Home/ UAE Free Zones/ Dubai/ Dubai Airport Free Zone

Dubai Airport
Free Zone (DAFZA)

DAFZA is a 1996-established Dubai Government free zone sitting directly against Dubai International Airport, now regulated under the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority. Licences start from around AED 15,000 a year, with a realistic first-year setup of AED 42,500 to AED 50,000, and its Dual Licence option lets a DAFZA company trade with the Dubai mainland without a separate physical office there.

Zone at a Glance
RegulatorDAFZA, under DIEZA
Launched1996
Companies Hosted1,600+ multinationals
Designated Zone Yes (UAE VAT)
Entry-Level LicenceFrom AED 15,000 / year
First-Year SetupAED 42,500 – 50,000+
Annual AuditGenerally required
Mainland AccessDual Licence with DET
DAFZA REGISTERED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
DAFZA Certificate of Partnership

IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services in accordance with its trade licence. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

Licence No.
1017774
Issue Date
28/12/2021
Valid Through
27/12/2026
Zone Overview

What Is DAFZA?

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) was established in 1996 by the Government of Dubai on land adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB). Now operating under the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZA), it is one of the UAE’s leading free zones for aviation, trading, logistics, IT, pharmaceuticals and high-value industries. Businesses seeking company formation in Dubai Airport Free Zone benefit from its strategic airport location, streamlined licensing, premium infrastructure and global trade connectivity.

Home to over 1,600 multinational companies, DAFZA offers 24-hour customs services, rapid cargo clearance and direct airport access, making it ideal for air freight, pharmaceuticals, electronics, jewellery and perishables. The business setup cost in DAFZA varies based on the licence type, office requirements, visa allocation and business activity.

Why DAFZA

Fenced Against Dubai International Airport

Location

Adjacent to DXB

Direct access to Dubai International Airport, moving cargo from aircraft to bonded warehouses within minutes.

Customs

24-Hour Clearance

Round-the-clock customs services and single-window government services for fast-moving, time-sensitive cargo.

Mainland

Dual Licence with DET

Operate from the free zone and the Dubai mainland without a separate mainland office.

Ideal Profiles

Businesses DAFZA Is Built For

DAFZA is an airport-anchored zone. The strongest candidates are businesses with an import, export or air freight component where proximity to DXB has genuine operational value.

Aviation Services & Aircraft Maintenance

Aviation services, aircraft maintenance and aviation-related trading businesses.

Pharma, Healthcare & Life Sciences

Companies requiring fast, temperature-controlled air cargo handling.

Jewellery & High-Value Goods

Jewellery, precious goods and high-value electronics traders relying on air freight and rapid inventory movement.

Mobile Phones & Consumer Electronics

Distributors in one of DAFZA’s established industry sectors.

General Trading, Logistics & Re-Export

Businesses benefiting from DAFZA’s 24/7 customs operations and single-window government services, including those seeking a Dual Licence to also operate on the Dubai mainland.

Not Suitable For

Businesses without an import, export or air freight component, where lower-cost service-focused free zones generally offer better value.

Sector Profile

What DAFZA Is Famous For

Dubai Airport Free Zone is Dubai’s leading airport-based free zone, serving pharmaceutical importers, electronics distributors, aviation spare parts suppliers and time-sensitive logistics operators. Businesses choosing Dubai Airport Free Zone company formation benefit from direct access to Dubai International Airport (DXB), rapid customs clearance and world-class air cargo infrastructure.

The Core Commercial Case

DAFZA is designed for businesses handling time-sensitive, temperature-controlled and high-value goods. It is particularly beneficial for pharmaceutical, cold-chain, aviation and electronics companies, thanks to its direct airport location, rapid customs clearance, and the ability to move cargo from aircraft to bonded warehouses within minutes.

Designated Zone for VAT Purposes

Yes. Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is a Designated Zone under UAE VAT regulations. Qualifying goods transactions may benefit from favourable VAT treatment when the statutory conditions are met, making it attractive for trading, warehousing and re-export businesses. Businesses must still comply with standard 5% UAE VAT on services, and VAT registration is mandatory once the applicable threshold is reached.

