IFZA Free Zone License : Cost, Formation & Documents Required

Key Takeaways

• IFZA is one of Dubai’s most popular free zones because it offers fast setup, flexible business activities, and some of the most affordable licensing options in the UAE.
  
  
• The typical IFZA license cost ranges from AED 10,000–30,000 ($2,700–$8,100), with additional visa expenses of AED 3,800–4,800 ($1,030–$1,300) per person.
  
  
• IFZA allows 100% ownership, no paid-up capital, remote setup, and smooth visa processing, making it ideal for freelancers, startups, and SMEs looking for a low-barrier entry into Dubai.

Why IFZA is One of Dubai’s Fastest-Growing Free Zones

IFZA has quickly become one of the most preferred free zones for entrepreneurs and international investors, especially those looking for business setup in Free Zone Dubai that is smooth, cost-effective, and flexible. When clients speak to us about Dubai free zones, IFZA comes up often and for good reason. It’s affordable, fast, and welcoming for startups as well as established businesses. What makes it even more appealing is how easy it is to expand your license, add business activities, and apply for visas without running into unnecessary complications.

What many people don’t realise is that IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) originally launched in Fujairah before relocating to its current home in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). This strategic move played a major role in strengthening its reputation. DSO is a well-connected, innovation-driven district that offers a more premium business environment, better accessibility, and stronger global visibility. Since the relocation, IFZA has grown rapidly and is now recognised for its streamlined processes, competitive packages, and truly investor-friendly ecosystem.

If you’re exploring IFZA free zone license costs, requirements, formation steps, or visa options, this guide covers everything you need based on our years of hands-on experience helping companies establish and scale their presence in Dubai.

What is an IFZA Free Zone License?

An IFZA free zone license allows you to legally operate a business within the International Free Zone Authority in Dubai. It gives you:

• 100% foreign ownership
  
  
• Zero corporate tax (if qualifying conditions are met)
  
  
• Full profit repatriation
  
  
• A wide range of approved business activities

Unlike some free zones that have stricter requirements, IFZA keeps things straightforward. 

Your business structure, activity selection, and visa choices can be customized based on what you actually need.

Benefits of Setting Up a Business in the IFZA Free Zone

From a consultant’s perspective, here’s why we believe IFZA continues to stand out:

Among the Most Affordable Setups in Dubai

IFZA free zone cost packages are among the lowest for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and SMEs.

Fast Approvals

We’ve had clients receive trade name approvals and license issuance much quicker here compared to other free zones.

Wide Business Activity List

Whether you're in tech, consulting, trading, marketing, logistics, or media, IFZA likely covers your activity.

No Paid-Up Capital

You don’t need to show bank proof of capital.

Remote Setup Allowed

Most clients appreciate that they don’t need to be physically present in the UAE for initial approval.

Smooth visa processing

IFZA provides well-coordinated visa services that save time and confusion.

Types of IFZA License Categories

IFZA offers several license types, each covering different activities:

• Professional License: For service-oriented businesses (consulting, marketing, HR advisory, etc.)
  
  
• Commercial License: For trading, general trading, import/export
  
  
• Industrial License: For light manufacturing-related activities
  
  
• Holding Company License: For asset and company ownership structures
  
  
• Media License: For creative and content-focused businesses
  
  
• E-commerce License: For online businesses and digital selling
  
  

• Expert insight: Most service-based clients go for the Professional License, while traders typically prefer the Commercial License.

IFZA Free Zone License Cost (2025 Updated Fees)

• Expert reminder: Expect additional government fees, including Name Reservation, Initial Approval, and Document Issuance (stamping, MOA, share certificate).
  
  In some cases, such as special activity approvals, there may be extra steps involved.
  
  
• Expert advice: We often recommend multi-year packages to clients who want predictable budgeting and cost stability.
  
  IFZA offers discounted pricing if you choose a 2-year package, which typically provides 10–15% savings, or a 3-year package, which can offer up to 20–25% savings.

