DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone)
Premium free zone beside DXB, built for high-value trade and re-export.
Overview
DAFZA sits next to Dubai International Airport, purpose-built for logistics-sensitive, high-value and re-export businesses that benefit from direct airfreight access and customs efficiency. It attracts multinationals in aviation, electronics, pharmaceuticals, jewellery and IT — a higher-cost, prestige zone focused on connectivity and corporate reputation.
Key benefits
- 100% foreign ownership and full repatriation
- 0% personal and corporate tax on qualifying income
- Direct proximity to Dubai International Airport — fast air cargo & customs
- Reduced logistics lead times for import-export and re-export
- Strong reputation with multinationals and regional HQs
- Dual License option to also operate on the Dubai mainland
Business activities & licenses
DAFZA supports a range of license types and activities, including:
- Trade (import / export / distribution)
- Service (IT, consultancy)
- Light industrial (packaging, assembly)
- E-commerce
- General trading (up to ~10 activities)
Ownership & visas
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required.
An office / smart-desk is generally required to issue the licence, which underpins visa eligibility; quota scales with leased space.
Cost & timeline
Trade license from ~AED 15,000; smart-desk packages from ~AED 19,770. Full range roughly AED 19,770–84,630 by license and office size.
~2–4 weeks.
Prices are indicative starting points, not quotes. Government and free-zone fees change frequently — we confirm current, all-in figures before you commit.
Is DAFZA right for you?
Import-export, re-export, logistics, aviation, electronics, pharma and jewellery businesses that need airport proximity, customs efficiency and a prestige corporate address.
What makes DAFZA different
- Located directly beside one of the world's busiest airports.
- Dual License lets DAFZA companies also operate in the Dubai mainland.
Compare alternatives
How DAFZA compares
| Free zone | Emirate | License from* | Typical timeline | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAFZA This page | Dubai | AED 15,000/yr | ~2–4 weeks | Import/export · Logistics |
| IFZA → | Dubai | AED 12,900/yr | License in ~3–5 working days (fast-track available) | Consultants · E-commerce |
| Meydan → | Dubai | AED 12,500/yr | A few days to ~1 week (digital process) | Agencies · Consultants |
| DMCC → | Dubai | AED 20,000/yr | ~1–4 weeks depending on activity and workspace | Commodities · General trading |
* Indicative license-only starting points for budgeting — not quotes. Compare all 17 zones
DAFZA — frequently asked questions
01How much does it cost to set up in DAFZA?＋
Trade license from ~AED 15,000; smart-desk packages from ~AED 19,770. Full range roughly AED 19,770–84,630 by license and office size. These are indicative figures for budgeting — Incorporate Dubai will confirm current, all-in pricing for your activity and visa needs.
02Can I own 100% of my DAFZA company?＋
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required.
03How many visas can I get with DAFZA?＋
An office / smart-desk is generally required to issue the licence, which underpins visa eligibility; quota scales with leased space.
04How long does DAFZA setup take?＋
~2–4 weeks. Timelines depend on document readiness, visa processing and bank onboarding.
05Who is DAFZA best for?＋
Import-export, re-export, logistics, aviation, electronics, pharma and jewellery businesses that need airport proximity, customs efficiency and a prestige corporate address.