Structures & Requirements

Licence Types, Company Structures & Share Capital

Explore the licence types and company structures available in DAFZA.

Licensing

License Types Available

Trade Licence: covers import, export, re-export, distribution and storage the primary licence for trading and logistics businesses in DAFZA.
Service Licence: covers consultancy, professional services and other approved service activities.
Industrial Licence: covers light manufacturing, assembly, packaging and industrial activities, supported by DAFZA Industrial Park facilities.
Dual Licence with DED: operate in both the free zone and the Dubai mainland through a Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) licence, without a separate mainland office.
A standard DAFZA licence typically allows up to three business activities within the same category. Activities requiring external approvals, or falling outside standard licence categories, may require additional regulatory clearances.
Structures & Capital

Company Structures

FZE

Free Zone Establishment: a single shareholder, individual or corporate.

FZCO

Free Zone Company: two or more shareholders.

Branch

A presence in DAFZA for an existing UAE or foreign company, with no separate legal entity.

Licence Scope
Up to three business activities within the same category.
A DAFZA facility, from a flexi-desk to a warehouse.
Extra clearances for regulated or non-standard activities.
Share Capital

Minimum share capital requirements vary by business activity and licence type, particularly for regulated and industrial businesses. Companies planning business setup in Dubai Airport Free Zone should confirm the latest share capital requirements directly with DAFZA during the company formation process.

Setup Costs

DAFZA Setup Costs at a Glance

Figures reflect commonly reported 2026 pricing for standard Trade and Service licences and exclude Emirates ID, medical testing and establishment card renewal, which apply UAE-wide. Industrial and Dual Licence categories carry their own fee structures and should be quoted directly against your specific activity.

Trade / Service Licence (up to 3 activities)

From approx. AED 15,000 to 15,020 per year.

Flexi-Desk or Office Space

From approx. AED 10,000, scaling with size.

Visa Fee (per person)

Approx. AED 3,950.

Realistic First-Year All-In Setup

Approx. AED 42,500 to 50,000+, depending on activity and facility.

Industrial & Dual Licence

Separate fee structures; quoted directly against your specific activity.

DAFZA Cost Calculator

Not sure what it’ll cost? Get an exact, itemised quote for your specific activity and structure in under 2 minutes.

Prefer to talk it through first? Book a free consultation call.

Formation Guide

The 5-Step DAFZA Formation Process

Five stages from activity selection to a fully operational bank account. Each links to a full guide below.

1
Choose Activity & Licence
1 – 2 business days
Choose your business activity and licence type Trade, Service, Industrial or Dual Licence and select your structure: FZE, FZCO or Branch.
2
Name & Application
2 – 4 business days
Reserve a trade name in line with DAFZA naming rules, submit the application and supporting documents, and obtain any approvals needed for regulated activities.
3
Fees & Licence
7 – 10 business days
Pay the registration, licence and facility fees and complete the incorporation documents. Standard activities are licensed within 7 to 10 working days; up to 28 days for complex ones.
4
Visas
7 – 10 business days
Apply for UAE residency visas under your facility’s visa quota, valid for 2 years, including the in-person medical test and Emirates ID biometric appointment.
5
Bank Account
4 – 6 weeks
Open a corporate bank account for your new company a separate process from incorporation, handled directly with your chosen UAE bank.
Key Benefits

Why Businesses Choose DAFZA

Direct Airport Access

Immediate access to Dubai International Airport (DXB), making DAFZA ideal for air cargo and logistics businesses.

Established Business Ecosystem

Home to 1,600+ companies across the pharmaceutical, electronics and logistics sectors.

Strong Aviation Sector Focus

Particularly suited to aviation, aerospace and airport-related businesses operating alongside DXB.

Specialised Cold-Chain Facilities

Pharmaceutical warehousing and temperature-controlled storage infrastructure for healthcare, biotech and perishables businesses.

Dual Licence Option

Eligible DAFZA companies can operate in both the free zone and the Dubai mainland without a separate mainland entity.

