Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA): The Ultimate Guide to Company Formation and Business Setup
Dubai has long positioned itself as a global business hub, attracting international investors with its strategic location, investor-friendly policies, and thriving economy. Among its many free zones, DAFZA—short for Dubai Airport Freezone—stands out as a premium destination for global enterprises, SMEs, and startups aiming to enter the UAE and Middle East markets.
In this comprehensive guide, we at Dahhan Business Services will explore everything you need to know about Dubai Airport Freezone, including its benefits, setup process, business opportunities, and how our expert team can help with your Dubai Airport Freezone business setup quickly and compliantly.
What is DAFZA?
DAFZA (Dubai Airport Freezone) is one of the most advanced and prestigious free zones in the United Arab Emirates. Established in 1996, Dubai Airport Freezone offers a business-friendly ecosystem that caters to over 2,000 companies from more than 20+ industry sectors across 100+ countries.
Strategically located adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB), Dubai Airport Freezone offers seamless logistics, customs efficiency, and immediate access to global markets. It’s an ideal choice for companies that rely heavily on imports, exports, air freight, and international mobility.
Why Choose DAFZA?
The Dubai Airport Freezone is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious and dynamic economic zones in the UAE. Here are the top reasons why entrepreneurs and global firms choose the DAFZA freezone:
1. Strategic Location
DAFZA’s proximity to Dubai International Airport allows businesses to leverage the region’s busiest airport for cargo and passengers. This provides excellent logistical benefits for companies dealing in electronics, pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, perishables, and more.
2. 100% Foreign Ownership
Like most UAE freezones, Dubai Airport Freezone offers full foreign ownership, allowing international investors complete control of their companies without the need for a local sponsor.
3. Tax Benefits
Dubai Airport Freezone offers 0% corporate tax, 0% personal income tax, and no import or export duties. Additionally, businesses enjoy full repatriation of profits and capital.
4. Advanced Infrastructure
The Dubai Airport Freezone is equipped with modern office spaces, light industrial units, warehouses, logistics centers, and innovative IT infrastructure. This ensures a seamless business operation environment for all industries.
5. Customs Integration
Dubai Airport Freezone has an on-site customs office, allowing for faster cargo clearance and reduced logistical bottlenecks—ideal for companies in the import-export and manufacturing sectors.
6. Wide Range of Business Activities
From IT and telecommunications to logistics, aviation, trading, pharmaceuticals, and financial services, the Dubai Airport Freezone supports a wide array of business activities and licensing options.
Who Should Set Up in DAFZA?
While DAFZA company formation is open to nearly all sectors, the following industries thrive particularly well in the freezone:
- Aviation and Aerospace
- Logistics and Freight Forwarding
- Electronics and High-Tech Equipment
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
- Food and Beverage
- Automotive and Spare Parts
- IT Services and Telecom
- Fashion and Luxury Goods
- Consultancy and Professional Services
If your business requires fast international shipping, global customer access, and cutting-edge infrastructure, Dubai DAFZA is the ideal place for you.
Types of Licenses Offered in DAFZA
When considering a DAFZA freezone business setup, choosing the correct license type is critical. Dubai Airport Freezone offers several license categories tailored to different business models:
1. Trade License
Allows companies to import, export, distribute, and store goods and products.
2. Service License
Permits businesses to carry out services such as consulting, IT services, logistics, and marketing.
3. Industrial License
Enables manufacturing, light assembly, and production within the Dubai Airport Freezone premises.
4. E-Commerce License
Facilitates online trading of goods and services across digital platforms.
5. General Trading License
Covers a wide variety of unrelated product categories under a single license—ideal for diversified trading businesses.
Types of Company Structures in DAFZA
Depending on your business goals and ownership structure, you can choose from different legal entities during your DAFZA company formation:
1. Freezone Company (FZCO)
A limited liability company with multiple shareholders—ideal for joint ventures or group ownership structures.
2. Freezone Establishment (FZE)
A company owned by a single shareholder, either an individual or a corporate entity.
3. Branch of an Existing Company
Companies registered outside the UAE (international or mainland UAE) can open a branch in Dubai Airport Freezone without altering their existing legal structure.
Step-by-Step Dubai Airport Freezone Business Setup Process
At Dahhan Business Services, we simplify the DAFZA business setup journey into a few straightforward steps. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Business Activity Selection
Identify the type of license and activities that match your business model. Our consultants assist you in determining the correct scope.
Step 2: Name Reservation and Initial Approval
Submit your preferred company name and basic documents for preliminary approval by the Dubai Airport Freezone authority.
Step 3: Documentation and Legal Paperwork
Prepare and notarize all necessary documents, including shareholder passports, proof of address, and business plans.
