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Set Up
Your Business
in DIFC
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is not a typical free zone, it is a leading global financial hub with its own independent legal system and regulator, operating under English common law. Established in 2004, DIFC is home to over 5,000 active companies, including banks, investment firms, law firms, and fintech startups.
Located in the heart of Dubai's financial district, DIFC attracts global financial institutions and professional service providers. It is ideal for firms in banking, asset management, insurance, fintech, legal, and corporate services.
Advantages of Setting Up in DIFC
Independent legal system based on English common law
DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority) as the regulator for financial services
DIFC Courts - an independent judicial system recognised internationally
Global reputation as one of the top financial centres in the world
100% foreign ownership with full capital repatriation
Wide range of financial and professional activities
- Business ecosystem with access to banks, investors, and service providers in one hub
Business Structures in DIFC
- Company Limited by Shares (LTD)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Special Purpose Companies (SPC)
- General Partnership / Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
- Foundation or Trust Structures – for wealth management and succession planning
Licences in DIFC
Financial Services Licence
For banking, asset management, insurance, brokerage, and fintech firms (regulated by DFSA)
Retail/Professional Services Licence
For offices providing professional services inside DIFC
Non-Financial Licence
For law firms, consulting, corporate service providers, family offices, and innovation firms
Business Activities in DIFC
Financial Services (regulated by DFSA)
- Banking and wealth management
- Fund management and asset advisory
- Insurance and reinsurance
- Brokerage and investment advisory
- Fintech and digital finance solutions
Professional Services
- Law firms and arbitration centres
- Accounting and audit firms
- Corporate service providers
- Family offices and private wealth advisory
Innovation & Startups
- Fintech incubators
- RegTech, InsurTech, and digital-first ventures
What You Get
- 🗸 Fast response within 1 business day
- 🗸 Free discovery call with our expert
🔒 Your Privacy Matters
We will never share your details with any third-party
This forms collects your name, contact number, and email address so that we can contact you and provide a quote for our services. Please check our Privacy policy to see how we protect and manage your submitted data.
Why Consultycs?
DIFC is highly prestigious but also highly regulated. Consultycs ensures:
- Guidance through DFSA regulatory approvals
- Structuring of entities for finance, fintech, or family office needs
- Full support from incorporation to visas and renewals
- Compliance-ready documentation for banking and cross-border operations
Steps to Set Up in DIFC
Identify Activities & Licence
Financial or non-financial.
Apply for Initial Approval
Submit shareholder and business plan details.
DFSA Authorisation
(for financial entities)
Regulatory review of proposed activities.
Incorporation Application
File incorporation documents with DIFC Registrar of Companies.
Lease Office in DIFC
Mandatory to have a presence in the centre.
Final Approval
& Licence Issuance
Receive DIFC licence.
Visa & Residency
Apply for visas for investors and employees.
Banking Integration
Easy access to global and regional banks in DIFC.
Frequently Asked Any Questions
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What makes DIFC different from other free zones?It has its own independent legal system and regulator (DFSA), operating under English common law.
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Can I set up a fintech startup in DIFC?Yes, DIFC is one of the top fintech hubs in the region, with incubators and regulatory sandboxes.
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Is DIFC only for financial institutions?No. It also supports law firms, consulting companies, family offices, and innovation-focused firms.
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Does DIFC allow 100% foreign ownership?Yes, DIFC allows full foreign ownership and capital repatriation.
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How many companies operate in DIFC?Over 5,000 companies, including major banks, insurers, asset managers, and service providers.