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IFZA Freezone Company Formation
Looking for a cost-effective way to establish your business in Dubai without compromising on quality? IFZA Free Zone offers exactly that. As one of Dubai’s most business-friendly free zones, the International Free Zone Authority has built a reputation for making company setup straightforward, affordable, and genuinely accessible to entrepreneurs worldwide.
IFZA Dubai stands out in a crowded market of free zones by focusing on what actually matters to business owners. You get 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax on qualifying activities, flexible office solutions, and quick license approval without the premium price tag of older free zones. For startups, SMEs, and international companies testing the UAE market, this combination makes perfect sense.
AED 9,900
Starting Cost
3
Visa Quota
24 Hours
Working Days
100%
Ownership
Why IFZA Free Zone Leads in Business Setup
The International Free Zone Authority launched with a clear mission: to remove the barriers that make Dubai business setup feel complicated and expensive. They’ve succeeded by streamlining processes, offering genuine flexibility, and maintaining competitive pricing that doesn’t sacrifice quality or compliance.
IFZA Business Structures: FZE, FZCO, and More
Choosing the right legal structure for your company formation in IFZA affects everything from liability to shareholding arrangements.
Free Zone Establishment (FZE)
A Free Zone Establishment works for single-shareholder companies. If you’re the sole owner launching your own venture, an FZE provides a simple structure with you maintaining complete control. This structure suits solo entrepreneurs, freelancers expanding into company format, and single-owner businesses.
Free Zone Company (FZCO)
Multiple shareholders need a Free Zone Company structure. FZCO accommodates two to fifty shareholders, making it perfect for partnerships, investor-backed ventures, or family businesses. Shareholding percentages are clearly defined, and governance structures accommodate multiple decision-makers.
Branch Office
Existing companies with operations elsewhere can establish branch offices in the IFZA Free Zone. Your parent company extends into Dubai without creating a separate legal entity. This structure suits established businesses expanding to the UAE market or servicing existing clients who’ve moved to the region.
Holding Company
Investors managing multiple business interests use IFZA holding company structures to consolidate ownership. Your IFZA holding company owns stakes in various operating companies, providing a clean corporate structure and centralised management.
IFZA License Types: Choosing Your Business Activity
The International Free Zone Authority offers various license types covering a wide range of business activities. Selecting the right license ensures your business operates legally and aligns with your operational plans.
Commercial License
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Trading companies need commercial licenses from IFZA. This covers import, export, distribution, and general trading activities. Your commercial license can list multiple trading activities, giving flexibility as your business evolves. E-commerce companies using IFZA for order fulfilment, inventory management, or online retail operations typically operate under commercial licenses.
Service License
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Consultancy services, marketing agencies, business advisory firms, and professional service providers operate under service licenses in IFZA Dubai. This license category covers everything from management consulting to IT services, digital marketing to recruitment.
Consulting License
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Specifically designed for consulting businesses, this license covers specialised advisory services across various industries. Management consultants, strategy advisors, and business consultants operate under this license type, serving clients regionally and internationally.
E-commerce License
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IFZA Free Zone recognises the digital economy's importance and offers dedicated e-commerce licenses. Online retailers, digital marketplace operators, and internet-based businesses benefit from this license designed specifically for digital commerce.
Industrial License
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Manufacturing, assembly, processing, and production activities require industrial licenses. While IFZA is primarily known for trading and services, it accommodates light industrial activities and product assembly operations.
Freelance License
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Independent professionals, freelancers, and solo entrepreneurs can obtain freelance licenses through IFZA company formation. This option suits individual consultants, creative professionals, and service providers operating independently.
IFZA Business Setup Packages: Flexible Options for Every Business
Incorpyfy offers structured packages for IFZA company setup, designed to match different business needs and budgets. Whether you’re testing a business idea, establishing yourself as a freelancer, or launching a full-scale operation, we have a package that fits.
Kickstarter Package
- Business license (1 activity)
- Flexi-desk access
- 0 visa quota
- Business address
- Basic Documents
- Trade name reservation
- Company registration
Freelancer Package
- Freelancer license (select activities)
- Flexi-desk workspace
- 1 visa (3-year validity)
- Business address and mail handling
- Immigration services
- Emirates ID processing
- Trade name approval
- License issuance
Starter Visa Package
- Business license (up to 5 activities)
- Flexi-desk or smart office
- 1 visa quota
- Establishment card
- Immigration processing
- Bank account assistance
- Document attestation
- Priority processing
Growth Package
- Business license (up to 10 activities)
- Smart office or dedicated space
- 3 visa quotas
- Establishment card
- Complete immigration services
- Priority bank account support
- Document attestation and PRO services
- First-year compliance support
Premium Package
- Business license (unlimited activities)
- Dedicated office space
- 5 visa quotas
- Complete immigration services for all visas
- Dedicated account manager
- Guaranteed bank account opening support
- Full PRO services for one year
- Ongoing compliance and advisory
- Emirates ID processing for all visas
IFZA Office Solutions: Flexibility for Every Business
The International Free Zone Authority understands different businesses have different workspace needs.
