Dubai International Financial Centre

Dubai · DIFC Authority · Est. 2004

DIFC is Dubai's primary financial district operating under an independent English common law legal framework with its own courts and the DFSA regulator. Hosting over 8,800 active entities, packages start at AED 16,515 for an Innovation License (Year 1), with standard setup costs scaling upward based on office requirements. DIFC supports up to 4 initial visas on entry packages, offers moderate-to-streamlined banking options via integrated KYC networks, and serves as the regional benchmark for banking, asset management, fintech, and legal services.

From

AED 16,515

Year 1

Zero Visa Package

AED 16,515

Innovation License · Flexi Desk · 0 visas

Renews at AED 16,515

1 Visa Package

AED 25,055

Innovation License · Flexi Desk · 1 visa

Renews at AED 19,585

2 Visa Package

AED 31,225

Innovation License · Flexi Desk · 2 visas

Renews at AED 20,285

4 Visa Package

AED 43,565

Innovation License · Flexi Desk · 4 visas

Renews at AED 21,685

Estimated

Advisory Estimate

AED 34,500

— · 0 visas

Renews at AED 14,000

Estimated

Forensic analysis

Speak to a setup consultant

How much does it cost to set up in DIFC?

The cheapest published package for Dubai International Financial Centre is Zero Visa Package at AED 16,515 for Year 1, renewing at AED 16,515. Costs scale with visa count, office type, and licensed activities.

How long does DIFC setup take?

Typical processing time is 3–7 business days, though bank account opening usually adds further time.

Is banking easy to set up with a DIFC licence?

Banking difficulty for DIFC is rated "Moderate". Known banking partners include Mashreq Bank, Emirates NBD, Commercial Bank of Dubai.

DIFC might be right — or your business might need something else entirely

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