Set Up a Company in Dubai Airport Free Zone
Premium free zone adjacent to Dubai International Airport. Dual licence option available. Fast cargo access.
Dubai Airport Free Zone
DAFZA Authority
- Dubai International Airport, Dubai
- Regulated by DAFZA Authority
- Established 1996
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose DAFZA?
DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone) is a premium free zone located adjacent to Dubai International Airport. Rated among the world's top economic zones, DAFZA offers fast cargo access and is ideal for businesses requiring frequent air freight operations. The zone offers a dual-licence option allowing companies to operate in both DAFZA and mainland Dubai.
Airport Connectivity
Direct access to Dubai International Airport for fast cargo handling.
Dual Licence Option
Unique dual-licence allows operations in both DAFZA and mainland Dubai.
Top-Rated Zone
Consistently ranked among the world's best economic zones.
E-commerce Ready
Specialised e-commerce licence packages available.
Fast Processing
Efficient registration process with responsive support.
Diverse Facilities
Range from flexi-desks to warehousing options.
Important: What DAFZA companies cannot do
- Higher cost than budget free zones
- Location may not suit all business types
- Less prestigious for non-aviation businesses compared to DMCC
DAFZA Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 45,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 29,250. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in DAFZA
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from DAFZA's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
DAFZA reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 3 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 3-10 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through DAFZA
Visa Quota
With a DAFZA licence you can sponsor up to 100 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 2 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through DAFZA costs approximately AED 4,500 – 6,500 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.