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DAFZA Company Formation

Set Up Your Company at the Gateway to Dubai International Airport

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) puts your business steps from Dubai International Airport, with VAT-exempt status and access to 2.5 billion consumers across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. AURION is your registered DAFZA agent for end-to-end setup.

Start Your DAFZA CompanyWhatsApp an Expert

VAT-Exempt Free Zone · Ranked 2nd Globally by FT FDI Magazine · License in ~7 Days

AED 41,790Starting setup cost (Smart Desk Package)
~7 DaysTime to obtain your license
2.5B+Consumers reachable from DAFZA’s location
Why Choose DAFZA

A Free Zone Built for Businesses That Move Fast

Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA) is licensed to issue trade licenses for operations inside the free zone, in the UAE mainland (subject to customs regulations), and internationally — across hundreds of business activities including consultancy, trading, manufacturing, IT services, aviation services, and electronics trading.

Strategic location adjacent to Dubai International Airport, with access to 2.5 billion consumers across Europe, Asia and the Middle East

VAT-exempt free zone status

Ranked 2nd in the world and 1st in the Middle East by Financial Times FDI Magazine’s global Free Zone ranking

Internationally certified: ISO 9001, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, ISO 27001, ISO 10002, ISO 20000-1

24-hour customer service and a dedicated logistics center for rapid cargo clearance

Hundreds of licensable business activities across trading, services, and industrial sectors

VAT & Corporate Tax — What You Need to Know

DAFZA Is a VAT-Exempt Free Zone — Here's What That Means for You

DAFZA is one of the UAE's officially Designated Zones for VAT purposes. Here's exactly how that benefits your company.

What does "VAT-exempt free zone" mean for a DAFZA company?

Transactions between businesses within DAFZA, or between DAFZA and other VAT-exempt (Designated Zone) free zones, fall outside the scope of VAT. Any goods or services moving from DAFZA into the UAE mainland or to non-designated free zones are subject to standard VAT.

Does a DAFZA company need to pay UAE Corporate Tax?

Free zone companies incorporated in Designated Zones with adequate substance, that conduct international trade — buying from manufacturers and selling to re-sellers — generally fall outside the scope of Corporate Tax. AURION's consultants will review your specific business activity to confirm how Corporate Tax applies to you.

Every business activity is reviewed individually — our expert consultants will advise you on VAT exemptions and full regulatory compliance before you register.

Speak to a Tax Consultant →
Structures & Licensing

Choose the Company Structure That Fits Your Ownership Plans

DAFZA supports multiple ownership structures, so whether you're starting fresh, expanding an existing company, or relocating a subsidiary, there's a structure that fits.

Free Zone Company (FZCO)

From 2 up to 50 shareholders, individuals or companies or both. Capital requirements depend on the business activity.

Branch of an Existing Foreign Company

Operate your existing company's branch in DAFZA with no special share capital requirements.

Subsidiary Company

A foreign company can own 100% of the shares of a DAFZA subsidiary.

One License, Multiple Activity Types

DAFZA now allows businesses to combine activities from Trading, Service, and Industrial categories under a single license. The primary license type is determined by the combination chosen:

Activity CombinationPrimary License Type
Trade + ServiceTrade
Industrial + ServiceIndustrial
Trade + IndustrialTrade
Service + Trade + IndustrialTrade

Not sure which combination fits your business plan? Talk to our consultants about the new License Structure and the fees for adding activities.

How It Works

From Application to Trade License in a Few Simple Steps

  1. Choose Your License & Activity

    AURION's consultants help you select the right business license and activities based on your business plan and experience.

  2. Prepare & Submit Application

    We prepare the application with shareholder details and identification documents and submit it to DAFZA on your behalf.

  3. Office Lease & License Issuance

    Once your office tenancy contract, shareholding details, and license fees are finalized, DAFZA issues your trade license — typically within ~7 days.

  4. Visa & Bank Account

    Apply for your UAE Residence Visa and open a corporate bank account, with AURION's assistance, to start operating.

