Overview
Set up your company in the DIFC, a common-law financial free zone in Dubai. Designed for regulated and non-regulated business activities. Structured for compliance, credibility, and global operations.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a common-law financial free zone in Dubai, regulated independently by the DFSA and served by its own courts. As a dedicated onshore financial free zone, DIFC offers world-class infrastructure, a common law legal framework, and a corporate tax regime in which qualifying income of a Qualifying Free Zone Person can attract a 0% rate. Atlas guides you through every step of establishing your business presence in this prestigious jurisdiction, from selecting the right entity type to obtaining your DIFC licence and opening corporate bank accounts. The DIFC passed 10,000 active registered companies for the first time in the first half of 2026, with 10,018 at 30 June, so the question is rarely whether the centre works and almost always whether it is the right centre for this business.
Read the full DIFC setup guide: entity types, timelines and the step by step process
First question: will the DFSA need to authorise you?
Most guides open with the DFSA's licence categories 1 to 4. Those only matter if your business is regulated at all, and most enquiries we take are not. Answer these four before anything else.
- Do you hold or control money or assets belonging to someone else?
- Do you advise on, arrange or manage investments for other people?
- Do you deal in insurance, credit or payments in your own name?
- Do you operate a fund, or market one to investors?
If yes to any
Yes to any of these: you are in DFSA territory. That means an authorisation application, approved individuals, regulatory capital and a longer timeline measured in months. Plan the licence before the company.
If no to all four
No to all four: you are almost certainly a non-regulated DIFC entity, registered with the Registrar rather than authorised by the DFSA. That is the faster route, and the one most holding, advisory and technology businesses take.
Why Choose Atlas
Key Features & Benefits
Regulated & Non-Regulated Activities
Whether you operate a regulated financial services firm or a non-regulated business, DIFC offers the right structure for your needs.
Common Law Framework
DIFC operates under its own independent legal system based on English common law, giving international businesses a familiar and trusted legal environment.
100% Foreign Ownership
Enjoy full foreign ownership of your company with no requirement for a local UAE sponsor or partner.
Low to Zero Tax Environment
DIFC entities may benefit from a 0% tax rate on qualifying income and profits under the UAE Corporate Tax regime, subject to eligibility conditions, with no restrictions on capital or profit repatriation.
World-Class Infrastructure
Access premium Grade A office space, a vibrant ecosystem of financial and professional services firms, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Global Credibility
A DIFC address instantly signals credibility to clients, investors, and counterparties around the world.
Our Process
How We Work
Initial Consultation
We assess your business objectives, activities, and structure to recommend the most appropriate DIFC entity type and licence category.
Entity Structuring
We design the optimal corporate structure, including shareholding arrangements, directorship, and governance framework.
Name Registration & Approval
We handle the DIFC Registrar of Companies name reservation and submit all required documentation.
Licence Application
We prepare and submit your DIFC operating licence application, coordinating with the DIFC Authority throughout the approval process.
Office & Visa Setup
We assist with securing your registered office address and obtaining UAE residency visas for key personnel.
Banking & Ongoing Support
We connect you with our banking partners and provide ongoing corporate secretarial and compliance support.
Full Service
What's included
Everything handled, from initial advisory through to ongoing compliance and support.
Ready to establish your DIFC company? Our experts are here to guide you through every step.
Our DIFC specialists are available for a free initial consultation to understand your requirements and recommend the best solution.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up a company in the DIFC?
Most DIFC company formations complete within 2 to 4 weeks once documents are in order, depending on the entity type and whether DFSA authorisation is required.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a DIFC company?
Yes. The DIFC permits 100% foreign ownership of all entity types, with no requirement for a local UAE partner or sponsor.
What taxes apply to a DIFC company?
DIFC entities may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income as a Qualifying Free Zone Person, subject to meeting the relevant conditions. VAT and other obligations may still apply.
What types of entities can I register in the DIFC?
The main forms are a Private Company (LTD), a Public Company (PLC), a Limited Liability Partnership, a Recognised Company (the branch of a foreign company) and special purpose vehicles such as Prescribed Companies. The DIFC abolished the LLC and the company limited by shares as separate forms in 2018, so guidance still offering a DIFC LLC is out of date. Atlas advises on the best fit.
Do I need a physical office in the DIFC?
Yes, a DIFC entity needs a registered address in the centre. Options range from flexi-desks to full Grade A offices, and Atlas can arrange a compliant registered office.
What is the difference between a regulated and non-regulated DIFC company?
Regulated firms carry out financial services and need DFSA authorisation; non-regulated firms such as holding, advisory or tech companies only need a DIFC commercial licence.
Can Atlas open a corporate bank account for my DIFC company?
Atlas introduces you to its UAE and international banking partners and supports you through the KYC and account-opening process.
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