United Arab Emirates

Company Formation in DAFZA

Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DIEZ)

Formation Time

4–6 business days

Min. Capital

AED 50,000

Corporate Tax

0% qualifying / 9%

Foreign Ownership

100%

Overview

DAFZA (Dubai Airport Freezone), now part of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), is one of the world's most prestigious airport-adjacent commercial free zones. Adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB), DAFZA is the primary Middle East hub for high-value international trade, aviation services, electronics, pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, and precision logistics. Hosting global leaders like Boeing, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Panasonic, and Chanel, DAFZA provides rapid customs clearance directly connected to the airport tarmac, making it the premier destination for air cargo and high-value distribution.

Direct DXB airport airside access

VAT Designated Zone

Part of DIEZ authority

Boeing & Airbus regional hub

Fast customs clearance

Why Choose DAFZA

Direct airside adjacency to Dubai International Airport (DXB) — world's busiest international airport

Rapid customs clearance enabling same-day transshipment across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia

Part of Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) with unified digital governance

0% Corporate Tax on Qualifying Income under UAE Federal Corporate Tax QFZP rules

Home to Fortune 500 leaders in aerospace, luxury, electronics, and pharmaceuticals

VAT Designated Zone status for international goods trading and bonded storage

100% foreign ownership with full capital and profit repatriation

Business Entity Types

Entity	Ownership	Directors	Capital	Tax	Best For
FZCO	100%	1	AED 50,000	0% qualifying / 9% standard	Aviation, electronics, luxury goods, high-value trade, pharmaceuticals
Branch Office	100%	1	None	0% qualifying / 9% standard	International multinationals expanding air cargo logistics and sales operations

Step-by-Step Formation Process

Application & Name Reservation

1–2 days

Submit application via DIEZ online portal.

Security Clearance & Space Selection

2–3 days

Select office or light industrial unit and clear security.

MOA Execution & Payment

1–2 days

Sign digital corporate documents and pay official licensing fees.

License Issuance

1 day

Receive official DAFZA trade license and customs code.

Corporate Banking & Visas

2–3 weeks

Open accounts with Emirates NBD or FAB and process residence visas.

Costs & Fees

Government / License Fee	AED 18,000 – 35,000
Our Service Fee	USD 5,000+
Annual Renewal	AED 18,000 – 30,000

Fees are indicative and may vary based on business activity, entity type, and additional approvals required. Contact us for a precise custom quote.

Get Custom Quote

Banking

DAFZA entities enjoy immediate bankability across UAE financial institutions due to the zone's government prestige and blue-chip tenant base.

Account Opening Time

2–3 weeks

Multi-Currency

Yes — multiple currencies supported

Recommended Banks

Emirates NBDFirst Abu Dhabi BankMashreq BankHSBC UAEWio Bank

Tax Overview

Corporate Tax

0% on Qualifying Income; 9% on non-qualifying income

Personal Income Tax

VAT / Sales Tax

Designated Zone status for goods transfers

Capital Gains Tax

Withholding Tax

Double Tax Treaties

137 countries

DAFZA is a VAT Designated Zone. Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) rules apply for 0% corporate tax on qualifying activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose DAFZA over other Dubai free zones?

DAFZA's primary advantage is its physical adjacency to Dubai International Airport (DXB). For companies dealing in high-value, time-sensitive goods (aviation parts, electronics, luxury fashion, pharmaceuticals), DAFZA provides direct airside customs clearance and rapid global shipping.

Is DAFZA a Designated Zone for VAT?

Yes. DAFZA is recognized as a VAT Designated Zone, allowing companies to import, store, and trade physical goods within the zone without incurring UAE VAT.

Can a DAFZA company open accounts with major banks?

Yes. DAFZA companies have top-tier banking credibility, allowing smooth account opening with Emirates NBD, FAB, HSBC, and Citi.

What is DIEZ?

DIEZ (Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority) is the umbrella authority integrating DAFZA, Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), and Dubai CommerCity, streamlining regulatory processes across all three zones.

What are the office requirements in DAFZA?

DAFZA offers premium serviced executive offices, package business desks, and specialized light industrial units (LIUs) with integrated cold-chain and warehousing facilities.

What is the minimum share capital for DAFZA?

The standard minimum share capital for an FZCO in DAFZA is AED 50,000, which can be allocated among multiple shareholders.