Timeline for company incorporation in DAFZA is approximately 3–4 working days once all requirements are met.

Transparent Pricing

Smart Office Packages, Built Around Your Space Needs

All packages include office rent (with service charge), registration, license, establishment card, postal, and Knowledge & Innovation fees.

Smart Desk6.65 sqm
Total Setup CostAED 41,790
  • Rent (incl. service charge)AED 16,625
  • Registration FeeAED 7,000
  • License FeeAED 15,020
  • Establishment CardAED 2,020
  • Postal FeeAED 1,065
  • Knowledge & Innovation FeeAED 60
Boutique Office10 sqm
Total Setup CostAED 52,165
  • Rent (incl. service charge)AED 25,000
  • Registration FeeAED 7,000
  • License FeeAED 15,020
  • Establishment CardAED 2,020
  • Postal FeeAED 1,065
  • Knowledge & Innovation FeeAED 60
Premium27 sqm
Total Setup CostAED 92,665†
  • Rent (incl. service charge)AED 67,500†
  • Registration FeeAED 7,000
  • License FeeAED 15,020
  • Establishment CardAED 2,020
  • Postal FeeAED 1,065
  • Knowledge & Innovation FeeAED 60
Premium Plus55 sqm
Total Setup CostAED 155,665†
  • Rent (incl. service charge)AED 137,500†
  • Registration FeeNil
  • License FeeAED 15,020
  • Establishment CardAED 2,020
  • Postal FeeAED 1,065
  • Knowledge & Innovation FeeAED 60

Want a custom estimate based on your exact requirements?

Calculate My Cost

Free to use · No registration required

Premium OptionFor High-Volume Traders

General Trading License — One License, Unlimited Product Categories

For businesses planning to trade across multiple product categories under a single license, DAFZA's General Trading License Package includes a 50 sqm premium office with furniture and telephone equipment, plus a 5–6 visa quota (visa cost separate).

Office Area (50 sqm, 1-year lease @ AED 2,500/sqm)AED 125,000
General Trading License Fee (annual)AED 50,000
Registration Fee (one-time)AED 20,000
Establishment Card FeeAED 2,020
Knowledge & Innovation FeesAED 60
P.O. Box (annual, if no existing box)AED 1,065
Memorandum of Association FeeFree for new companies
Parking Fee (optional)AED 1,097
Total Package CostAED 199,242

Requires a minimum 50 sqm office and a deposited Share Capital of AED 500,000.

  • 3 proposed company names + brief business activity description
  • Clear, colored passport copies of all shareholders
  • 6 months' personal bank statements per shareholder
  • CV/profile of shareholders or authorized manager
Enquire About General Trading License
Visas, Warehouses & Industrial Space

Plan Your Visa Quota and Warehouse Footprint Upfront

Employment Visa Cost:AED 5,407

— includes inside-country visa application, residency stamp, medical test, visa status change, Emirates ID, and urgent visa stamping.

Light Industrial Units (LIU) — Inside DAFZA

Standard unit353 sqm (incl. ~80–90 sqm office space)
RateAED 1,100 per sqm + 10% service charge
Visa entitlement20 employment visas

DAFZA Industrial Park

LocationNew warehouse cluster ~5km from DAFZA
Unit sizefrom 335 sqm and above
RateAED 800 per sqm
Visa entitlement20–30 employment visas
Documentation

What You'll Need to Get Started

Individual Shareholder(s):

  • Application Form (provided by AURION)
  • Passport copy of shareholders/manager + residence visa page (optional)
  • Passport copies of directors and secretary
  • No Objection Letter from sponsor (UAE-based individuals only)
  • CV

Non-Individual Shareholder(s) (corporate entities):

  • Application Form (provided by AURION)
  • Passport copies of shareholders/manager, directors and secretary + residence visa page (optional)
  • Company profile/brochure or CV
  • Audited Financial Report
  • Notarized & attested Certificate of Incorporation, MOA & POA
  • Shareholders' Resolution for establishing the FZCO in DAFZA (provided by AURION)
Your Single-Window Partner

AURION Handles Every Step — So You Don't Have To

As a registered agent of Dubai Airport Free Zone, AURION acts as your single-window clearance partner for the entire setup process.

