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Your Business Setup
in Dubai's leading
Financial Hub.

Starting a business in Dubai International Financial Center is a strategic choice for financial companies. With our expert support, the process—from registration to obtaining licenses—is seamless and tailored for tech startups and financial enterprises. DIFC offers a strong legal framework, access to international markets, and a thriving ecosystem for finance and fintech, making it the ideal hub for growth and innovation. Unlock unparalleled opportunities in one of the world’s leading financial free zones.

Startup Now

A Gateway to Dubai International financial center

6 Essential Steps to Launch Your
DIFC Company

Starting a business in Dubai International Financial Center can be a complex process, but with the proper guidance, it becomes a transparent and manageable journey. At SecureVisa, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs like you navigate the intricacies of the setup process at DIFC. Our thorough, step-by-step approach ensures that every detail is covered, from choosing the suitable business activity, meeting compliance requirements, securing a trade name, obtaining necessary licenses, and setting up your office. Let us guide you through these six crucial steps, ensuring your business is set for success in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

01

Business Activity Selection

Identify and select the most suitable business activity and legal structure tailored to your entrepreneurial goals in Dubai.

02

Trade Name & Initial Approval

Secure your unique trade name by registering it with the DIFC, ensuring it aligns with your business identity.

03

Compliance & External Approvals

Obtain the necessary preliminary approvals from relevant authorities, laying the groundwork for a smooth setup process.

04

Office Space

Secure a strategic physical location in Dubai to establish your business presence and comply with local regulations.

05

License Issuance

Complete all required documentation and swiftly obtain your trade license, marking the official commencement of your business operations.

06

Visa Processing

Efficiently manage the visa application process, including medical tests and obtaining Emirates IDs for you and your employees.

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third step

Initial Approvals

Obtain the necessary preliminary approvals from relevant authorities,
laying the groundwork for a smooth setup process.

Securing Initial Approvals
in the DIFC

Obtain the necessary preliminary approvals from relevant authorities, laying the groundwork for a smooth setup process.
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Regulatory Approval
Ensure your business activity aligns with the DIFC's regulatory framework. Submit your application to the DIFC Authority for a thorough review and secure the initial regulatory approvals required to operate within this financial hub.
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Business Plan Submission
Craft a detailed business plan outlining your objectives, strategies, and financial projections. Submit this plan to the DIFC Registrar of Companies for approval, demonstrating the viability and compliance of your business.
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Financial Compliance Check
Undergo a financial compliance check by the DIFC’s regulatory body, ensuring your company meets all the financial and operational requirements. This step is crucial to gaining initial approval and avoiding delays in the registration process.
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Pre-License Approval
Once your business plan and compliance checks are cleared, apply for a pre-license approval. This temporary approval allows you to proceed with the rest of the registration process while finalizing other essential setup elements.

fourth step

Office Space

Secure a strategic physical location in DIFC to establish your business presence and comply with local regulations.

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Determine Office Requirements

Assess your space needs based on your business size and future growth to choose the right office type—whether a flexi-desk, serviced office, or full-scale commercial space.
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Submit a Lease Application

Apply for your preferred office space through the DIFC property portal or an authorized real estate agent, ensuring all business details are accurate.
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Obtain DIFC Approvals

Complete the required registration with DIFC’s Authority, including commercial licensing and compliance with regulatory standards.
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Sign Lease Agreement

Once approvals are secured, finalize your lease agreement and set up your office in the DIFC, ready to begin operations in a prestigious financial hub.

sixth step

Visa Processing

Efficiently manage the visa application process, including medical tests and obtaining Emirates IDs for you and your employees.

Visa Processing Streamlining Your Team's Transition to Dubai

With your business now licensed, the next crucial step is to ensure you and your employees are legally eligible to live and work in Dubai. The visa processing stage, including medical tests and obtaining Emirates IDs, is essential to setting up your operations within the DIFC.

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¤ Employee Visa Quota Allocation

Start by determining the number of visas your company will need. The DIFC Authority will allocate a specific visa quota based on your business activity and office space, ensuring your team size aligns with your operational needs.

¤ Medical Fitness Tests

All visa applicants must undergo medical fitness tests as part of the process. Schedule these tests at an approved medical center in Dubai. These tests are mandatory and ensure that all employees meet the health requirements set by UAE law.

¤ Emirates ID Application

Once the medical tests are completed and passed, apply for Emirates IDs for you and your employees. The Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card that provides access to government services and is essential for residency in Dubai.

¤ Visa Stamping and Residency Permit

After receiving your Emirates ID, proceed with the visa stamping process. This step involves affixing the residency visa in each employee's passport, officially granting them the right to live and work in Dubai. With the visa stamped, your team is now fully authorized to operate within the DIFC.

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