IFZA Free Zone
Company Formation

IFZA Free Zone Company Formation provides entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses with a fast and cost-effective way to establish a company in Dubai. Operating from Dubai Silicon Oasis under the regulatory framework of the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority, IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) offers licence packages starting from AED 12,900 (Zero Visa Package), with licences commonly issued within 2 to 5 working days. Unlike other Dubai free zones, IFZA operates exclusively through an authorised Professional Partner network, which means pricing may vary between providers depending on the services included.

Zone at a Glance
RegulatorIFZA, under Hamriyah Free Zone Authority framework
LocationDubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Operating ModelAuthorised Professional Partner
Designated Zone No (standard UAE VAT)
Entry-Level LicenceFrom AED 12,900 / year
Paid-Up CapitalNo fixed statutory minimum
Annual AuditGenerally required
Remote SetupYes, except visa biometrics
IFZA REGISTERED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
IFZA Free Zone 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 IFZA?

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) is one of the UAE’s fastest-growing business jurisdictions, offering IFZA Free Zone company formation solutions for entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses looking to establish a presence in Dubai. Originally established in Fujairah, IFZA later expanded its primary operations to Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), where its headquarters and reception are now located.

Operating under the regulatory framework of the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority in Sharjah, IFZA has a distinctive business-to-business operating model. Rather than accepting applications directly from entrepreneurs, IFZA works exclusively through a global network of authorised Professional Partners. Every company is incorporated through one of these partners, which explains why pricing can vary between providers even though the underlying licence fees are issued by the same authority.

As an authorised Professional Partner, IncHub assists clients throughout the incorporation process while providing guidance tailored to their business objectives. Competitive licensing fees, over 1,500 approved business activities, flexible office solutions, and a streamlined registration process make IFZA an attractive choice for startups, SMEs, consultants, trading businesses, and international investors seeking a Dubai-based corporate presence.

The Ecosystem

Partner-Led Dubai Hub

Operating Model

Professional Partner Network

IFZA operates exclusively through authorised Professional Partners. IncHub is an authorised IFZA partner providing end-to-end incorporation services.

Location

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Headquarters and reception located at DSO, Dubai, providing easy access to Dubai International Airport and major commercial areas.

Setup Speed

2 to 5 Working Days

Licences are commonly issued within 2 to 5 working days once all documentation has been approved.

Ideal Profiles

Businesses IFZA Is Built For

IFZA free zone is designed for entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses seeking a cost-effective and flexible way to establish a company in Dubai. It is particularly well suited for:

Startups & Freelancers

Solo consultants, freelancers, and early-stage startups looking for an affordable Dubai-based company with minimal setup costs.

International Traders

International traders and e-commerce businesses that do not require bonded warehousing or port-based logistics.

Holding Companies

Holding companies and investors seeking a Zero Visa Package without a UAE residency requirement.

Small Teams & SMEs

Small businesses planning to scale from one to six visas without committing to a large physical office.

Speed-Focused Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs who value speed, as an IFZA trade licence is commonly issued within 2 to 5 working days once the required documentation is approved.

Not Suitable For

Businesses needing bonded warehousing, advanced logistics, or industry-specific ecosystems may be better suited to specialist free zones.

Sector Profile

What IFZA Is Famous For

IFZA Dubai Freezone has earned a strong reputation as one of Dubai’s most cost-effective and accessible business jurisdictions. With competitive licensing fees, flexible visa packages, and over 1,500 approved business activities, it is a preferred destination for entrepreneurs seeking a practical route to establishing a UAE business.

The Core Commercial Case

Cost-effective Dubai presence. Many entrepreneurs assume that establishing a Dubai company requires a substantial investment. In reality, IFZA business setup cost is considerably lower than many premium free zones, while still providing 100% foreign ownership, residency visa eligibility, and a compliant UAE business entity through its Professional Partner network.

Consulting & Professional Services

Management and strategy consulting firms, HR firms, marketing agencies, and IT service providers.

Software & IT Services

Software development, digital infrastructure, and technology service providers looking for an affordable Dubai presence.

E-Commerce & Digital Marketing

Online retailers, digital marketing agencies, content creation, and e-commerce businesses without warehousing requirements.

Trading & Holding Structures

General trading companies, international holding companies, and regional headquarters structures.

