Dubai’s onshore financial centre is the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) that gives businesses, including financial institutions, a solid and streamlined foundation from which to reach the region’s emerging markets.
What is DIFC?
DIFC has at its core an independent risk-based regulator, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). This regulator oversees the distribution of licenses and activities for each and every banking and financial institution in DIFC. It has been created with principle-based primary legislation in mind, similar to that which is found in London and New York. Companies setting up in DIFC can feel confident that the DFSA has a key role in ensuring that confidence in the financial centre is well placed.
Location
Sheikh Zayed Rd Dubai, UAE
Advantages of DIFC company setup
Cost effective business incorporation solutions
Fast & easy incorporation and company management
Wide and comprehensive range of business activities including Consultancy, Service and Trading options
Physical presence in the UAE is not required for incorporation
Companies have limited liability
100% exemption from corporate and income taxes
No paid upfront share capital requirements
Ability to incorporate holding companies
License types
Ancillary services
Asset management and fund registration
Banking services
Business processing operations
Capital markets
Islamic finance
Reinsurance and captive insurance
License types
Ancillary services
Asset management and fund registration
Banking services
Business processing operations
Capital markets
Islamic finance
Reinsurance and captive insurance
DIFC company structures
DIFC company structures
Company limited by shares
LLC
Branch office
Partnership
Processing time
License 3-4 weeks (complying with all the necessary requirements)
Visa application process: 7 business days (normal) and 2 business days (express/VIP)