Introduction
Setting up a business in the UAE is a strategic move for entrepreneurs looking to expand globally. IFZA, or the International FreeZone Authority, has emerged as one of Dubai’s most flexible and cost effective freezones. BizHub helps founders navigate the setup process, from selecting the right license to managing banking and visa requirements.
IFZA appeals to businesses of all sizes because it simplifies company formation while providing access to Dubai’s commercial opportunities. Understanding its licenses, costs, and benefits is essential before starting operations.
Overview of IFZA FreeZone
IFZA, or the International FreeZone Authority, is a government owned free trade zone that has relocated from Fujairah to the Dubai Silicon Oasis area in the United Arab Emirates. It is a leading investment hub in Dubai, co branded with the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority.
It supports various business structures and offers flexible office solutions, including virtual offices, flexi desks, and physical spaces. This combination of benefits and flexibility has made IFZA a popular choice among startups, SMEs, and international investors.
Types of IFZA FreeZone Licenses
Depending on your business activity, IFZA offers several license options:
1. Commercial License
Allows you to trade, import, export, distribute, or store goods. Ideal for trading companies and retailers.
2. Industrial License
For businesses involved in manufacturing, light production, or packaging. It allows importing raw materials and exporting finished goods.
3. Professional License
For service based businesses such as IT, marketing, education, legal consultancy, and more.
4. Consultancy License
Designed for individuals or firms offering specialized consultancy services from management to finance or HR.
5. Service License
Covers businesses that provide services rather than tangible goods such as transportation, event management, or media.
6. General Trading License
The most flexible license, letting you trade in multiple product categories under one license. Perfect for import/export and multi sector businesses.
Business Activities Permitted in IFZA
IFZA allows a broad range of business activities. Entrepreneurs can select activities that suit their goals.
Commercial Activities
- General trading
- Specialized trading (electronics, textiles, automotive parts)
- E-commerce operations
- Wholesale and retail distribution
Professional Services
- Business consultancy and strategy advisory
- Legal and financial advisory
- IT and software development
- Marketing and branding
- HR consultancy
Industrial Activities
- 3D printing
- Food processing and packaging
- Textile and garment manufacturing
- Electronics assembly
- Cosmetics production
Creative Services
- Media production
- Event management and public relations
- Advertising and graphic design
Technology & IT Services
- Software development
- Cloud computing solutions
- IT support and cybersecurity
- Blockchain solutions
Other Services
- Education and training
- Healthcare clinics and dental practices
- Logistics and supply chain management
- Real estate and property services
- Food and beverage operations
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Company in IFZA
Setting up your business in IFZA is a quick and transparent process. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity and License Type
Select the activity that matches your business goals: trade, service, consultancy, or industrial.
Step 2: Decide the Legal Structure
Choose between a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for single shareholders or a Free Zone Company (FZCO) for multiple partners.
Step 3: Submit Documents
Provide passport copies, digital photos, application forms, and if required, UAE visa or Emirates ID copies.
Step 4: Pay the License Fee
Once your documents are approved, pay the required license and registration fee.
Step 5: Sign the E Agreement
IFZA issues an electronic agreement (E agreement) and a share capital letter to finalize your registration.
Step 6: Receive Your Business License
Within a few working days, your IFZA trade license is issued and you’re officially ready to start your business in Dubai.
IFZA Business Setup Costs
IFZA is known for offering one of the most affordable company formation packages in Dubai.
Here’s a general cost overview (approximate range):
- 1 Year License (0 Visa) – AED 12,900*
- 2 Year License – AED 25,000 – AED 28,000*
- License Renewal – AED 12,000 – AED 15,000*
- IFZA crypto license – AED 12,500 to AED 20,000,
Your total investment depends on the license type, number of visas, and office requirements. IFZA also offers crypto trading, e-commerce, and consultancy packages at competitive prices.
Benefits of Setting Up a Business in IFZA
IFZA offers several advantages that make it a preferred destination for global entrepreneurs:
Prime Dubai Location
Situated in Dubai Silicon Oasis, IFZA gives your business a strategic edge. It’s close to key highways, ports, and airports offering seamless global connectivity for trade, logistics, and client meetings.
100% Foreign Ownership
Enjoy complete control of your business with no local sponsor requirement. IFZA allows you to fully own your company and retain 100% of your profits, giving you total freedom in decision making and operations.
Easy Banking and Financial Setup
Opening a UAE corporate bank account is smooth and quick with IFZA. Thanks to simplified documentation and clear processes, you can get started with financial operations faster than most other freezones. BizHub also provides banking assistance to help you open a corporate account efficiently.
Attractive Tax Benefits
Businesses at IFZA benefit from 0% corporate and income tax, plus no import or export duties. This makes it one of the most tax efficient freezones in Dubai perfect for startups and global investors.
Networking & Growth Opportunities
IFZA is more than just a freezone, it’s a community. You’ll connect with other entrepreneurs, investors, and global founders, creating endless opportunities for collaboration, partnerships, and business expansion.
Fast & Digital Process
Everything from registration to license issuance is handled digitally. The process is streamlined, quick, and paper free so you can get your business running in just a few days.
Flexible Office Solutions
Whether you prefer a virtual office, flexi desk, or physical space, IFZA has options tailored to your needs. It’s ideal for startups wanting flexibility and established companies seeking premium facilities.
LLC Structure for Protection
IFZA allows you to register as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), separating your personal assets from business liabilities. This provides financial protection and long term peace of mind for business owners.
Documents Required for IFZA Company Setup
To register your company with IFZA, you’ll need:
- Passport copy of each shareholder
- Digital passport size photo
- Completed application form with UBO details
- Emirates ID and visa copy (for UAE residents)
- Any required third party approvals based on business activity
Why Choose BizHub for Your IFZA Company Setup?
Starting a business in IFZA is straightforward but with the right support, it becomes effortless. We handle everything from selecting the right license to completing documentation and approvals, ensuring a smooth and transparent process for entrepreneurs, startups, and global investors.
Here’s what makes us the smart choice:
- Tailored Consultation: Guidance to choose the ideal business activity and license type.
- Complete Documentation: End-to-end handling of all forms and approvals.
- Visa & Banking Assistance: Support for investor visas and UAE bank account setup.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear costs with no hidden fees.
- Continuous Support: Help with renewals, compliance, and long term business growth.
With BizHub, your IFZA company setup is simple, efficient, and completely stress free allowing you to focus on what matters most: building your business.
FAQs
- I want to start a business in Dubai. Is IFZA right for me?
Yes! IFZA is one of Dubai’s most affordable and flexible freezones, offering quick setup, 100% ownership, and diverse business activities for global entrepreneurs. - How long does it take to get my IFZA license?
IFZA offers one of the fastest setups in Dubai. Your business license is usually issued within 3–5 working days after submitting all required documents. - Can I own my company completely in IFZA?
Yes, you can! IFZA allows 100% foreign ownership, so you don’t need a local sponsor or UAE partner to run or manage your business. - Do I need to visit Dubai to register my company?
No, you can complete the entire IFZA company registration remotely through digital document submission and e-signature verification from anywhere in the world. - What are the main benefits of setting up in IFZA?
You get full ownership, 0% corporate tax, quick registration, global trading access, easy visa processing, and complete flexibility across multiple business sectors. - Can I get a UAE residence visa through my IFZA company?
Yes, once your company is registered, you can apply for investor, employee, and family visas under your IFZA business license.