Flexi-Desk Solutions
- Shared workspace access
- Business address for license
- Mail handling services
- Meeting room access (limited hours)
- Basic business amenities
- Perfect for online businesses
Private Office
- Dedicated private office space
- Premium business address
- Mail & call handling
- Meeting room access (included)
- Reception services
- Ideal for client meetings
Virtual Office
- Business address only
- Mail forwarding services
- Call answering (optional)
- Meeting room access (hourly rates)
- Most cost-effective option
- Perfect for e-commerce
IFZA vs Other Dubai Free Zones: Making the Right Choice
Understanding how IFZA compares to alternatives helps you choose the optimal free zone for your needs.
IFZA Free Zone offers exceptional value for cost-conscious businesses without compromising on quality or compliance. License fees are more affordable than premium free zones like DMCC or DIFC, making IFZA accessible to startups and SMEs.
The quick setup process appeals to entrepreneurs wanting to launch quickly. While some free zones require extensive documentation and lengthy approvals, IFZA maintains streamlined procedures that get businesses operational fast.
However, some businesses might benefit from alternative free zones. Companies in specific industries like media, finance, or technology might prefer specialized free zones designed for those sectors. Businesses requiring extensive physical facilities might choose free zones with more industrial infrastructure.
Incorpyfy assesses your specific requirements honestly. If another free zone better suits your needs, we’ll recommend it directly. Our goal is matching you with the optimal solution, whether that’s IFZA or an alternative.
Documents Required for IFZA Company Formation
Proper documentation ensures smooth processing without delays or rejections.
For Individual Shareholders:
- Valid passport copy with at least six months’ validity
- Recent passport-sized photographs on a white background
- Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement within three months)
- Emirates ID copy if you’re already a UAE resident
- Visa page copies showing your current status
Business Documentation:
- Business plan outlining operations, target market, and projections
- Professional or educational certificates for licensed activities
- Experience letters, if required for specific business activities
- No Objection Certificate from the current sponsor, if applicable
For Corporate Shareholders:
- Certificate of incorporation from the home jurisdiction
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Board resolution approving the Dubai venture and authorising signatories
- Recent audited financial statements
- Good standing certificate
- Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) declaration
- All corporate documents are properly attested through the home country authorities and the UAE embassy
Business Documentation:
- Tenancy contract or office agreement from your chosen workspace provider
- Facility details showing your allocated space
Incorpyfy maintains detailed checklists customised to your specific license type and business structure, ensuring you provide everything needed for a successful application.
Visa Options and Residency Through IFZA
IFZA company setup provides pathways to UAE residency for business owners and employees.
Investor Visa
Company owners qualify for investor visas, typically valid for two or three years. This visa grants you UAE residency, allowing you to live and work in Dubai while managing your business.
Employee Visas
Your IFZA license allows you to sponsor employee visas based on your office space and business activity. Visa allocation scales with your operations, supporting business growth as you expand your team.
Family Sponsorship
Once you hold a valid UAE residence visa through your IFZA company, you can sponsor immediate family members, including your spouse and children. This allows your entire family to relocate to Dubai under your sponsorship.
Multi-Year License Options
IFZA offers multi-year license packages, reducing annual renewal requirements and providing longer-term stability. Combined with multi-year visas, this creates continuity for serious businesses committed to long-term UAE operations.
The IFZA Company Formation Process Step by Step
Understanding the registration process helps you prepare properly and avoid delays.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity and Structure
Start by clearly defining what business activities you’ll conduct and selecting the appropriate license type. Your activities determine your license category, while your ownership structure guides whether you need an FZE or FZCO.
Incorpyfy consultants help clarify activity selection, ensuring your chosen activities align with IFZA Free Zone regulations and your business model.
Step 2: Select Your Trade Name
Your company name must comply with IFZA naming conventions. It should reflect your business activity, avoid prohibited words, and not conflict with existing registered companies. IFZA provides instant name availability checking, so you’ll know immediately if your preferred name works.
Trade names need approval from IFZA authorities before registration proceeds. Choose three name options to increase approval chances if your first choice isn’t available.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documentation
Gather all necessary documents for shareholders and directors. This includes passport copies, recent photographs, proof of address, and Emirates ID copies if applicable. Corporate shareholders need additional documentation, including certificates of incorporation, board resolutions, and attested corporate documents.
Proper document preparation prevents delays. Incorpyfy reviews all documentation before submission, ensuring everything meets IFZA requirements.
Step 4: Submit Application and Pay Fees
Your complete application goes to the International Free Zone Authority for processing. IFZA reviews documentation, verifies information, and conducts necessary due diligence. Processing typically takes just a few working days for complete applications.