Consider Alternatives

When DAFZA Isn’t the Right Fit

No Air Freight Requirement

For general trading or logistics without air freight, JAFZA may offer more cost-effective port access and larger facilities.

Cost Is Your Main Priority

If you want the lowest-cost Dubai company setup, IFZA and Meydan typically offer lower entry costs than DAFZA.

Sea Freight Operations

If your logistics are primarily sea freight-based, JAFZA and Dubai Maritime City provide more suitable maritime infrastructure.

Abu Dhabi-Focused Operations

If your business needs proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport, ADAFZ is generally the better option.

IncHub compares Dubai Airport Free Zone with JAFZA, Dubai South and IFZA before making recommendations. DAFZA delivers the greatest value when airport access and air cargo operations are central to the business model.

Free Zone Comparison

DAFZA vs JAFZA vs Dubai South

Dubai has three major trade-linked free zones built around similar industries but different infrastructure. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches your actual trade flow, not just the nearest airport.

Factor Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) Dubai South
Core Industries Aviation, pharma, electronics, trading Trading, manufacturing, logistics Aviation, logistics, e-commerce
Major Infrastructure Dubai International Airport (DXB) Jebel Ali Port + Al Maktoum Airport Al Maktoum International Airport
Air Freight Businesses Excellent Moderate Excellent
Sea Freight Businesses Limited Excellent Moderate
Cold-Chain & Pharma Facilities Specialised Available Available
Warehousing Facilities Available Extensive Extensive
Mainland Access Dual Licence with DET Via distributor or dual setup Via distributor or dual setup
Ideal Company Types Pharma, electronics, aviation parts, high-value trade Trading, manufacturing, logistics, distribution Logistics, e-commerce, aviation support

IncHub holds direct relationships with DAFZA, JAFZA and Dubai South, helping you choose the free zone that best fits your trade flow and industry, not just the one with the lowest headline fee.

Compliance

What DAFZA Companies Must Stay Compliant With

Standard UAE federal compliance obligations that apply to all free zone companies corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence renewal, visa renewal and FTA amendments are documented in full in IncHub’s UAE Free Zone Compliance Guide. The DAFZA-specific obligations that differ between zones are listed below.

Annual Audit (Mandatory)

DAFZA companies must submit annual audited financial statements prepared through a UAE-registered auditor; audited accounts are also required by most banks as independent financial verification.

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

Companies carrying out a relevant activity including holding, distribution, fund management, banking, insurance, shipping, headquarters, lease-finance and intellectual property activities must file annual ESR notifications and, where applicable, full ESR reports.

GACA and Aviation Compliance

Businesses involved in aviation, cargo handling, aircraft services or airside operations must maintain valid GACA approvals and security clearances, separate from DAFZA licence renewals.

DAFZA Compliance Guide

Standard UAE federal compliance obligations for free zone companies corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence and visa renewal, and FTA amendments covered in one detailed guide.

Want IncHub to manage compliance for your DAFZA company? Book a free review call.

Prefer to read it yourself first?

Read the Compliance Guide →
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped businesses set up in Dubai’s leading airport free zone.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
L
L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

Google Verified Review
D
DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

Google Verified Review
C
Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

Google Verified Review
B
BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

Google Verified Review
A
ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

Google Verified Review
O
Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

Google Verified Review
U
Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

Google Verified Review
E
Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

Google Verified Review
C
CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

Google Verified Review
T
Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

Google Verified Review
N
Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

Google Verified Review
W
Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

Google Verified Review
T
Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

Google Verified Review
G
Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

Google Verified Review
N
Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

Google Verified Review
M
Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

Google Verified Review
J
Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

Google Verified Review
D
Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

Google Verified Review
P
Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

Google Verified Review
A
Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

Google Verified Review
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with IncHub

Set Up Your DAFZA Company with IncHub

IncHub manages the full DAFZA process end-to-end free zone assessment and facility selection, GACA coordination and Dual Licence structuring, security clearances, visa processing, bank account introduction, and ongoing ESR and audit compliance. One partner, from application to fully operational.

Al Fajer Business Centre, Al Garhoud, Dubai  |  www.inchub.ae