IFZA Company Setup
Set up your company in IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) — Dubai's most affordable digital-first free zone. 100% foreign ownership, packages from AED 12,500, fast online setup.
Description
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) is Dubai's most affordable and digitally-focused free zone, purpose-built for cost-conscious startups, SMEs, freelancers, and consultancies. Based in Dubai Silicon Oasis area, IFZA offers some of the lowest free zone setup costs in Dubai while still providing 100% foreign ownership, fully remote digital setup, and visa packages from 0 to multiple visas.
IFZA supports a wide range of business activities — consulting, IT services, e-commerce, trading, freelance, and creative services. The license categories cover Commercial, Professional, and Industrial activities, with the option to combine multiple related activities under one license. IFZA's fully digital setup process means most clients complete licensing without visiting the UAE — only short visits for visa biometrics and bank account opening are typically required.
Octavon Global Advisory handles complete IFZA setup — package selection, activity matching, trade name reservation, KYC submission, MOA drafting, license issuance, visa processing, and corporate bank account introduction. IFZA's lean operational structure means most setups complete in 5 to 7 working days from KYC submission.
What's Included
- IFZA Trade License (Commercial / Professional / Industrial)
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- One of Dubai Most Affordable Free Zone Options
- Fully Remote Digital Setup
- Up to 7 Related Activities Under Single License
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Share Certificate
- Flexi-Desk or Smart Office Options
- Bank Introduction Letter
- Establishment Card and Immigration Card
- Visa Packages from 0 to Multiple
- Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID (if visa)
- Corporate Bank Account Introduction
- Free UAE Corporate Tax Consultation
Requirements / Prerequisites
- Minimum 1 shareholder (individual or corporate)
- Trade name following IFZA naming rules
- Activity from IFZA-approved list
- Flexi-desk minimum, or upgrade to smart office for more visa capacity
- NOC from current sponsor if applicant is on UAE residence visa
- Annual license renewal at same fee tier
Required Documents
- Passport Copy (6+ months validity)
- UAE Visa Copy and Emirates ID (if UAE resident)
- Passport-sized Photograph (if visa)
- Proof of Address (utility bill, last 3 months)
- Contact Details (mobile, email)
- CV or Business Profile
- List of Proposed Business Activities
- NOC from Current Sponsor (if applicable)
- For corporate shareholder: parent company documents
Our Process
- Free consultation on IFZA package and activity
- Reserve 3 trade name choices
- Select activities and license category
- Submit KYC documents and application online
- IFZA review (2-3 working days)
- Pay license and visa package fees
- Sign MOA and corporate documents electronically
- Receive IFZA Trade License
- Establishment card and visa processing (if applicable)
- Open corporate bank account
Pricing
- Basic Fee: AED 12,500
- Service Fee: AED 3,000
- VAT (5%): AED 775
- Total: AED 16,275
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is IFZA so affordable compared to other Dubai free zones?
IFZA operates a lean, fully digital business model with no premium location costs. The savings are passed to clients through some of the lowest setup costs in Dubai. It is specifically positioned for cost-conscious startups, freelancers, and SMEs.
How much does IFZA setup cost?
IFZA base trade license starts at approximately AED 12,500 in government fees, plus AED 3,000-5,000 for service fees. Flexi-desk is typically included in the base package. Visa packages add AED 4,500-6,000 per visa.
Can I set up at IFZA without visiting the UAE?
Yes, the licensing stage is fully remote. Documents are signed electronically and the trade license is delivered digitally. A short UAE visit is required only if you apply for a residence visa (for medical fitness and Emirates ID biometrics) or corporate bank account opening.
How long does IFZA setup take?
Standard IFZA setup typically completes in 5 to 7 working days from KYC submission. The fully digital process means there is no waiting for physical document review.
What activities are available at IFZA?
IFZA supports Commercial (trading), Professional (consulting, services), and Industrial categories. Popular activities: management consulting, IT services, e-commerce, marketing, design, trading, freelance creative services, and business consultancy. You can combine up to 7 related activities under one license.
Can I get UAE residence visas with IFZA?
Yes. IFZA offers packages with 0, 1, 2, 3, or more visas. Investor visas are valid for 2 years and renewable. Visa quota depends on the package and office tier you select.
Why choose IFZA over DMCC or Meydan?
IFZA is best for cost-conscious entrepreneurs who do not need the premium positioning of DMCC or the central location of Meydan. It offers the same 100% ownership and tax benefits at a lower price point. Trade-off: less brand prestige and slightly less banking convenience than DMCC.