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Company Formation in Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Set Up Your Business in Dubai Airport Free Zone – A Strategic Gateway to Global Markets

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is one of the UAE’s most prestigious and strategically positioned free zones, located right next to Dubai International Airport. Recognized among the world’s leading business hubs, DAFZA offers unmatched access to global markets, advanced infrastructure, and investor-friendly regulations that make it a prime destination for international entrepreneurs and corporations.

Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding an existing business, company formation in DAFZA ensures 100% foreign ownership, 0% personal income tax, and full profit repatriation all within a thriving ecosystem designed to accelerate growth.

At The Capital Zone, we provide complete DAFZA company formation services from selecting your license type and registering your business to visa processing, banking, and ongoing compliance.

Why Choose DAFZA for Business Setup?

Founded in 1996, DAFZA has evolved into a world-class hub hosting over 3,000 companies across 20+ industries, including logistics, aviation, pharmaceuticals, IT, electronics, and trade. Its proximity to Dubai International Airport (one of the world’s busiest) allows businesses to connect directly to over 220 global destinations, an unparalleled advantage for trade and logistics-based operations.

DAFZA’s commitment to innovation, smart services, and sustainability has positioned it among the Top Global Free Zones by fDi Magazine. Investors benefit from:

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Zero corporate and personal tax (subject to UAE Corporate Tax law compliance)
  • Fast business registration
  • State-of-the-art logistics and warehouse facilities
  • 24/7 customs clearance and government support services

With a strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-centric policies, DAFZA remains a leading choice for company formation in Dubai.

Types of Companies in DAFZA

DAFZA offers flexible company structures to suit various business models:

Free Zone Company (FZCO)
  • Can have 1 to 50 shareholders (individuals or corporate entities).
  • Requires a minimum share capital of AED 1.
  • Ideal for SMEs and startups looking for full ownership and flexibility.
Public Limited Company (PLC)
  • No limit on the number of shareholders.
  • Best suited for large corporations planning to list shares publicly or expand globally.
Branch of an Existing Company
  • Allows foreign or UAE-based companies to establish a branch office in DAFZA.
  • No share capital required.
  • Operates as an extension of the parent company.

Types of Licenses in DAFZA

Service License

Grants permission to provide professional or consultancy services such as IT, marketing, or legal advisory.

Dual License (with DET)

Enables DAFZA-based companies to operate in both free zones and Dubai mainland without additional office space.

General Trading License

Allows trading of multiple product categories under one license.

Trade License

Allows import, export, re-export, distribution, and storage of goods within DAFZA and internationally.

Industrial License

For businesses involved in light manufacturing, packaging, or assembly operations.

E-Commerce License

Ideal for online businesses and digital trade through e-commerce platforms.

Talent Pass License

For freelancers and professionals in media, education, and technology sectors.

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Key Benefits of Company Formation in DAFZA

  • 100% Foreign Ownership – No local partner or sponsor required.
  • 0% Personal & Corporate Tax – Tax-free zone (for qualifying income under UAE Corporate Tax Law).
  • Full Profit & Capital Repatriation – Transfer funds freely anywhere in the world.
  • Strategic Location – Immediate access to Dubai International Airport and major global markets.
  • World-Class Infrastructure – Modern offices, warehouses, and advanced logistics facilities.
  • Smart Services Platform – Seamless digital management for licensing, visas, and renewals.
  • Customs Advantages – Duty-free import/export within the free zone.
  • Multiple Business Activities Under One License – Combine several commercial or service activities.
  • Fast Company Setup – Incorporation and license issuance within days.
  • Visa Flexibility – Investor and employee visa packages available.

Tax & Regulatory Benefits in DAFZA

DAFZA offers a highly competitive tax environment aligned with the UAE Federal Corporate Tax Law (effective June 2023):

  • Corporate Tax:
    • 0% on qualifying free zone income.
    • 9% on non-qualifying income (e.g., transactions with the mainland).
  • VAT: 5% on taxable supplies; exports outside the GCC are zero-rated.
  • Personal Tax: 0% — no personal or income tax for investors and employees.
  • Customs: 100% exemption on import/export within the free zone.
  • Currency: No restrictions on foreign currency or repatriation of funds.


At The Capital Zone, our experts assess your business’s Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status and ensure complete compliance with Federal Tax Authority (FTA) regulations.

Step-by-Step Process for DAFZA Company Formation

Setting up a company in DAFZA is fast and transparent. Here’s how the process works:

Step 1 – Choose Business Activity & License Type

Select your business activities (trade, service, e-commerce, or industrial) and corresponding license.

