The Process and Benefits of Setting Up a Business in Dubai Airport Free Zone

Dubai has emerged as a global business hub, attracting entrepreneurs and corporations from around the world to establish their presence in the region. One of the key factors contributing to Dubai’s economic success is its strategically designed free zones, which offer unique advantages to businesses looking to tap into the Middle East market. Among these, the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) stands out as a prime location for businesses aiming to benefit from its exceptional infrastructure, incentives, and strategic location.

Understanding Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) was established in 1996 and is strategically situated adjacent to the Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world. This location offers businesses unprecedented connectivity to global markets and facilitates easy access to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. DAFZA is dedicated to providing an environment that fosters innovation, growth, and international trade, making it an attractive destination for various industries.

Get Started

The Process of Setting Up a Business in DAFZA

Setting up a business in Dubai Airport Free Zone involves several steps, each tailored to ensure a seamless experience for investors and entrepreneurs. The process generally includes:

1. Choosing Business Activity: Determine the nature of your business activity. DAFZA caters to a wide range of industries, including aviation, electronics, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and more.
2. Legal Structure and Business Type: Decide on the legal structure of your company. DAFZA allows various business types, including Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZCO), and Branch of an existing company.
3. Selecting a Trade Name: Choose a trade name that is compliant with DAFZA’s naming guidelines and reflects the nature of your business.
4. Submitting Application: Prepare and submit the required application forms along with necessary documents, including a business plan, passport copies of shareholders and directors, and other relevant documentation.
5. Approval and Licensing: Upon receiving approval, you will obtain a business license from DAFZA, allowing you to legally operate within the free zone.
6. Office Space: Choose an office space within DAFZA that suits your business requirements. The zone offers modern office facilities equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure.
7. Obtaining Visas: Apply for residency visas for shareholders, employees, and dependents. DAFZA provides simplified procedures for obtaining visas, which is a significant advantage for businesses.
8. Bank Account Opening: Open a corporate bank account in Dubai to facilitate financial transactions.
9. Customs Procedures: If your business involves import/export activities, familiarize yourself with DAFZA’s customs procedures and regulations.
10. Commence Operations: With all the formalities completed, you can begin your business operations within DAFZA.

Benefits of Setting Up in DAFZA

Dubai Airport Free Zone offers a plethora of benefits that make it an enticing choice for entrepreneurs and businesses:

1. Strategic Location: Proximity to the Dubai International Airport provides easy access to global markets and streamlined logistics.
2. 100% Foreign Ownership: DAFZA allows foreign investors to own their businesses outright without the need for a local partner.
3. Tax Benefits: Businesses established in DAFZA enjoy 0% corporate and personal taxes for a specific period, usually up to 15 years, renewable.
4. Customs Benefits: Exemption from import and export duties, as well as full repatriation of profits and capital, contribute to improved profitability.
5. Infrastructure: Modern and advanced infrastructure, including state-of-the-art office spaces, helps businesses operate efficiently.
6. Simplified Procedures: DAFZA offers streamlined administrative processes for company setup, visas, and other regulatory requirements.
7. Networking Opportunities: Being part of a vibrant business community opens doors to networking and collaboration opportunities.
8. Industry Clusters: DAFZA fosters industry-specific clusters, allowing businesses to benefit from proximity to related industries.
9. Security and Stability: Dubai’s political stability and well-developed legal framework provide a secure environment for businesses.
10. Support Services: DAFZA provides comprehensive support services, including legal, banking, and advisory services, to assist businesses in their operations.

WE CAN HELP

Dubai Airport Free Zone stands as a testament to Dubai’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts global investment and promotes economic growth. The streamlined processes, strategic location, and attractive incentives offered by DAFZA make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to establish a presence in the Middle East and beyond. By capitalizing on the benefits of DAFZA, entrepreneurs and corporations can position themselves for success in one of the world’s most dynamic and lucrative markets.

Get Started