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Free Zones

IFZA Free Zone: Why It's Become the Go-To for Startups

August 7, 2026 5 min read
IFZA Free Zone: Why It's Become the Go-To for Startups

IFZA — the International Free Zone Authority — has grown rapidly to become one of Dubai's most popular jurisdictions. Here's what makes it stand out.

IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) is licensed by the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority and sits in one of Dubai's most connected tech hubs. It has become a favourite for consulting firms, tech startups, and e-commerce businesses. ## Key Advantages - 100% foreign ownership - Multiple business activities on a single licence - Fast setup: 5 working days typical - Competitive cost structure relative to DMCC or DIFC - Up to 3 investor visas on the base package ## Who It's Best For Consultants, service businesses, e-commerce operators, and any company that doesn't need a physical UAE trading counter. IFZA makes sense when you want the UAE as a base for operations or an international hub. ## What It Doesn't Cover IFZA companies cannot trade directly with UAE mainland customers without a distributor agreement. If direct mainland sales are core to your model, consider a mainland or dual-licence structure. ## Setup Timeline Typically 5 working days for the licence. Bank account: 2–4 weeks depending on the bank. Our team handles both.

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