Business Setup Services within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
If you’re considering expanding your financial services to Dubai, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) offers a premier gateway to the Middle East, southwestern Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa. As a leader in the financial services industry, Dahhan Business Services offers A-Z, door-to-door business setup services within the DIFC, ensuring your company’s operations are up and running swiftly and seamlessly.
Why Choose DIFC for Your Business Setup?
The DIFC, established in 2004, is a leading global financial hub in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. With world-class infrastructure, a robust legal framework aligned with English common law, and a 0% tax rate on profits and income, the DIFC provides an ideal environment for financial institutions and related businesses.
Key Advantages of DIFC
Strategic Location
Positioned between the East and West, connecting markets that span a quarter of the world’s population.
Regulatory Framework
DIFC has its own independent regulatory authority called the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), which oversees financial entities.
100% Foreign Ownership
No local sponsorship is required here.
Great Connectivity
Proximity to Dubai International Airport which is twenty minutes away from DIFC.
Tax Benefits
0% tax on income and VAT and corporate as per applicable regulations.
State of the Art Infrastructure
Cutting-edge facilities designed to support financial services and professional firms.
How Dahhan Business Services Facilitates a Seamless DIFC Business Setup
At Dahhan Business Services, we offer a full suite of services designed to make your business setup in DIFC as smooth as possible. From initial consultations to securing your license and visas, we handle everything with the utmost professionalism and expertise.

A to Z, Door-to-Door Services
By leveraging our deep understanding of regulatory requirements within the DIFC, we ensure that your application process is handled efficiently without any hidden costs. Here’s what our DIFC business setup service includes:
Business Plan Development
Crafting a comprehensive business plan tailored to meet DIFC’s stringent requirements.
Company Registration
We handle all the paperwork required for registering your company within DIFC.
Licensing
Assisting you in obtaining the appropriate trading license for your business activities.
Bank Account Setup
Guidance through opening a corporate bank account in Dubai’s top-tier banks.
Office Space Solutions
Securing office space options ranging from flexi desks to full commercial offices within DIFC itself.
Visa Processing
Quick and efficient processing of employee visas for you and your staff.
Ongoing Support
Post-setup services such as accounting, payroll management, and compliance checks.
Procedure for Setting Up a Business in DIFC
Navigating the business setup process within DIFC can seem daunting, but Dahhan Business Services makes it straightforward. Although the specific procedural steps can be complex, Dahhan simplifies them into a few major categories:
Step 1Initial Consultation and Business Plan Approval
A consultation meeting where we discuss your business activities and formulate a robust business plan that meets DIFC regulations.
Step 2Application Submission and Company Registration
We handle all the paperwork and liaise directly with the DIFC authorities so that you don’t need to worry about any legal complexities.
Step 3Office Space Allocation
Based on your needs, we facilitate the allocation or leasing of office space within the DIFC premises.
Step 4License Acquisition and Bank Account Opening
Before obtaining your license, you need an office space agreement which Dahhan helps you secure. Alongside assisting in opening corporate bank accounts.
Step 5Visa Processing
Once your license has been granted, Dahhan helps you process visas for directors and staff members if required.
The DIFC provides unparalleled advantages for financial service firms looking to tap into growing markets across regions. With Dahhan Business Services handling every detail needed for business setup within DIFC, you can focus on what truly matters—growing your business.
Are you ready to make Dubai your next business destination? Contact Dahhan Business Services today to embark on your hassle-free DIFC business setup journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of businesses can operate in DIFC?
DIFC primarily hosts financial services firms, professional service providers, and ancillary businesses supporting the financial sector. This includes banks, investment firms, insurance companies, fintech startups, and legal/consulting firms.
How long does it take to set up a company in DIFC?
The typical DIFC company formation process takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the license type and completeness of documentation. With Dahhan's expert assistance, this can often be expedited.
What are the costs of setting up in DIFC?
Costs vary based on license type and office space requirements, typically ranging from AED 30,000 to AED 50,000 for initial setup. Dahhan provides transparent pricing and can help optimize your setup costs.
Does DIFC offer tax benefits?
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) offers several tax benefits to businesses operating within its jurisdiction. These include: 1. Corporate Tax Benefits 0% Corporate Tax on most businesses for 50 years (renewable). 9% Corporate Tax applies only to businesses earning over AED 375,000 annually, in line with the UAE's corporate tax regime. 2. No Personal Income Tax Individuals working or investing in DIFC do not pay personal income tax. 3. No Withholding Tax No tax on dividends, interest, or other payments made from DIFC entities. 4. Full Capital and Profit Repatriation Businesses can freely repatriate 100% of their profits and capital without restrictions. 5. VAT Exemptions VAT (5%) applies to most goods and services, but certain financial services may be exempt or zero-rated. 6. Double Taxation Treaties DIFC companies benefit from the UAE's extensive double taxation treaty network, reducing tax burdens for international businesses.
Can non-financial businesses operate in DIFC?
While DIFC focuses on financial services, it does accommodate certain non-financial businesses that support the financial ecosystem, subject to approval from the DIFC Authority.
What banking services are available in DIFC?
DIFC hosts over 300 financial institutions including global banks, investment firms, and wealth managers offering corporate banking, private banking, and investment services.
How does DIFC compare to other Dubai free zones?
DIFC specializes in financial services with its own legal/regulatory system, while other free zones cater to different industries. DIFC offers superior international recognition for financial businesses.