DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) is a world-class financial centre with its own legal system, court, and regulatory framework. This guide covers how to register a company in DIFC.
Step 1: Determine Your DIFC Category
DIFC licences fall into three main categories: Regulated Activity (financial services, fund management, insurance — requires DFSA authorisation), Non-Regulated Activity (professional services, technology, education, retail), and Ancillary Service Provider (accounting, legal, corporate services). Most non-financial companies fall under Non-Regulated Activity.
Step 2: Choose a Business Establishment Type
DIFC entity types: DIFC Company (local company — LLC or single shareholder company), DIFC Branch (branch of a non-DIFC company), and Foundation (for charitable or family wealth structures). For most businesses, a DIFC Company is the right choice.
Step 3: Engage a DIFC Registered Agent
All DIFC companies must appoint a Licensed Registered Agent (RA) — a firm licensed by the DIFC Registrar of Companies. The RA handles your incorporation paperwork, provides a registered office address, and maintains statutory registers. RA fees: AED 3,000–8,000/year for basic services.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Your RA submits: company name reservation (DIFC portal), business plan and description of activities, shareholder and director KYC documents (passport, proof of address, source of funds), and constitutional documents (Articles of Association). DIFC reviews applications within 5–15 business days.
Step 5: Pay DIFC Registration Fees
DIFC registration fees: Company registration AED 8,000–15,000 (one-time) + annual licence fee AED 18,000–30,000 for a standard non-regulated company. Total first-year cost (excluding office): AED 26,000–45,000.
Step 6: Obtain Visas and Banking
DIFC companies can sponsor UAE residence visas. Apply for visas through the GDRFA Dubai portal using your DIFC licence details. For banking, DIFC has several onsite banks (Mashreq International, Standard Chartered DIFC, Citi) that are familiar with DIFC entities and can open accounts faster than mainland banks.