Media & Creative

Creative agencies, media production companies, and content creation businesses.

Online Education & Coaching

Online education platforms, coaching businesses, and early-stage startups seeking an affordable Dubai business presence.

Designated Zone for VAT Purposes

No. IFZA is not classified as a Designated Zone under UAE VAT law (Cabinet Decision No. 59), so standard UAE VAT rules apply to goods and services supplied within the free zone. The tax benefits of an IFZA setup come from potential Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) corporate tax treatment, subject to eligibility, together with 100% foreign ownership rather than from VAT exemptions on goods transactions.

Structures & Requirements

Licence Types, Company Structures & Share Capital

Explore the licence types and company structures available in IFZA Free Zone.

Licensing

License Types Available

Professional Licence: Consultants, marketing agencies, HR firms, IT service providers, and other service-based businesses.
Commercial Licence: Trading, import, export, distribution, and general trading activities.
Industrial Licence: Businesses involved in approved light manufacturing and industrial operations.
Holding Company Licence: Businesses managing investments, intellectual property, or ownership of subsidiary companies.
Media Licence: Creative agencies, media production, content creation, and related activities.
E-Commerce Licence: Online retailers and digital businesses selling products or services through online platforms.
All businesses are incorporated as Free Zone Companies (FZCOs). Up to three business activities can typically be combined under a single licence without additional charges, while extra activities are available for an additional fee.
Structures & Capital

Company Structures

FZCO (Free Zone Company)

The standard operating structure, supporting both single-shareholder and multi-shareholder ownership. No fixed statutory minimum paid-up capital.

Branch (UAE/Foreign)

For companies already registered in the UAE or incorporated outside the UAE, including offshore entities.

IFZA Offshore

Designed for international holding and cross-border ownership structures that do not require a UAE operating presence or residency visas.

Requirements
Shareholder identification and supporting documentation for incorporation.
Trade name reservation compliant with UAE naming regulations.
No physical presence required for incorporation; only for visa biometrics.
Share Capital

IFZA does not impose a fixed statutory minimum paid-up capital. An IFZA company holds its own legal identity and can open branches outside the free zone, subject to the relevant approvals from other authorities. Confirm the exact requirements for your specific licence and structure directly with IFZA.

Setup Costs

IFZA Setup Costs at a Glance

Expect an entry-level licence from AED 12,900 (Zero Visa Package), with visa packages priced incrementally. Additional costs such as visa processing, Emirates ID, medical testing, the establishment card, and health insurance are charged separately.

Zero Visa Package

From AED 12,900 for holding companies, investors and businesses not requiring a UAE residency visa.

One to Three Visa Packages

AED 14,900 to AED 20,000 depending on the number of visas required, for small teams and growing businesses.

Six Visa Package

From AED 25,000 for businesses requiring a larger team allocation.

Multi-Year Discounts

Discounted pricing generally available for two-year and three-year registrations.

Additional Costs

Visa processing, medical examinations, Emirates ID, establishment card fees, and health insurance are charged separately across the UAE.

IFZA Cost Calculator

Not sure what your business setup will cost? Receive a personalised, itemised quote based on your activity, licence and company structure—in under 2 minutes.

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

Formation Guide

The 8-Step IFZA Formation Process

Eight stages from engaging a Professional Partner to opening a corporate bank account.

1
Engage a Partner
Day 1
Begin by working with an authorised Professional Partner such as IncHub. IFZA processes applications exclusively through its partner network.
2
Choose Licence & Activities
Day 1 – 2
Select the most suitable licence category. Combine up to three approved activities under a single licence for greater operational flexibility.
3
Reserve Trade Name
Day 1 – 2
Select and reserve a company name that complies with the UAE’s trade naming regulations before proceeding.
4
Submit Documents
Day 2 – 3
Provide shareholder identification and supporting documentation through your Professional Partner for incorporation.
5
Select Visa Package
Day 2 – 3
Choose the visa allocation that best suits your operational requirements, from Zero Visa to multiple visa packages.
6
Licence Issuance
2 – 5 business days
Pay government fees, sign incorporation documents, and receive your IFZA trade licence, commonly issued within 2 to 5 working days.
7
Visas
3 – 6 weeks
Complete the required medical examination and Emirates ID biometric appointment to finalise residency visa processing.
8
Bank Account
4 – 6 weeks
Open a corporate bank account—a separate process from licensing, handled directly with your chosen UAE bank.
Key Benefits

Why Businesses Choose IFZA

Cost-Effective Entry into Dubai

Licence packages start from AED 12,900, making IFZA one of Dubai’s most accessible free zones for entrepreneurs and investors.