License fees depend on your chosen license type, office solution, and visa requirements. Incorpyfy provides detailed fee breakdowns upfront, so you understand all costs before proceeding.
Step 5: Receive Your License and Documents
Once approved, IFZA issues your business license and company registration documents. These prove your company’s legal existence and authorise you to conduct your specified business activities.
Your license includes important details: company name, license number, activities permitted, validity period, and registered office address.
Step 6: Arrange Your Office Space
IFZA offers flexible office solutions from flexi-desks to dedicated offices to warehouse facilities. Your choice depends on your operational needs, visa requirements, and budget. Virtual office solutions work for many digital businesses, while companies needing physical presence choose dedicated spaces.
Step 7: Process Visas and Emirates IDs
With your license issued, you can proceed with visa applications for yourself and employees. Visa allocation depends on your office space and license type. IFZA Dubai visa processing is straightforward, with most applications approved quickly.
Employee visas require additional documentation, including passport copies, photos, and employment contracts. Incorpyfy coordinates visa processing, ensuring applications meet immigration requirements.
Step 8: Open Corporate Bank Account
Banking represents a critical step in business setup in IFZA. UAE banks maintain strict compliance standards, requiring comprehensive documentation about your business activities, expected transaction volumes, and beneficial ownership.
Incorpyfy assists with bank account opening, preparing documentation and coordinating with banks familiar with IFZA company requirements. While we can’t guarantee approval, our experience significantly improves success rates.
Banking and Financial Services for IFZA Companies
Opening a corporate bank account is essential for IFZA business operations.
UAE Banking Requirements
UAE banks require comprehensive documentation showing genuine business activity. You’ll need your IFZA license, passport copies, business plans, contracts or purchase orders proving operations, and financial projections.
Banks conduct thorough due diligence on Ultimate Beneficial Owners, source of funds, and expected transaction patterns. This compliance process has become more rigorous, but it protects the UAE’s financial system integrity.
Bank Account Opening Support
Incorpyfy assists throughout the banking process, preparing documentation, coordinating bank meetings, and following up on applications. Our relationships with banks familiar with IFZA companies improve approval chances significantly.
Different banks suit different business models. Trading companies might need banks with strong trade finance facilities, while service businesses prioritise international transfer capabilities. We match you with appropriate banking partners based on your specific requirements.
Payment Processing Solutions
Beyond traditional banking, consider payment processors and fintech solutions for receiving payments. Services like PayPal, Stripe, and regional payment gateways can complement your banking, providing multiple channels for customer transactions.
Why Choose Incorpyfy for IFZA Company Setup
Selecting the right business setup consultant makes your IFZA formation smooth and successful.
IFZA Specialisation
Incorpyfy has established hundreds of companies in the IFZA Free Zone across virtually every business activity the authority permits. This specialisation means we know exactly what works, what documentation IFZA expects, and how to position your application for fast approval.
We maintain current knowledge of IFZA regulations, fee structures, and process updates. When rules change, we adapt immediately, ensuring your setup proceeds without compliance issues.
Transparent Pricing and Clear Timelines
Every Incorpyfy package includes itemised pricing showing exactly what you’re paying for. Government fees, service charges, and documentation costs are all clearly separated. No hidden fees, no surprise charges midway through your setup.
We provide realistic timelines for each stage of company formation in IFZA. You’ll know when to expect approvals, when documents need submission, and when your company will be operational.
End-to-End Support
From initial consultation through license collection, visa processing, and bank account opening, Incorpyfy handles every aspect of your IFZA business setup. You get a dedicated consultant who manages your case, coordinates with authorities, and keeps you updated throughout.
This comprehensive approach means you’re not juggling multiple service providers or navigating government processes yourself. We handle the bureaucracy while you focus on preparing to launch operations.
Long-Term Partnership
Our relationship continues long after your initial setup. Incorpyfy provides ongoing support for license renewals, additional visa processing, compliance requirements, and business expansion. Many clients have relied on us for years, viewing us as their trusted Dubai business partner rather than just a formation service.
We offer accounting services, PRO support for government transactions, and advisory services as your business grows and evolves. This continuity provides peace of mind and consistent quality in handling your UAE business affairs.
Getting Started with Your IFZA Company Formation
If IFZA Free Zone sounds right for your business, the next step is straightforward. Contact Incorpyfy to discuss your specific requirements, business activities, and goals for your Dubai operation.
Dubai’s business environment offers tremendous opportunities, and IFZA Free Zone provides an accessible, cost-effective entry point. With Incorpyfy managing your company formation, you can focus on what matters most: building a successful business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Start your IFZA company setup journey today. Contact Incorpyfy for a consultation and discover how straightforward Dubai business setup can be with the right partner supporting you.
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