IFZA Establishment Card & Visa Fees

If your license includes visas or you plan to add visas later, here’s what to expect:

• Establishment Card Fee: AED 2,000 – 2,500 ($540 – 675)
  
  
• Entry Permit: AED 900 – 1,200 ($245 – 325)
  
  
• Change of Status: AED 750 – 900 ($203 – 245)
  
  
• Medical Test: AED 300 – 400 ($81 – 108)
  
  
• Emirates ID: AED 1,000 – 1,200 ($270 – 325)
  
  
• Visa Stamping: AED 850 – 1,100 ($230 – 300)

Total visa cost per person: AED 3,800 – 4,800 ($1,030 – 1,300)

Office Facilities & Workspace Options at IFZA

IFZA offers office options depending on your visa needs and business type:

• Flexi Desk: Shared workspace, cost-effective
  
  
• Private Offices: For businesses requiring physical space
  
  
• Dedicated Desks: For teams needing stable workstations
  
  
• Warehousing Solutions: For trading or logistics companies

Most new businesses choose Flexi Desk due to cost savings.

Step-by-Step IFZA Company Formation Process

Here’s the exact process we walk clients through:

1. Choose your business activities

Select from 2,000+ approved activities.

2. Pick license type and visa allocation

Your IFZA free zone cost depends heavily on this step.

3. Submit your documents

A passport copy, photo, and address proof are usually enough for initial approval.

4. Receive approvals

Trade name + initial approval.

5. Pay the license fee

Once processed, IFZA issues your business license.

6. Apply for an Establishment Card

This unlocks your visa quota.

7. Apply for visas (if needed)

Entry permit → medical → Emirates ID → stamping.

8. Open a Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account dedicated to business transactions and benefit from IFZA’s strong banking relationships.

• Expert experience: Most setups take 3 to 5 working days if documents are clear and no special approvals are needed.

Documents Required for IFZA Company Formation

Note: IFZA is known for minimal paperwork compared to other jurisdictions.

IFZA Free Zone License with RadiantBiz

When business owners come to us for a Dubai free zone setup, we start by helping them choose the right jurisdiction. 

If IFZA is the best match for their business model, we hand the case over to a dedicated IFZA specialist on our team. From there, we review your business activities, ensure they’re fully covered under IFZA’s structure, and recommend the package that fits your goals and budget, without any unnecessary add-ons.

We’ve been working with IFZA since day one. In fact, IFZA was one of our earliest free zone partners, and over the years, we’ve built a strong relationship that gives our clients access to smoother processes, clearer guidance, and exclusive cost-saving packages that aren’t always available publicly.

Our long-standing partnership with IFZA has also earned us multiple recognitions over the years, including:

• IFZA Partner Performance Award – Q1 2022
  
  
• IFZA Outstanding Partner Award – 2024
  
  
• Plus several additional acknowledgments for service excellence and client support.

This partnership allows us to give clients what they really want: a fast, simple, and supported setup experience with one of Dubai’s most flexible and entrepreneur-friendly free zones.

FAQs 

1. What is the IFZA license cost for 2025?

The typical IFZA license cost ranges from AED 10,000 to 30,000 ($2,700 to 8,100), depending on visa allocation and activities.

2. How much is the IFZA license renewal cost?

The IFZA license renewal cost is usually the same as the first-year license fee, unless you choose to upgrade your activity or visa package.

3. Do I need to be in the UAE to open an IFZA company?

No. You can complete most of the process remotely. For visas, you must be physically present for medical tests and biometrics.

Is an IFZA License Right for Your Business?

If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible, and fast-entry setup in Dubai, IFZA stands out as one of the strongest choices in 2025. The cost structure is fair, the process is smooth, and the visa options give you real room to grow. Whether you're a freelancer testing the UAE market or an expanding SME planning long-term operations, IFZA offers a clean, practical path to building your business in Dubai especially when supported by experienced business setup consultants in Dubai who understand the system inside out.

If you want help choosing the right IFZA license package without unnecessary add-ons or hidden complications, rely on our professional, on-the-ground guidance. Contact us via email at info@radiantbiz.com, WhatsApp, or call us at +971 52 132 2895. We’ll keep it simple, strategic, and aligned with your growth plans.