If you’re an ambitious entrepreneur or startup founder exploring the Dubai market, you already know the UAE’s unmatched advantages—strategic location, 100% business foreign ownership, tax-free incentives, and global connectivity.
But with so much outdated or conflicting information online, setting up your company in Dubai can feel overwhelming.
Don’t worry—this 2025 guide breaks down the full process of company formation in Dubai IFZA Freezone, clearly and confidently.
At Corporate Business Services (CBS), we’ve helped thousands of entrepreneurs launch and scale their businesses across the UAE for over 18 years.
As an Emirati-owned business consultancy firm in Dubai, we know the landscape inside out—helping you skip the guesswork and succeed faster.
Our services include business license applications, visa and PRO services, market entry advice, accounting, tax services, and more.
Want to know how we can assist you in navigating the business setup process in Dubai? Book a free consultation now with our expert business advisors.
Why IFZA Is One of the Best Free Zones in Dubai for Entrepreneurs in 2025?
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is one of the most dynamic and business-friendly environments in Dubai offering 100% business ownership to foreigners and a streamlined business setup process.
Here’s why thousands of global entrepreneurs are choosing IFZA for their Dubai business setup in 2025:
- Strategic Location and Tax Benefits: Positioned in the heart of Dubai, IFZA offers unparalleled connectivity and access to the global market.
Coupled with the UAE’s low corporate tax policy and the absence of personal income tax, setting up in IFZA can significantly enhance your competitive edge.
- Flexible Business Licenses: IFZA offers a wide range of business activities and licenses, including those tailored for e-commerce, technology, trading and consultancy sectors.
This flexibility ensures that you can align your business operations with the most suitable license type, paving the way for seamless growth and expansion.
The Step-by-Step Business Setup Process in IFZA Freezone
Setting up a new company in IFZA involves several steps and ensures compliance with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the IFZA Freezone Authority for a smooth business setup process.
To navigate this process, it is recommended that you seek the guidance of a reputable business advisor in Dubai. At CBS we are always a step forward in providing the best business setup advice for those looking for new company formation in Dubai.
Here’s a simplified guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activities & License Type
Define what your business will do. IFZA offers business licenses for trading, tech, consulting companies, and more.
Not sure which fits you best? Our CBS business advisors can guide you to the best option—based on 2025 regulations and your growth goals.
Step 2: Register Your Company Name
This stage requires you to choose a unique name for your company and ensure it aligns with the UAE’s naming conventions and doesn’t infringe on any trademarks.
Once selected, you will now need to register the name with the DET.
Step 3: Prepare the Necessary Documentation
Once your company’s name has been approved, you will be required to submit all required documents, including your passport copy and that of any shareholder in the company, a business plan, and any necessary approvals ( base on your activity).
Step 4: Submit Your Application, Get Initial Approval and Pay Fees
The next step will be to submit your application for opening a business in Dubai IFZA to the IFZA Authority in which they will review to give you the go ahead to apply for a business license in Dubai IFZA.
Once this is done, you will be required to pay the necessary fees which include the business license fee and other related costs.
At CBS, our team of expert Public Relations Officers in Dubai can help you navigate this process with ease, allowing you to focus on your core business operations.
Step 5: Obtain Your Business License and Start Operations
Once your application is approved and all related fees paid, you’ll receive your business license.
Congratulations, you’re now ready to move forward with final steps such as applying for visas for yourself and your employees and open a business bank account in UAE.
How Much Does It Really Cost to Start a Business in Dubai IFZA in 2025?
Setting up a business in Dubai has become a hot topic among entrepreneurs, especially with enticing ads proclaiming you can do so for as little as AED 5,000.
Many ads promote AED 5,000 company setup in Dubai—but what does that really cover? Spoiler: not much.
Let’s break down the real costs you should expect in 2025.
Business License Fees
The actual cost to get a business license in Dubai IFZA is based on the type of license and the number of business activities you wish to include.
For example, the initial cost of a business license for starting a trading company in Dubai might be higher than that of opening a consultancy company in Dubai.
Another factor that can affect the price of a trade license in IFZA free zone is the number of activities under the license. Generally, license fees start from AED 11,500, making it one of the most cost-effective free zones in Dubai.
Office Space and Utilities
Though IFZA always offers a free workspace in their business setup packages, you may need to rent office space depending on your company’s operational requirements, adding to the initial cost for opening a company in Dubai.
However, you might not necessarily need to rent an office space if you are planning to operate your business as a solo entrepreneur.
Additional Costs
Be aware that there are additional costs involved in registering a company in Dubai. This includes, trade name reservation fee, visa application fee and of course a consultation fee which vary as per the business advisor’s charges.
Choosing the Right Business Setup Partner in Dubai: Don’t Fall for the AED 5K Trap
Not all advisors are created equal. Some lure you in with low prices, only to upsell you at every step.
At CBS, our support is transparent, tailored, and focused on helping you grow—not just get licensed.
- At CBS, we provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique business needs, ensuring you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary upsells.
- With a deep understanding of the UAE business landscape, CBS offers unparalleled insights and connections, helping you tap into local growth opportunities and industry networks.
Ready to Get Started? Book Your Free 1-on-1 Consultation Today!
