DIFC Free Zone Company Setup

Popular Business Activities at DIFC Free Zone

Though primarily a financial hub, DIFC Free Zone offers ample opportunities for non-financial businesses as well. Below we have listed some of the popular activities that firms engage in within the free zone.

Banking and Capital Markets:

Activities like corporate banking, trade finance, lending, crowdfunding platforms, and cash management can be taken up within the free zone.

Wealth and Asset Management:

With focus areas like fund management, private equity, and hedge funds, DIFC FZ is one of the preferred choices for this activity in the MEASA region.

Insurance and Reinsurance:

Firms at DIFC engage in diverse insurance and reinsurance lines ranging from life, non-life, takaful, and retakaful.

FinTech:

DIFC provides entrepreneurs with an innovative environment to set up their FinTech businesses, and has emerged as a leading FinTech hub in the MEASA region.

F&B:

DIFC Free Zone also permits the setting up of cafes and restaurants. As of today, the center already hosts numerous local and international chains offering a diverse variety of cuisines.

How to Obtain a UAE Residence Visa through a DIFC Free Zone Company?

Step 1:

If you require visas, we will apply for the establishment card of the company.

Step 2:

An application for your e-visa will be submitted and we will provide it to you once obtained.

Step 3:

The next step is UAE entry or in-country change of status of the applicant. You can enter the UAE throughout the e-visa's validity term even if you are not currently in the country. You must provide us with a stamped copy of your e-visa. We will also handle the necessary status adjustment if you are in the United Arab Emirates when your e-visa is issued. Please be aware, nonetheless, that the requirements of your particular circumstances may dictate that you leave the UAE and return; the immigration authorities will decide this on a case-by-case basis.

Step 4:

You need to undergo a medical test. We will assist you during this process.

Step 5:

Submission of your fingerprints, photo, and signature is required to obtain your Emirates ID. We will assist you with this process.

Step 6:

As health insurance is mandatory for the issuance of a visa, you will need to obtain a health insurance plan. We can assist you in obtaining a basic health insurance plan.

Step 7:

Once your visa application is approved, your Emirates ID will be issued. InZone provides comprehensive assistance to set up a DIFC Free Zone company, from obtaining the trade license to processing residence visas for shareholders and employees.

DIFC Optional Office Space Solutions

DIFC Free Zone offers different office spaces for numerous types of businesses, whether you're a startup or a big company. They have options to fit your requirements and budget, from affordable spaces to prestigious addresses. Flexible Office Solutions Serviced Offices: Fully furnished and equipped offices with access to meeting rooms, administrative support, and high-speed internet. These are ideal for companies seeking a hassle-free setup with minimal upfront costs. Co-working Spaces: Shared workspaces that foster collaboration and networking opportunities. Co-working spaces in DIFC Free Zone offer a vibrant community environment with flexible membership plans. Virtual Offices: Perfect for businesses that require a prestigious business address without the need for physical office space. Virtual offices provide mail handling, call answering services, and access to meeting rooms as needed. Executive Offices: High-end office spaces designed for senior executives and professionals. These offices offer premium facilities, including private meeting rooms and concierge services, ensuring a professional and sophisticated work environment. Customizable Office Solutions: For businesses with specific requirements, DIFC Free Zone offers customizable office spaces that can be tailored to meet unique operational needs. This option allows companies to design their office layout and choose the amenities that best support their business activities.

Documents Required for DIFC Free Zone Company Formation

For individual shareholder(s)

• Clear and colored scanned passport copies of each shareholder
• The latest UAE entry stamp or UAE visa of each shareholder (if available)
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
• Passport-sized photo of each shareholder with a white background (shoulders and head showing, colored, white background, dark clothing, no jewelry, eyewear, no teeth)
• Address proof of the shareholder

For corporate shareholder(s)

• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Article of Association (AOA)
• Business license (for an existing company)
• Board Resolution
• Certificate of Incorporation

It is crucial to note that in addition to the above documents, you may have to submit additional documents as and when required.