Extensive Business Activity Options

Over 1,500 approved business activities across professional services, commercial trading, industrial, media, e-commerce, and holding structures.

Simplified Remote Incorporation

Most incorporation stages can be completed remotely. An in-person visit is only needed for residency visa formalities such as medical testing and Emirates ID biometrics.

Offshore Structures for International Ownership

IFZA provides dedicated Offshore entities for international holding and cross-border ownership structures without a UAE operating presence.

Authorised Professional Partner Support

As an authorised IFZA Professional Partner, IncHub provides end-to-end guidance on licence selection, documentation, visa options, and regulatory requirements.

Consider Alternatives

When IFZA Isn’t the Right Fit

Bonded Warehousing & Logistics

If you need bonded warehousing, port-based logistics, or large-scale industrial infrastructure, JAFZA or KEZAD may be better suited.

Regulated Financial Services

If your business needs FSRA regulation, ADGM common law jurisdiction or DFSA oversight, IFZA provides no pathway to those frameworks.

Commodities Trading

For commodities trading requiring DMCC’s specific ecosystem, DMCC is the specialist zone designed for that activity.

Regulated Healthcare

If your activity requires specific healthcare regulatory frameworks, specialist health free zones may offer more direct pathways.

IncHub compares IFZA against DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA, and other specialist free zones before recommending it; IFZA is strongest when cost-efficiency, speed, remote setup, and a broad activity list are the primary business requirements.

Free Zone Comparison

IFZA vs DMCC vs JAFZA

Dubai’s three leading free zones serve very different business models. IncHub compares each one so you can choose the authority that matches what your business actually needs, not just the most recognisable name.

Factor IFZA Free Zone DMCC JAFZA
Core Industries Consulting, IT, Trading, E-commerce, Holding Commodities, Trading, Professional Services Logistics, Manufacturing, Industrial
Infrastructure Dubai Silicon Oasis, flexible office solutions JLT business district, Grade A offices Jebel Ali Port, warehouses, industrial land
Entry Cost Excellent Good Premium Investment
Warehousing Not available Limited Excellent
Setup Speed 2–5 working days 3–7 working days Typically 5–10 working days
Entry Licence Cost From AED 12,900 From AED 15,000+ Custom quotation based on activity
Best For Startups & SMEs International trading companies Manufacturing & logistics businesses
Ideal Company Types Consultants, traders, holding companies, e-commerce Commodity traders, professional services Manufacturing, warehousing, import/export

IncHub holds direct relationships across Dubai’s free zones, helping you choose the one that best fits your sector and budget, not just the one with the strongest brand.

How IncHub Helps

How IncHub Can Help You Set Up in IFZA

As an authorised IFZA Professional Partner, IncHub provides end-to-end support for businesses looking to complete IFZA company formation efficiently and compliantly.

End-to-End Company Setup

Complete IFZA free zone company setup through the authorised Professional Partner network, from initial assessment to licence issuance.

Business Suitability Assessment

Compare IFZA with DMCC, JAFZA, and other specialist free zones based on your activity, budget, and operational requirements.

Licence & Visa Guidance

Guidance on selecting the most appropriate licence type and visa package for your business, including IFZA Offshore advisory.

Remote Incorporation Support

Document preparation and application management, completed remotely without requiring a UAE visit during incorporation.

Bank Account & Compliance

Corporate bank account assistance with UAE banks familiar with IFZA entities, plus ongoing compliance support including ESR, annual audit, UBO, and FTA amendments.

Ready to Establish Your Business in IFZA?

Start your IFZA Free Zone Company Formation with expert guidance from IncHub. We will help you choose the right licence and structure for a seamless setup.

Compare IFZA against other free zones before you commit. Book a free review call.

Prefer to read it yourself first?

Read the Free Zone Guide →
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped entrepreneurs and international businesses establish their companies in IFZA through our authorised Professional Partner network.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
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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

Ready to Establish Your Business in IFZA?

Start your IFZA Free Zone Company Formation with expert guidance from IncHub. We will help you choose the right licence and structure for a seamless setup.

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