IFZA Business Setup in Dubai — fast, affordable, fully remote
An IFZA business setup gives you a Dubai company in one of the UAE’s most cost-effective free zones — from around AED 12,900, with 100% ownership, 0% corporate tax on qualifying income and a fully remote process. Here’s how IFZA works, what it costs in 2026, and the steps to set up.
What this guide covers
Quick summary
- Who it suits: startups, consultants, e-commerce and traders wanting a low-cost Dubai company.
- Cost: from around AED 12,900 zero-visa; ~AED 14,900 with one visa.
- Ownership: 100% foreign ownership, no paid-up capital.
- Tax: 0% corporate tax on qualifying income (conditions apply).
- Timeline: licence typically issued in 3–5 working days, remotely.
What IFZA is
IFZA — the International Free Zone Authority, based in Dubai Silicon Oasis — has become one of the UAE’s most popular free zones by pairing low setup costs with speed and a banking-friendly reputation. It suits startups, consultants, e-commerce sellers and traders who want a Dubai company without a Dubai price tag.
Why founders choose IFZA
- Low-cost entry from around AED 12,900, with no paid-up capital required.
- 100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation.
- 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, subject to substance and the usual conditions.
- Fast, remote setup — licences are typically issued in 3–5 working days.
- Multiple activities under one licence, with three included as standard.
- Bank-friendly — IFZA is well recognised by UAE banks, which helps at account opening.
IFZA licence types
IFZA activities are drawn from the Dubai DED list, so the choice is broad. The main licences are commercial/trading, general trading, professional/consultancy, service and industrial. Aurum’s free activity consultation matches your model to the right one — or search the activity list yourself.
IFZA cost in 2026
Packages start from around AED 12,900 for a zero-visa licence covering three activities. A one-visa package starts near AED 14,900, and multi-year licences can attract discounts of up to 30%. Get an exact figure with our cost calculator.
How IFZA formation works
Choose activities & licence
We run a free activity consultation so your licence covers exactly what you do.
Reserve your trade name
Submitted to IFZA for initial approval.
File documents
Passport copy and photo for an individual shareholder; we prepare everything.
Licence issued
IFZA issues your trade licence electronically — your company is formed.
Visas & Emirates ID
Establishment card, entry permit, medical and stamping.
Bank account
We introduce you to IFZA-friendly banks and prepare your file.
IFZA vs other zones
IFZA is the value pick for lean businesses. If you need premium banking and a commodities/trade address, compare DMCC; for the lowest budget option look at RAKEZ.
IFZA business setup FAQs
How much does IFZA setup cost in 2026?
From around AED 12,900 for a zero-visa licence covering three activities, and about AED 14,900 with one visa. Costs rise with more visas and activities, and multi-year licences can earn discounts of up to 30%.
Is IFZA the cheapest free zone?
IFZA is one of the most cost-effective in Dubai. A few zones can be cheaper for very minimal setups, so the best-value choice depends on your activities, visas and banking plans.
Can foreigners own 100% of an IFZA company?
Yes — 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor, and full control of profits from day one.
How long does IFZA formation take?
Licences are typically issued in 3–5 working days once documents are in order. Visas and banking follow over the next couple of weeks.
Do IFZA companies pay tax?
An IFZA company can benefit from 0% corporate tax on qualifying income if it keeps adequate substance and meets the conditions; non-qualifying income is taxed at 9%.
Ready to take action?
Whether you're ready to start or still comparing options, we'll give you a straight answer.
