DAFZA was under the regulatory purview of the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority until September 2021. However, the Dubai government issued Law No. (16) of 2021 to create a new authority called Dubai Integrated Economic Zones (DIEZ) Authority. DIEZ is an independent legal entity with financial and administrative autonomy. Three free zones in Dubai, including DAFZA, are now being regulated by DIEZ.

Licence Types Permitted by DAFZA 

A trade license is the most important prerequisite for any company to start its operations in Dubai. Doing business in Dubai without a trade license is a serious offence. However, investors need to do good research while choosing a license. The activity and the license must match to ensure the success of the company. Business setup consultants in Dubai can guide the entrepreneurs to select the right licenses. Here is a list of license types permitted in DAFZA:

1. A trading license for trading activities including imports, exports
2. An industrial license for carrying out light manufacturing activities
3. A service license for carrying out professional services specified in the license
4. A general trading license for carrying out trading of multiple goods

Types of Companies Approved by DAFZA 

Choosing the right legal structure is critical for a successful company formation in DAFZA. A legal structure is determined based on the number of shareholders in the company. DAFZA offers the following legal structures:

Free zone company  

A free zone company (FZCO) can be set up in DAFZA with 1-50 shareholders. DAFZA allows the shareholders to be individuals or corporate entities. Business setup consultants in Dubai can help the investors set up an FZCO.

Public Limited Company 

DAFZA allows the formation of a Public Limited Company (PLC) with limited liability. There’s no limit of shareholders in a PLC incorporated in DAFZA. PLC structure is best suited for companies wishing to list or relish or offer shares on a securities market.

Branch Companies  

Existing companies can establish their branches in DAFZA. Both the UAE local companies and foreign companies can set up their branches in DAFZA. No share capital is required to establish a branch office in DAFZA.

E-Commerce License 

An e-commerce license is mandatory for companies that conduct activities like trading goods and products through online platforms. E-commerce activities are much in demand across the world including in the UAE as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic that requires heightened social distancing practices to spread the infection.

The Dual License with DED 

The dual license allows DAFZA-registered companies to apply for a DED (Dubai Department of Economic Development) Licence. The companies can do it without the need for physical office space on the mainland. The businesses that hold the dual license can operate in the mainland from their offices in  DAFZA.

Benefits of Setting up a Business in DAFZA 

There are more than forty free zones in the UAE, but DAFZA stands out as one of the best choices for investors looking for company formation within Dubai. When comparing options for setting up a business in Dubai free zones, DAFZA’s strategic location, world-class facilities, and regulatory ease make it the top pick for many global companies. This reputation for excellence is reflected in DAFZA’s No. 1 ranking by the Foreign Direct Investment Magazine’s Global Free Zones & Awards 2012–13, earned through its investor-friendly services and outstanding infrastructure.

The following are some of the reasons why the business setup services in Dubai recommend DAFZA for company formation.

1. Strategic Location in Dubai near the International airport
2. Robust Cargo Handling Facilities
3. World Class Infrastructure
4. Smart Platform for Administrative services
5. Dedicated Logistics Centre
6. Reliable 24*7 customer service
7. 24*7 security service

DAFZA provides rapid cargo clearance services which will be highly beneficial for the logistics requirements of the companies operating within the free zone. To know more about the facilities and regulatory requirements in DAFZA, consult with providers of business setup services in Dubai.

Choose the Best Business Setup Services in Dubai 

DAFZA is one of the fastest-growing free zones in Dubai, that has been recognized internationally for its excellent regulatory structure and investor-friendly business atmosphere. DAFZA offers easy connectivity for all the companies through the sea, air, and land. However, the company formation in DAFZA becomes a smooth process only when the investors get access to professionals with in-depth knowledge of the UAE laws and regulations. Since the regulations in each free zone vary as per the policies implemented by the respective free zone authorities, selecting the right free zone requires the assistance of a reputed business setup services in Dubai such as Jitendra Business Consultants (JBC).

JBC has years of experience assisting investors with company formation in DAFZA and other leading Dubai free zones. Our highly qualified business setup consultants help investors handle the complete DAFZA company registration process, from trade license applications and MoA drafting to visa processing and compliance. By choosing JBC, investors can ensure a smooth, hassle-free business setup specifically within the Dubai Airport Free Zone.