• 23 Sep 2025
• Business Setup

What Is IFZA Free Zone

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) is a free zone company formation authority in Dubai. IFZA companies receive a Dubai Free Zone business license co-branded with Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone, and are regulated by the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority. This ensures that companies under IFZA benefit both from IFZA’s free zone advantages and from the credibility and regulatory oversight associated with reputable free zone authorities.

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Types of Licenses and Business Activities

When proceeding with business set up in Dubai under IFZA, you first define your business activity or activities. Common categories include:

• Services
• Consultancy
• Trading
• Holding
• General Trading
• Industrial Activities

Because IFZA allows multiple activities under one license (up to six), it’s ideal for entrepreneurs who plan a diversified business model without repeatedly amending licenses.

Key Legal and Operational Benefits of IFZA

For anyone planning new business setup in Dubai, choosing IFZA offers multiple advantages:

• 0% Income Tax for qualifying companies, giving you financial clarity and better returns.
• 100% Ownership — No need for a local Emirati partner or sponsor.
• 100% Repatriation of profits and capital.
• Remote Registration — Physical presence of shareholders is not required during the application for IFZA licensing.
• No requirement for a guarantee deposit for an employment visa, making visa processes more accessible.
• Flexibility of office requirements — Physical office space is not compulsory in many cases under IFZA.
• Liability is limited, giving corporate protection.
• Ability to do business both with free zone and mainland companies, expanding market reach.

Timeframe & Cost Considerations

With IFZA, the timeframe for business setup in Dubai is among the fastest. Once all documents are submitted, a full company license under IFZA can be processed in about 7 to 14 working days.

Costs are transparent and competitive. Bizvise consultants provide estimates up front, without hidden fees. Because IFZA is positioned as one of the more affordable free zones, entrepreneurs can benefit from lower license fees, minimal licensing overheads, and leaner operating costs.

Visa & Bank Account Processes

After securing your license under IFZA, you can proceed with visa processes:

• Medical test (through approved centers)
• Biometric capture for residence / Emirates ID

As for corporate bank accounts:

• Available at both local and international banks.
• Bank account currencies may vary: AED, USD, EUR, GBP, etc.
• Documentation required often includes legal company documents (MOA, shareholders’ IDs), business plan, company profile, proof of address of at least one shareholder, etc.
• The physical presence of signatories is typically required in the bank for verification.

Requirements You Must Prepare

For a smooth process of business set up in Dubai under IFZA, prepare the following in advance:

• Memorandum and Articles of Association, share / partner agreements
• Passport copies, visa or residence proof for shareholders or signatories
• Proof of address for the company, plus for shareholders (at least one shareholder resident in UAE)
• Personal bank statements (recent months)
• Company profile or project documentation; list of suppliers and clients if available
• Regulatory or tax compliance declarations (e.g., FATCA, CRS)

Common Misconceptions Clarified

• Local Sponsor Not Required: Under IFZA, as a free zone, you do not need a UAE national sponsor.
• Physical Office Not Always Required: Many IFZA packages allow flexi-desk or virtual offices.
• Banking Can Be Managed Remotely: While bank signatory physical presence is required, much of the documentation and relationship building can be handled with guidance, reducing delays.

Is IFZA the Best Choice for Your Company?

IFZA tends to be a smart option when:

• You want 100% ownership and full foreign investor control.
• You plan business in multiple activities without frequent license amendments.
• You are cost-conscious and need affordable free zone licensing.
• You want reasonable speed in licensing (within two weeks).
• You prefer minimal bureaucracy, without local sponsor requirements.

However, if your core business requires working directly with government tenders, or your industry demands specialized permissions that IFZA may not cover, you should compare with Mainland licenses or other free zones with specific regulatory frameworks.

Conclusion

IFZA Free Zone stands out as one of the most efficient pathways for business setup in Dubai. It offers a compelling blend of ownership freedom, tax advantages, low overhead costs, and simplified procedures. For new investors seeking their first Dubai business setup or looking to expand internationally, IFZA offers a roadmap that is affordable, fast, and friendly.

If you're ready to initiate your Dubai business setup under IFZA, working with professional consultants can help you navigate all legal, banking, and licensing steps. Bizvise has extensive experience assisting clients through IFZA company setup, and can help ensure your business is established with clarity, compliance, and competitive cost structure.