DAFZA Free Zone Cost and Setup 2026

Why DAFZA Still Appeals to Expats in 2026

DAFZA sits directly beside Dubai International Airport, giving businesses fast cargo access and 15-minute drives to most central districts. The free zone allows 100 percent foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and customs duty exemptions on imports for re-export. Many expats choose it for trading, logistics, and light manufacturing because the airport location reduces transit times and storage costs.

2026 License and Setup Costs

Basic trade licenses start at AED 15,000 per year for single-activity companies. Adding extra activities costs AED 2,000 each. The first-year package usually includes the license, one visa quota, and shared-desk flexi-desk for AED 18,000 total. Dedicated office spaces begin at AED 45,000 annually for 20 square meters. Shareholders pay AED 3,000 for an entry permit, then AED 4,850 for Emirates ID and medical fitness. All fees are published on the DAFZA portal and paid online.

Step-by-Step Setup Process

First, reserve your company name through the DAFZA portal and receive approval within two working days. Next, submit passport copies, business plan, and proof of address for shareholders. Once documents clear, sign the lease agreement and pay the license fee. The authority then issues the trade license, sponsor letter for visas, and customs code. The full process averages 7 to 10 working days when paperwork is complete.

Visa and Residency Rules

DAFZA issues work and residency visas valid for two or three years. Each visa costs AED 4,850 including medical, Emirates ID, and stamping. Dependents can be sponsored once the main visa holder receives the residency stamp. Minimum salary rules do not apply inside the free zone, but health insurance remains mandatory and costs roughly AED 1,800 per adult per year through approved providers.

Bank Account and Operations

After receiving the license, open a corporate account with one of the banks partnered with DAFZA. Most require the original license, passport copies, and a brief business profile. Processing takes three to five days. Once the account is active, you can sign supplier contracts, receive payments, and apply for a customs code to import samples duty-free.

Renewal and Compliance

Licenses renew annually with a 30-day grace period. Submit audited accounts only if turnover exceeds AED 5 million. Late renewal attracts a AED 500 fine per month. Keep your registered address and activity list updated; any change requires a license amendment fee of AED 1,500.

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