Everything You Need to Know About Dubai Airport Free Zone

Your 2025 guide to the Dubai Airport Free Zone: where the dream of doing business in Dubai takes off (and it does)! Whether you are a first-time entrepreneur, a global investor in the region, or just someone interested in this thriving business hub’s opportunities, you’ve come to the right place.

In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of the Dubai Airport Free Zone: what it is, licensing, company formation, costs, local service, and even the nearby Dubai Airport Free Zone metro station. Let’s keep it simple, helpful, and readable.

What is Dubai Airport Free Zone?

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is one of the premier business locations in the Dubai free zone ecosystem. Established in 1996 to promote trade and foreign investment, it’s adjacent to the Dubai International Airport, making it an excellent location for businesses that require rapid access to international markets.

It’s a designated free zone with a wealth of benefits:

• No personal or corporate tax
• 100% foreign ownership
• Full profit repatriation
• Zero customs duty

Dubai Airport Free Zone Dubai United Arab Emirates is home to more than 3,000 companies in sectors including IT, aviation, pharma, logistics, and more.

If you’re wondering what Dubai Airport Free Zone is, it’s not just an area—it’s a complete business ecosystem.

Free Zone Business Licensing

DAFZA Business License: A specialised license mandated to establish a business in the Dubai Airport Free Zone. This is the first step. Moreover, the license type is decided based on your activity. So, knowing your options can matter. DAFZA is flexible in that respect. Every license caters to certain requirements. So, choose wisely.

1. Trade License

This is a great license for import, export, and distribution. It also includes storage activities and enables you to transfer products without restriction, which is good for trading companies.

2. Service License

Ideal for IT, consulting, and marketing companies. There are a variety of services you can provide. You might also deal with local or global clients. Hence, most professionals find it suitable.

3. Industrial License

Apply this to production, assembly, and packaging. It enables light industrial activity and facilitates the growth of small factories, so it can be good for product-based businesses.

4. E-commerce License

This license allows you to sell online, displaying your Goods or Services to the world. It also works with B2B and B2C platforms, so it’s ideal for digital businesses.

5. General Trading License

It is good for mixed trading operations. It allows you to sell a large number of products. In addition, it’s broad and adaptable, so it is very suitable for businesses with many products.

6. Dual License with DED

This allows you to operate in DAFZA and mainland Dubai. It prevents you from applying twice, so it’s perfect for anyone scaling locally or beyond.

Business setup consultants in Dubai can make this Freezone license process simple.

Properties in Dubai Airport Freezone Area

Dubai Airport Free Zone has various properties that cater to different business use cases. The area is safe and well-connected, and the buildings are modern and functional. Hence, it provides flexibility and comfort to businesses, which is why many companies prefer this place in terms of ease and amenities.

1. Smart Workstations for Small Businesses

Smart desks are ideal for startups and solo entrepreneurs. They provide shared office space and cover internet, utilities, and support services so you can get started easily and cheaply.

2. Boutique Headquarters for Mid-Size Operations

Boutique offices are ideal for scaling teams. They provide private space and businesslike layouts, and you have freedom on size. That’s why they fit well with consulting firms or service providers.

3. High-End Amenities in Premium Offices

Premium offices are working spaces that offer a lavish environment. Other services include meeting rooms, lounges, and concierge services. Furthermore, they enhance your business profile, which is why many multinational companies prefer them.

4. Logistics and Manufacturing: Industrial Units and Warehouses

These units are designed for storage, packaging, and assembly. They have loading docks and security. Additionally, they assist with supply chain operations, so they’re great for logistics and manufacturing.

DAFZA also recently unveiled the DAFZA Industrial Park, which features modern, flexible units suitable for expanding companies.

Company Formation in Dubai Airport Free Zone

Dubai Business Setup Inside DAFZA Setup is fast and simple.

Steps:

• Choose your license type
• Select office space
• Submit legal documents
• Pay fees
• Slide and start with getting your license

These steps are time-consuming and exhaustive, but the business setup consultants in Dubai will handle these processes for you.

DAFZA Company Formation Cost

Here’s a handy overview of company formation packages:

The cost of general trading licenses is around AED 199,242, and the share capital deposit is AED 500,000. These visa costs vary between AED 2,696 and AED 4,200 based on whether you apply inside or outside the UAE.

Types of Company Formation in DAFZA

There are two main options:

1. FZCO (Free Zone Company)

• 1 to 50 shareholders
• Ownership by a corporation or a person
• Requires share capital

2. Branch Office

• No share capital is needed
• 100% owned by the parent company
• Activities are the same as the parent business

Types are awesome for Dubai business setup with a flexible approach.

DAFZA Business Benefits

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) is among the first choices for multinational workers. It offers many advantages, including being near major transport routes. Additionally, the services offered are quick and dependable, so companies can scale quickly. Various investors need DAFZA for easy activities and worldwide reach.

1. Strategically located close to Dubai International Airport

DAFZA is next to the airport, which facilitates the speedy movement of cargo. Besides, clients and partners can easily reach you, so it’s good for world trade and business travel.

2. 24/7 Customs and Cargo Clearance

Around-the-clock customs services for businesses. So, shipments are not bogged down.” Additionally, swift clearing promotes a healthy supply chain flow. So, your operations are running smoothly day and night.

3. Pay No Taxes and Get All the Profit

The companies themselves do not pay income or corporate tax. In addition, they may also repatriate 100% of their profits. This means you retain more of your income and scale faster in the long term.