Our PRO team also handles license renewals, audit report arrangement, residence and family visa assistance, tax residency certificates, VAT filing, attestations, driving license assistance, and bank account opening — all through direct contacts within DAFZA departments.

Preparation & submission of application
Preparation & review of Memorandum of Association
Preparation & review of lease agreement
Legal attestation of documents
Obtaining the original trade license
Obtaining the original lease agreement
Liaison with Legal, Lease & Licensing departments
Company bank account opening assistance, certificate of formation, and office keys
Already Have a DAFZA Company?

Renewal and Company Closure, Handled End-to-End

Path 1 — License Renewal

Renewal requirements include your trade license copy and renewal fee, a Good Standing Certificate from the parent company's registrar (notarized and attested, for FZE/FZCO non-individual and branch entities), original audited financial reports (or an undertaking letter if delayed), and proof of required insurance (workmen's compensation, fire & allied perils, third-party liability minimum AED 2,000,000).

Get Help With Renewal →

Path 2 — Company Closing / Liquidation

Closing a DAFZA company requires a notification to authorities at least 3 months in advance, a board resolution for closure, NOCs from Etisalat and Customs, authorized bank account closure, newspaper publication in English & Arabic, audited balance sheet closure, and visa cancellations.

  • DAFZA Liquidation FeeAED 6,520
  • Attested Board Resolution for LiquidationAED 1,520
  • Newspaper Publication (English & Arabic)AED 2,100
  • Port & Customs NOCAED 250
Total (approx.)AED 9,790
Get Help With Company Closing →
Client Reviews

