yes, through a local distributor or by paying 5% customs duty. We help establish mainland trade partnerships.
Top activities include e-commerce, consulting, IT services, trading, and holding companies. Full list available on request.
No – we handle everything remotely until visa processing (if required). Digital document signing is accepted.
Yes, you can combine up to three business activities under the same license type without additional fees.