4. Fast Setup and Approvals

There is a rapid process to start in DAFZA. You can obtain licenses and approvals quickly. Furthermore, reducing paperwork means saving time. So you can begin operating without long waiting times.

5. Talk to 1.5+ Billion Consumers.

DAFZA connects you with world markets and is well-located for Asia, Europe, and Africa exports. Thus, your business can easily reach more than 1.5 billion consumers.

These benefits also help DAFZA become the first choice for overseas investors and startup companies.

Public Transportation in Dubai Airport Freezone

Public transport links make it super easy to get to and from DAFZA.

Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) Metro Station

DAFZA station (part of the Dubai Airport Free Zone metro station 1) is located on the Green Line, simplifying commuting for employees and tourists.

You can get to any part of Dubai in 30 minutes.

Hotels Near Dubai Airport Freezone Area

Here are some nearby hotels:

• Millennium Airport Hotel
• Premier Inn Dubai International Airport
• Holiday Inn Express

These hotels help business travellers to be closer to their offices in DAFZA.

Super Markets in Dubai Airport Freezone Area

Need groceries? No problem!

• Carrefour Market inside DAFZA
• Zoom convenience stores
• Choithrams nearby

Supermarkets and hypermarkets in DAFZA make it easy for people working or living in the area to shop.

Churches, Temples, and Mosques in Dubai Airport Freezone

DAFZA embraces all cultures and faiths. Here’s where you can go:

• Mosques: One at the site and one in Al Qusais nearby
• Churches: St. Mary’s Church (10 min drive)
• Temples: Bur Dubai Hindu temples (20 mins away)

It complements the area’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.

Dubai Airport Freezone Schools in Dubai

Schools around DAFZA for families include:

• The Westminster School
• Dubai Scholars Private School
• Grammar School Dubai

Perfect for expat families that work in the Free Zone

Dubai Airport Freezone Hospitals

Health and safety come first! Nearby hospitals include:

• Thumbay Hospital Dubai
• Aster Hospital Al Qusais
• Zulekha Hospital

This region is rapidly serviced by reliable emergency dispatch.

Malls in Dubai Airport Freezone

When work’s over, play is on the agenda. Visit:

• City Centre Deira
• Al Ghurair Centre
• Reef Mall

The malls have food courts, cinemas, shopping, and much more.

Beaches Near Dubai Airport Freezone

Want to go to the beach after work?

• Al Mamzar Beach: 20-minute drive
• Jumeirah Beach: Approximately 30 minutes by car

Living or working in DAFZA doesn’t spell the end of fun in the sun!

Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station

Let’s learn more about the Dubai Airport Free Zone Metro Station 1. It directly connects to the Green Line, a major plus for businesses, as staff and visitors can easily access the area without getting behind the wheel.

Nearby landmarks include:

• Dubai International Airport – Terminal 2
• Al Qusais industrial area
• Deira City Centre (only 10 mins)

DAFZA Warehouses

DAFZA’s Light Industrial Units (LIUs) are best suited for logistics, packaging, and storage:

• 350 sqm size units
• 90 sqm office area (ground + mezzanine)
• F Visa for 20 workers (2015, 2016, 2017)

They’re ideal for cold storage, electronics, or fashion businesses.

Get Help from Us

It can be overwhelming to start a business. That’s okay! We’re here to help. Moreover, in Dubai, our business setup specialists simplify the task. We guide you to choose the right license, making each option clear so you can choose the one that works best for your business. We take care of finding the right space for you. And we align with your budget and business type. That way, you don’t waste time or money.

All the documents and visas are taken care of by us. That way, you won’t have to be concerned about delays. It is all easy, peasy, and smooth sailing for us. We handle license renewals and PRO. We also remind you ahead of deadlines. As a result, your business remains operational without a problem. Starting a business in DAFZA is hassle-free with business setup experts in Dubai.

FAQs

Q1. What is the DAFZA company setup time?

It generally takes 3 to 7 business days. However, to avoid any delay, ensure that all documents are complete.

Q2. Can I open a branch of my foreign company in DAFZA?

Yes, you can. In addition, there is no requirement for share capital. It is an easier and less elaborate process than forming a new company.

Q3. Is DAFZA a VAT-free zone?

Yes, it is. DAFZA is a designated VAT-free zone, meaning businesses don’t pay VAT on the goods and services within the zone.

Q4. Can I live near DAFZA?

Yes, you can. In addition, many residential areas surround schools, shops, hospitals, and other necessities for a comfortable life.

Q5. Can a DAFZA company be 100% foreign-owned?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed. So, you don’t need a local sponsor or partner to start and run your company.

Q6. What types of licenses are available in DAFZA?

DAFZA issues trade, service, and industrial licenses. Plus, depending on business activity and plan choice.

Q7. Do I need to register my employees in DAFZA?

Fine, you can sponsor employees. The number depends on the size of your office and the business activity you select.

Q8. Are there banks inside DAFZA?

Yes, there are banks inside. You can establish a business account easily without remaining in the zone.

Conclusion

More than a place for an office, the Dubai Airport Free Zone is the intelligent option for businesses wanting to expand in the UAE and beyond. DAFZA: Your Launchpad For Success With Tax Savings, Great Infrastructure, Rapid Transport, & Robust Government Support

Business setup in Dubai Freezone is simplified when you are in DAFZA, for both startups and expanding operations. Do you need help? Contact business setup consultants in Dubai to turn your dreams into reality.