Step 4: Lease Office Space
Choose between a flexi desk, private office, warehouse, or industrial unit within DAFZA, depending on your needs.
Step 5: License Issuance and Company Registration
Upon approval, DAFZA issues the business license and corporate documents, including the Certificate of Incorporation and Memorandum of Association.
Step 6: Bank Account and Visa Processing
With your company formed, we assist in opening a UAE corporate bank account and processing visas for investors and employees.
Required Documents for DAFZA Company Formation
Here are the standard documents needed for a successful Dubai Airport Freezone company formation:
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport-sized photos
- Business plan or brief activity description
- Bank reference letter (for corporate shareholders)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (for branches)
- Proof of address (utility bill or tenancy contract)
For corporate entities setting up branches or subsidiaries, additional documents such as board resolutions and certificates of incumbency may be required.
Office and Facility Options in DAFZA
Dubai Airport Freezone offers a variety of high-end office and industrial spaces tailored to different business needs:
- Executive Office Suites: Fully furnished spaces with all amenities
- Smart Desk or Flexi Desk: Ideal for startups and freelancers
- Light Industrial Units: For manufacturing, assembly, or logistics
- Warehousing: Climate-controlled, scalable storage units
- Retail Spaces: For F&B and boutique services within the DAFZA community
This flexibility makes the DAFZA freezone business setup suitable for both small businesses and multinational corporations.
Living and Working in Dubai DAFZA
Being located in Dubai DAFZA gives entrepreneurs and employees access to the best of Dubai’s lifestyle:
- Proximity to five-star hotels, malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Quick transport via Dubai Metro and major highways
- Access to world-class healthcare and education facilities
- Multicultural community and safe environment
- High-speed internet and smart city infrastructure
These elements collectively make the DAFZA free zone a highly desirable location for both business and living.
Cost of Setting Up a Company in DAFZA
The DAFZA company formation cost depends on several factors, including:
- License type
- Office space selection
- Number of visas required
- Legal structure (FZE, FZCO, or branch)
- Additional services like PRO support or nominee directorship
Typically, a DAFZA business setup starts at approximately AED 25,000 to AED 35,000 for a basic setup, excluding optional add-ons and visa packages. Our team at Dahhan Business Services provides tailored cost estimates based on your specific needs.
How Dahhan Business Services Can Help
At Dahhan Business Services, we are your trusted partner for DAFZA freezone business setup. With years of experience in the UAE’s freezone ecosystem, our consultants ensure a fast, cost-effective, and compliant company formation process.
Our Services Include:
- Business activity consultation
- Company name reservation
- Documentation and legal paperwork
- Office space leasing assistance
- License application and submission
- PRO and visa services
- Bank account setup
- Ongoing compliance and renewal support
From the first consultation to final licensing, we manage every detail of your Dubai Airport Freezone company formation so you can focus on growing your business.
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Let the experts at Dahhan Business Services guide you through a seamless Dubai Airport Freezone business setup experience.
✅ Contact us today for a free consultation and custom quote tailored to your business needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does DAFZA stand for?
Dubai Airport Freezone stands for Dubai Airport Freezone, a premier freezone adjacent to Dubai International Airport that supports trade, logistics, tech, and service industries.
Can I own 100% of my company in DAFZA?
Yes. Dubai Airport Freezone allows 100% foreign ownership, with no requirement for a local sponsor or UAE national partner.
How long does it take to register a company in DAFZA?
With all documents in order, DAFZA company formation can be completed in as little as 7 to 14 working days.
What’s the difference between DAFZA and other free zones?
DAFZA’s airport proximity, customs integration, and modern infrastructure make it ideal for companies with international logistics, air cargo needs, and global operations.
What is the minimum office requirement in DAFZA?
Dubai Airport Freezone offers flexible desk options for startups and executive office spaces, as well as industrial units for larger operations. A physical address is mandatory for all license holders.
Can I open a bank account after setting up a DAFZA business?
Yes. Once your license is issued, you can open a UAE corporate bank account. We assist clients through the process with banking partners.
Is there VAT in DAFZA?
Yes. Like all UAE jurisdictions, Dubai Airport Freezone is subject to 5% VAT on applicable goods and services. However, many transactions between freezone entities may be exempt or zero-rated.
Final Thoughts
DAFZA is more than just a freezone—it is a high-performance gateway for international business. Whether you’re looking to import electronics, export medical supplies, manage global logistics, or launch a new tech startup, Dubai Airport Freezone offers all the right tools for success.
With world-class infrastructure, favorable business laws, zero tax policies, and immediate airport access, DAFZA continues to be one of the UAE’s most prestigious free zones.
Partner with Dahhan Business Services today to launch your business in DAFZA with ease and confidence.
