DIFC Company Registration
Dubai International Financial Centre — the region’s premier hub for banking, wealth management and capital markets under English Common Law.
Business Entities in DIFC
Select the right entity type for your liability, tax and growth goals.
Private Company Ltd
Private Company Limited by Shares
Primary vehicle for professional firms, consultancies and holding structures, recognised by international banks.
Prescribed Company
Cost-effective SPV for asset holding and structured finance, with lower setup costs and simplified reporting.
Regulated Financial Firm
DFSA-licensed entity for banking, investment funds, brokerage and fintech.
Why Register in DIFC?
The Middle East’s premier financial centre for banking, funds and capital markets
Independent DIFC Courts applying English common law in English
DFSA-regulated environment — the leading regional hub for fintech and asset management
Zero personal income tax, no withholding taxes and a vast double-tax treaty network
Potential 0% corporate tax on qualifying income as a Qualifying Free Zone Person
0% Personal Income Tax
No personal income tax and highly competitive corporate tax in the UAE and GCC.
100% Foreign Ownership
Own your company outright in free zones — and now most mainland activities too.
Strategic Location
A bridge between Europe, Asia and Africa with world-class logistics and connectivity.
Residency Visas
Company formation can unlock investor and employee residence visas for you and your team.
A Simple, Guided Setup
We manage every step of your DIFC incorporation end to end.
Consultation & Structure
We review your goals and recommend the right entity type, jurisdiction and ownership structure for your business.
Name Reservation
We check availability and reserve your company name in line with local naming rules and trademark checks.
Document Preparation
We draft and collate the incorporation documents — KYC, constitution/articles, registers and forms — for accurate filing.
Registration & Tax Setup
We file with the authorities, obtain your certificate of incorporation and register for the relevant tax IDs.
Banking & Compliance
We assist with corporate bank account opening and set you up for ongoing filings, renewals and compliance.
What You Need
- Valid passport copy for each shareholder / director
- Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)
- Completed KYC form & business background details
- Proposed company name & main business activity
- Business plan detailing scope, funding and management (required for DFSA-regulated entities)
- At least one director and a company secretary (appointment support provided)
What’s Included
- Company name check & reservation
- Preparation & filing of incorporation documents
- Certificate of incorporation
- Registered office / registered agent (where required)
- Tax / company identification number
- Corporate bank account assistance
- Dedicated formation specialist
- Compliance & renewal reminders
Frequently Asked Questions
Free zone or mainland — which should I choose?
Free zones are ideal for 100% ownership, lower cost and international trade; mainland is best if you need to trade directly within the UAE market or bid for government contracts. We match the licence to your activity.
Do I need a physical office?
Many free zones allow flexi-desk or virtual office options, while mainland licences may require physical space depending on activity.
Is corporate tax applicable?
The UAE applies a 9% corporate tax above a profit threshold, with qualifying free-zone income potentially at 0%. We advise on your specific situation.
More Middle East Jurisdictions
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