Step 2 – Choose Your Legal Structure

Decide between an FZCO, PLC, or Branch, depending on your goals.

Step 3 – Reserve Your Trade Name

Pick a unique and compliant name and submit it for approval.

Step 4 – Submit Required Documents

Prepare passport copies, business plan, bank statement, and application forms.

Step 5 – Obtain Initial Approval & Pay Fees

DAFZA will review your documents and issue initial approval.

Step 6 – Lease Office or Warehouse Space

Choose from office suites, warehouses, or flexi-desks within DAFZA.

Step 7 – Receive License & Registration Certificate

Once approved, your trade license and Certificate of Incorporation will be issued.

Step 8 – Apply for Visas

Apply for investor and employee visas through DAFZA’s online system.

Step 9 – Open a Corporate Bank Account

Use your DAFZA license to open a UAE business account.

Step 10 – Begin Operations

Start your business immediately with full operational support from DAFZA.

Documents Required for DAFZA Company Registration

For Individual Shareholders:

  • Personal profile of the shareholder
  • Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
  • Application form
  • Six-month personal bank statement
  • Business plan
  • No Objection Certificate (if applicable)
  • Specimen signatures (attested)
  • Office lease agreement
  • Original bank statement

For Corporate Shareholders:

  • Certificate of Incorporation
  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Board Resolution & Power of Attorney
  • Passport copies of authorized signatories
  • Original bank statement

Timeline for DAFZA Company Formation

The company formation process in DAFZA typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your business type, license category, and document approvals. In some cases, it may extend up to one month if additional permits or external approvals are required.

Once your documents are submitted and approved, DAFZA issues the trade license, allowing you to proceed with visa processing and bank account setup.

At The Capital Zone, we handle every step to ensure a smooth, fast, and fully compliant setup process.

Visa Services in DAFZA

DAFZA provides flexible visa options to support your company’s operations and workforce:

  • Investor Visa – For company owners and shareholders.
  • Employee Visa – For staff sponsored under the company.
  • Dependent Visa – For family members of investors or employees.
  • Multiple-Entry Visa – For frequent international travelers.


At The Capital Zone, we manage the complete visa process from application to stamping and Emirates ID issuance ensuring full compliance with UAE residency laws.

Common Challenges During DAFZA Company Formation

The Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is one of the most prestigious and regulated free zones in the UAE, ideal for high-value trading and logistics firms. However, because of its premium standards, entrepreneurs may encounter a few challenges during company setup:

  • Higher Capital & Office Requirements: DAFZA requires physical office space and a minimum share capital, which increases initial investment.

  • Activity Restrictions: Limited license categories mainly trading, service, and industrial may not suit all business models.

  • Detailed Compliance Procedures: As DAFZA is located within Dubai Airport’s customs zone, businesses must comply with stricter import/export and security protocols.

  • Longer Bank Account Approvals: Banks apply enhanced due diligence for DAFZA companies involved in international trade or high-value goods.

  • Regulatory Approvals for Sensitive Sectors: Some industries (aviation, logistics, IT) require external approvals before licensing.

Annual Audit & Renewal Obligations: Mandatory audits and renewal filings can be time-consuming without professional support.

Why Choose Us

Setting up a company in DAFZA can be complex but with The Capital Zone, it becomes effortless.

Our experienced consultants handle every stage of your DAFZA business setup, from licensing to tax registration and ongoing compliance.

Our Services Include:

  • Company Registration & Licensing
  • Office / Warehouse Solutions
  • Visa & Immigration Processing
  • Corporate Bank Account Opening
  • Accounting & Tax Compliance
  • Business Consultancy & Ongoing Advisory


We’ve helped hundreds of global entrepreneurs establish successful companies in DAFZA and other UAE free zones. Our team ensures your business remains fully compliant while maximizing all free zone benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

DAFZA offers businesses access to global markets, 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate taxes, and world-class infrastructure. Its location near Dubai International Airport makes it an ideal choice for logistics, trade, and export businesses.

DAFZA accommodates businesses in various industries, including trading, logistics, aviation, IT, and industrial manufacturing. We help you obtain the appropriate license for your business activities.

Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on document preparation and approvals.

Companies established in DAFZA can operate internationally and within free zones in the UAE. To conduct business within mainland UAE, additional approvals or partnerships may be required.

Logistics, aviation, IT, trading, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce are among the most popular sectors.

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