Trusted by Investors Setting Up at DAFZA

Annil Gehaani
Annil Gehaani
We had an outstanding experience with Aurion Business Setup Consultants, and special appreciation to Mr. Santhosh for the exceptional way he handled our company closure in SAIF Zone. From start to finish, the entire process was managed with remarkable efficiency, clarity, and professionalism. What truly stood out was the complete lack of hassle on our end. Santhosh took ownership of every detail, kept us consistently informed at each stage, and ensured the process moved smoothly without any delays or complications. The closure was completed in a much shorter time than anticipated, which speaks volumes about his expertise and commitment. His responsiveness, transparency, and hands-on approach made what is usually a complex process feel effortless. We highly recommend Aurion and Santhosh to anyone seeking dependable, efficient, and top-quality corporate services.
Nazia Hussain
Nazia Hussain
Excellent Service & Outstanding Support from Ashley at Aurion Consultants. I've had a great experience working with Aurion Consultants, and I'd especially like to appreciate Ashley, who is an absolute star. She is an amazing administrator — always on top of things, extremely organized, and very responsive. Ashley follows up proactively, keeps everything moving smoothly, and makes the entire process feel stress-free. It's rare to find someone so efficient, detail-oriented, and genuinely helpful. Overall, Aurion Consultants provides professional and reliable service, and having someone like Ashley on their team truly makes a big difference. Highly recommended!
MrandMrs Sinclair
MrandMrs Sinclair
I highly recommend Nancy from AURION Business Setup Consultants for consultation and visa processing services. From start to finish, she was knowledgeable, efficient, and very supportive. She took the time to explain all requirements, answered all our questions promptly, and ensured everything was processed smoothly. She guided me through every step with patience and clarity, making the whole process stress-free. Her dedication and attention to detail gave us great peace of mind. Her support and professionalism truly made a difference. I highly recommend her services.
Robert Ibel
Robert Ibel
I had an amazing experience with Ms. Norien. She went above and beyond to help me, supporting me to the fullest extent possible. I truly couldn't thank her enough for her effort and professionalism. She is such an incredible person, and it reflects how outstanding this company is as a whole. I've never had any problems with them—whenever I need help with business consultancy, advice, driver's license, Emirates ID, or residency, I always go to this company. They make everything smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended
Annil Gehaani
Annil Gehaani
We had an outstanding experience with Aurion Business Setup Consultants, and special appreciation to Mr. Santhosh for the exceptional way he handled our company closure in SAIF Zone. From start to finish, the entire process was managed with remarkable efficiency, clarity, and professionalism. What truly stood out was the complete lack of hassle on our end. Santhosh took ownership of every detail, kept us consistently informed at each stage, and ensured the process moved smoothly without any delays or complications. The closure was completed in a much shorter time than anticipated, which speaks volumes about his expertise and commitment. His responsiveness, transparency, and hands-on approach made what is usually a complex process feel effortless. We highly recommend Aurion and Santhosh to anyone seeking dependable, efficient, and top-quality corporate services.
Nazia Hussain
Nazia Hussain
Excellent Service & Outstanding Support from Ashley at Aurion Consultants. I've had a great experience working with Aurion Consultants, and I'd especially like to appreciate Ashley, who is an absolute star. She is an amazing administrator — always on top of things, extremely organized, and very responsive. Ashley follows up proactively, keeps everything moving smoothly, and makes the entire process feel stress-free. It's rare to find someone so efficient, detail-oriented, and genuinely helpful. Overall, Aurion Consultants provides professional and reliable service, and having someone like Ashley on their team truly makes a big difference. Highly recommended!
MrandMrs Sinclair
MrandMrs Sinclair
I highly recommend Nancy from AURION Business Setup Consultants for consultation and visa processing services. From start to finish, she was knowledgeable, efficient, and very supportive. She took the time to explain all requirements, answered all our questions promptly, and ensured everything was processed smoothly. She guided me through every step with patience and clarity, making the whole process stress-free. Her dedication and attention to detail gave us great peace of mind. Her support and professionalism truly made a difference. I highly recommend her services.
Robert Ibel
Robert Ibel
I had an amazing experience with Ms. Norien. She went above and beyond to help me, supporting me to the fullest extent possible. I truly couldn't thank her enough for her effort and professionalism. She is such an incredible person, and it reflects how outstanding this company is as a whole. I've never had any problems with them—whenever I need help with business consultancy, advice, driver's license, Emirates ID, or residency, I always go to this company. They make everything smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended
AhmedWalid HalabiVSD Global
Aurion is one of the best consulting teams in the UAE for all activities of company formation and related matters. We trust them the most.
Chyngyz ShermatovBrimpex FZC
I thank Aurion for their timely advice. It definitely saved me a lot of money & time.
Edwin Marshall BerkinsPEREGRINE Development International Inc.
It's happy to note that Aurion registered the branch of BVI Company in Dubai Airport Freezone perfectly complying with all legal attestations. Thanks to Syam and team.
Humaira SiddiquiSTRYX FZE
I am extremely satisfied with the services provided by AURION. They were very professional and got the work done with expediency.
AhmedWalid HalabiVSD Global
Aurion is one of the best consulting teams in the UAE for all activities of company formation and related matters. We trust them the most.
Chyngyz ShermatovBrimpex FZC
I thank Aurion for their timely advice. It definitely saved me a lot of money & time.
Edwin Marshall BerkinsPEREGRINE Development International Inc.
It's happy to note that Aurion registered the branch of BVI Company in Dubai Airport Freezone perfectly complying with all legal attestations. Thanks to Syam and team.
Humaira SiddiquiSTRYX FZE
I am extremely satisfied with the services provided by AURION. They were very professional and got the work done with expediency.
4.9 ★on Google
Frequently Asked Questions — DAFZA Company Formation

Still have questions about setting up your company in DAFZA?

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Get a free consultation. No commitment. Just clarity.

Tell us about your business plans — our consultants will get back to you with a tailored DAFZA setup solution.

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