DAFZA: company setup
Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority
Updated on 29 October 2026 · Published under the responsibility of Jason Pivron, director · Who we are
Why this zone
Adjacent to Dubai International Airport, designed for high-value, fast-turnover trading. Air logistics are immediate.
What to watch for
Among the most expensive zones in the country. It is only justified if airport proximity genuinely sits in your value chain.
Fee breakdown
All-inclusive package, official fees included: registration, first-year licence, establishment card and the minimum office the zone requires; visas are not included. Then €15,590 a year to renew the licence and the minimum office.
Suited activities
- High-value trading
- Aviation and aerospace
- Electronics
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices
Banking
Very good. The airport address and physical substance carry weight.
Setting up in DAFZA: the steps
- Scoping and choice of zone
- Name reservation and initial approval
- Licence issue
- Visa and identity
- Tax and bank account
Steps from our catalogue for the United Arab Emirates, recorded on 21 September 2026. Details and documents to provide →
DAFZA: what is specific to it
- The zone adjoins Dubai International Airport, which suits it first to air freight and high-value trading. Source: dafz.ae (to be checked)
Where these figures come from
- Emirate (Dubai): dafz.ae
- Office, visas and setup time: our catalogue, recorded on 21 September 2026; to be checked with the zone.
- Banking: our assessment, not an authority's data.
DAFZA free zone: frequently asked questions
How much does a DAFZA licence cost?
From €17,090. All-inclusive package, official fees included: registration, first-year licence, establishment card and the minimum office the zone requires; visas are not included. Then €15,590 a year to renew the licence and the minimum office.
How long does company setup in DAFZA take?
2 to 4 weeks (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
Which emirate is DAFZA in?
Dubai — Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority.
What office does a DAFZA company need?
Office mandatory (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
How many visas with a DAFZA company?
By floor area leased (our catalogue, to be checked with the zone).
Can a DAFZA company open a bank account?
Very good. The airport address and physical substance carry weight. No account can be guaranteed.
Which activities are allowed in DAFZA?
High-value trading · Aviation and aerospace · Electronics · Pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
What should I watch out for in DAFZA?
Among the most expensive zones in the country. It is only justified if airport proximity genuinely sits in your value chain.