If you’re looking to launch a financial or professional services business in the Middle East, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) should be at the top of your list.
More than just a free zone, DIFC is a world-class international financial hub with its own independent regulatory authority and legal system.
What is DIFC?
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), established in 2004 by the Dubai government, is a special economic zone designed to attract international finance and professional service firms.
Operating under English Common Law, DIFC boasts an independent judicial system and regulatory body, making it one of the most secure and transparent business environments in the region.
📍 Location: Central Dubai (near Sheikh Zayed Road)
🏢 Size: Over 110 acres of designated financial zone
Key Institutions within DIFC
- DIFC Authority
– Oversees company registration, zone administration, and policy development - DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority)
– Regulates financial firms and capital markets (similar to the UK FCA) - DIFC Courts
– Independent judiciary based on English Common Law
– Trusted for arbitration and dispute resolution
Business Activities Permitted in DIFC
Category | Examples |
Financial | Asset management, private equity, insurance, REITs, fintech |
Non-financial | Legal, accounting, consulting, marketing services |
Family Office | Wealth succession, trusts, investment management |
Startups & Fintech | Supported through DIFC Innovation Hub |
Company Setup and Licensing Process
- Choose Legal Structure
∙Private Company (Ltd), Branch Office, etc.
∙100% foreign ownership allowed - Apply for Relevant License
∙Financial activities require DFSA approval
∙Non-financial firms register with DIFC Authority - Office Space
∙A physical office within DIFC is mandatory (co-working options available) - Submit Documentation
∙Business plan, shareholder details, proof of capital, etc.
⏱️ Timeline
- Non-financial license: Approx. 2–4 weeks
- With financial license: 3–6 months on average
DIFC Tax Benefits
Category | Benefit |
Corporate Tax | 9% unified UAE tax (effective 2023) |
Dividends & Capital Gains | Generally tax-exempt |
Currency Restrictions | None (USD-based capital markets) |
Double Taxation Treaties | With over 100 countries |
Why Choose DIFC?
Advantage | Description |
📌 Independent Legal Framework | DIFC Courts based on English Common Law |
🌍 Global Financial Hub | Home to HSBC, Citibank, Standard Chartered, and more |
🧾 Transparent Regulation | DFSA maintains international regulatory standards |
🏙️ Prime Office Location | Strong networking with global financial players |
🚀 Fintech Innovation | DIFC Innovation Hub supports startups and scaleups |
Premia TNC’s DIFC Business Support Services
Premia TNC offers full-scale support for your DIFC journey:
✅ DIFC company incorporation
✅ DFSA financial license consulting
✅ Accounting, tax, AML/KYC policy setup
✅ Office space and staffing solutions
✅ Visa and long-term residency planning
Final Thoughts
DIFC is more than just a free zone—it’s a world-renowned financial ecosystem built on legal clarity, regulatory stability, and global credibility.
If you’re targeting the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region or building a global financial platform, DIFC is your premium launchpad.
With Premia TNC, you can go from setup to stability with a seamless one-stop solution.