DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE (DIFC)2024-10-03T15:25:44+04:00

UAE MAINLAND

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE (DIFC)

What is the significance of having a UAE mainland firm, and what does it represent?

The DIFC free zone, which is relatively new, has quickly become one of the world’s leading financial hubs and accounts for a stunning 12 percent of Dubai’s GDP, demonstrating its impact and rapid growth.

Dubai Free Zones

Businesses in the Dubai Free Zone trade goods and services while taking benefits of unique tax and foreign ownership regulations.

 

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) free zone, this jurisdiction plays a crucial role in attracting foreign investors to investigate global markets by making investments in this dynamic area. Its dedication to integrity, respect to regulations, and expedited business establishment processes create the perfect environment for financial organizations looking for stability and expansion prospects.

Businesses and financial institutions aiming to prosper in this quickly changing region can be found in Dubai International Financial Center. The founding of companies in the DIFC Free Zone offers a mutually beneficial environment with favorable tax structures, hospitable rules, and strategic frameworks.

The DIFC Authority is the main authority that administers the DIFC. The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), which regulates financial services activity both within and outside of the DIFC, is the regulatory body for financial services. Different from the UAE’s federal Securities and Commodities Authority, which has jurisdiction over the entire country outside of the DIFC, is the DFSA.  DIFC Authority was established to administer the strategic development, operational management, and planning of Dubai International Financial Centre. It is also responsible for the development and administration of laws and regulations other than those related to financial services firms. Dispute Resolution Authority (DRA) Operating within a common law framework, DRA ensures the highest international standards of legal procedure and dispute resolution. It administers justice and legal excellence within DIFC.

The DIFC Wills Centre is a joint venture between the DIFC Dispute Resolution Authority and the Dubai government. It allows non-Muslim expatriates to pass on their assets in the way they stipulate in their wills in their home country. This detail is fundamental because, in the event of an untimely passing, the absence of a will implies that the distribution of assets falls under Sharia Law that could go against the desires of the deceased.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is home to several prominent organizations that enhance its vibrant business landscape. Among them, Al Tamimi & Company stands out as one of the Middle East’s largest law firms, offering legal services across various sectors. The Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), the government’s primary investment arm, also operates here. The Industrial Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) provides comprehensive financial services as a leading global bank. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP and Baker & McKenzie, both prestigious international law firms, add to the legal expertise available within DIFC. Habib Al Mulla DIFC is another notable legal firm with deep regional knowledge. Also, there are more firms in this freezone. Feel free to connect with business setup consultants for more information.

 

Advantages Of Business Setup in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

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Types Of UAE Free Zone Trade Licence

On the UAE free zone, businesses can be divided into four main licences depending on their activity type: General Trading, Commercial,
Industrial and Service. Below is a general look at each licence type.

 

Dubai Free Zones

Businesses in the Dubai Free Zone trade goods and services while taking benefits of unique tax and foreign ownership regulations.

 

Legal Forms For Company Formation In UAE Free Zones

The legal forms available for company registration in UAE free zones have been modified to meet the needs of different business kinds and investment levels. Below is a summary of the main corporate organizations and applicable legal frameworks found in UAE’s free zones:

 

Free Zone Establishment (FZE)

A Free Zone Establishment (FZE) registration allows for a single shareholder to form a company. This shareholder can be an individual (person) or a corporate shareholder.

FZCO (Free Zone Company) ( FZ- LLC)

An FZCO is essentially a multiple shareholder or a partnership freezone firm where there is more than one shareholder in the company with a maximum of 50 shareholders.

Branch of a Foreign Company

A branch is a separate legal entity , under the control of the parent foreign company . It is used in the UAE as a marketing tool for the parent company.

Branch of a UAE Company

A branch office setup is a separate office or branch of an existing company. The local company already has a license in the UAE. Hence, this is an expansion of the local business.

Why Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) For Your Company Formation?

DIFC is an autonomous free zone located in Dubai that grants businesses full ownership without requiring a local partner. Along with specifically designated retail and hotel spaces, the freezone is home to wealth funds and financial institutions. DIFC offers clients a 34-year guarantee of low taxes on corporate income and profits, complemented by the UAE’s network of double taxation treaties.

Approximately 3,000 foreign corporations, family enterprises, and corporate service providers operate in DIFC as of 2022, according to the research that showed a 19% yearly growth in non-financial firms.

The DIFC Courts have signed many treaties and Memorandums of Understanding (MOA) to make it easier to enforce its judgments with other legal systems across the UAE, abroad and the wider GCC region.

Standard Required Documents to Start the
Business Setup Process

Let’s launch your business with success! Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready to streamline the setup process!

  • Passport copies of shareholders and managers.
  • Passport-sized photos of shareholders and managers.
  • Residence Copy / Entry Stamp / Visit Visa Copy.
  • Business plan (sometimes required).
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor if the shareholder has a UAE residency visa.

Your Guide To Setting Up A Free Zone Business In UAE

Your business setup checklist is ready. Let’s launch your business with success!

  • 1
    Decide on your business venture.
  • 2
    Choose the best UAE location for your company
  • 3
    Choose the legal framework for your company.
  • 4
    Give your business name.
  • 5
    Apply for Initial Approval.
  • 6
    Prepare Legal Documents.
  • 7
    Lease Office Space.
  • 8
    Obtain Licenses.
  • 9
    Open a Corporate Bank Account.
  • 10

    Apply for the number of visas your company will require.

  • 11

    Register for VAT (if applicable)

We Business Setup Consultants will assist you to launch your project in the UAE from A to Z without any hassles and provide you post launch assistance for your visas and all corporate services that you might need in the future.

We Business Setup Consultants will assist you to launch your project in the UAE from A to Z without any hassles and provide you post launch assistance for your visas and all corporate services that you might need in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Business Setup in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

Which are the types of companies that work under DIFC?2024-07-09T12:44:34+04:00
  • Authorized Firms
  • Authorized Market Institution
  • Designated Non-Financial Business or Profession
  • Registered Auditors
  • Non-Regulated Entities
  • Exempt Companies
What is the role of the Registered Auditor in DIFC?2024-07-09T12:45:16+04:00

The role and duty of a Registered Auditor is intended to enhance investor confidence, ensuring the financial statements in the DIFC comply with the required financial reporting standards and give a true and fair view of the financial position of the entity being audited.

Why types of licences and corporate structures are available?2024-07-09T12:45:53+04:00

There are two types of company licence classes that you can employ at the DIFC for company formation:

Regulated Licence: All banking and financial operations that fall under the purview of the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) are covered by this type of licence.

Non-Regulated License: This type of license is intended for companies that are not in the banking or financial industries. This license will apply to businesses such as lodging facilities and educational institutions. A sizable amount of retail space in the DIFC is covered by the Non-Regulated Licence.

Is there any specific visa policy for DIFC companies?2024-07-09T12:46:24+04:00

Yes, DIFC provides streamlined visa processing for employees of registered companies, making it easier to attract and retain talent.

What support services are available in DIFC?2024-07-09T12:47:08+04:00

DIFC offers a wide range of support services including business setup assistance, licensing, visa processing, real estate solutions, and access to networking events and professional services.

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