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DIFC | Dubai, UAE
Flexible regulatory regime fostering innovation
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) boasts the region's largest innovation community, fostering a thriving ecosystem for companies to flourish and generate new economic value.
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) boasts the region's largest innovation community, fostering a thriving ecosystem for companies to flourish and generate new economic value.
Arnifi Funds established by Arnifi to date.
Strategic Advantages
Legal framework excellence
DIFC adopts a refined version of English Common Law, offering global investors a familiar, stable, and reliable legal foundation to boost confidence and operational stability
Future-ready infrastructure (DIFC 2.0)
A major expansion includes new office spaces, residential zones, retail areas, creative hubs, and entertainment facilities, enhancing its urban appeal
Market leadership
Recognized among the top 10 global financial hubs, DIFC solidifies its reputation as a premier onshore financial center with international prestige and reliability
Comprehensive financial ecosystem
DIFC serves as a hub for regional and global transactions, hosting international firms in investment funds, wealth management, banking, and corporate services
Judicial innovation
DIFC pioneered a regional court system with legislation that adheres to top international standards for legal proceedings and dispute resolution.
Regulatory excellence
The DFSA, a highly regarded independent regulator, ensures risk-based oversight that meets global standards
Streamlined immigration process
The dedicated Government Services Office at DIFC provides comprehensive support, focusing on fast and efficient employment visa processing and renewals
Innovation leadership
The DIFC Innovation Hub hosts 900+ tech companies, venture capital firms, regulators, and education providers, fostering technological and business advancements
DIFC Prescribed Companies
Discover the unique advantages and streamlined setup process of DIFC Prescribed Companies, tailored for innovative business needs
Features & advantages
Administrative framework
- Digital-first registration process
- Three-day approval timeline
- Streamlined documentation procedures
Financial structure
- $100 initial application fee
- $1,000 annual maintenance fee
- Cost-effective operational model
Workforce management
- Zero employee structure
- Focus on owner-operated business
- Lean operational model
Location flexibility
- Multiple address options
- Coworking space compatibility
- Shared office arrangements
- CSP location availability
Legal foundation
- Common Law jurisdiction
- Independent DIFC Courts oversight
- Robust legal framework
Documentation efficiency
- No attestation requirements
- Simplified corporate documentation
- Reduced administrative burden
Tax optimization
- Maximum 9% tax liability
- Clear tax structure
- Competitive tax regime
Capital movement
- Unrestricted capital repatriation
- Flexible fund transfers
- Freedom of financial movement
STEPS AND PROCEDURES
Timeline overview
12-14 business days
Total time required:
7-10 working days for initial approval
Plus 2-4 working days for registration
Process breakdown:
Phase 1: Initial approval – Get the necessary approvals and complete preliminary steps.
Phase 2: Registration – Finalize paperwork and receive your official license.
- Submit KYC documentation
- Provide qualification evidence
- Appoint a corporate service provider (CSP), if required
- Complete the online application
- Submit through the official DIFC Portal
- Undergo initial review
- Obtain In-Principal Approval (IPA)
- Secure office/desk registration
- Process Registry Office Certificate (ROC)
- Complete shareholder documentation
- PConfirm registered address (office, desk, sharing, or CSP)
- Submit final documentation
- Receive official DIFC license
- Complete company establishment
FAQNeed answers? we’ve got you covered
What is a DIFC Prescribed Company?
A DIFC-prescribed company is a passive holding company that can be used for specific purposes like holding assets, structured financing, or intellectual property. It cannot conduct active business operations or have employees but can own shares in other companies and receive investment funds or dividends.
What type of activities can a DIFC Prescribed Company perform?
A Prescribed Company can engage in passive activities like holding property, shares, or intellectual property rights. It can be used for structured financing, aviation or maritime structures, crowdfunding, and other qualifying purposes. However, it cannot conduct active business operations, hire employees, or engage in direct commercial activities
Does a DIFC Prescribed Company need a physical office?
No, a Prescribed Company doesn't need to lease physical office space. It can use the address of a registered agent, share office space with a DIFC affiliate, or opt for co-working space within DIFC
Who can establish a DIFC Prescribed Company?
It can be established by GCC persons, DIFC-registered entities, authorized firms, or anyone holding GCC-registrable assets. Non-GCC persons can also establish one by appointing a DIFC Corporate Service Provider as director and meeting other requirements
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