Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is one of Dubai's most established free zones, set up in 1996 directly adjacent to Dubai International Airport's Terminal 1. It hosts over 3,400 companies, including 1,600+ multinationals, across aviation, logistics, technology and trading, and its airport-side location and dual licence with Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism make it a strong fit for time-sensitive, high-value trade.
Airport-Adjacent Operations: Direct access to DXB's cargo terminals with dedicated gates for free-zone tenants, supporting same-day cargo clearance.
DAFZA-DET Dual Licence: Lets companies operate on the UAE mainland without a separate mainland office.
100% Foreign Ownership: Full ownership and capital repatriation, with no local partner required.
Broad Licence Range: Trading, general trading, service and industrial licences cover aviation, logistics, technology, pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.
0% Corporate Tax on Qualifying Income: DAFZA entities that meet Qualifying Free Zone Person criteria pay 0% on qualifying income, with the standard 9% applying above that.
Ampsy Consultancy manages the full DAFZA company formation process, from trade name reservation and licence selection to document preparation and bank account coordination.
Ready to set up your business in DAFZA? Call Ampsy Consultancy today to get expert consultation!
Find answers to common questions about this service.
No. DAFZA registration can typically be completed remotely for standard licences, with an in-person visit required only for visa-related medical tests and Emirates ID biometrics.
You'll need shareholder passport copies, proposed trade names and a description of your activity. General trading licences also require a minimum share capital deposit.
DAFZA licenses trading, general trading, service and industrial activities, with particular strength in aviation, air-freight logistics, MRO, technology, pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.
It depends on your licence. Smart desks and serviced offices suit trading and service licences, while general trading and industrial activities require larger office or warehouse space with a higher visa allocation.