Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority
Next to Dubai International Airport — the world's busiest hub for time-sensitive cargo and aviation businesses.
Emirate
Dubai
Est.
1996
Cost/Year
AED 25,000 – 80,000+ / year
Setup Time
2–3 weeks
Visas
Based on office or warehouse size
Office
Physical office or warehouse required
About DAFZA
DAFZA (Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority), established in 1996, is located directly adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB) — the world's busiest international airport. DAFZA is specifically designed for businesses that depend on air connectivity: aviation companies, cargo operators, fast-moving goods traders, pharmaceutical distributors, electronics traders, and logistics businesses. Its on-airport location provides unmatched access to air freight facilities and customs-bonded warehouses.
Ideal for
Aviation companies, cargo agents, pharmaceutical and medical device distributors, electronics traders, luxury goods companies, fashion traders, and any business where air freight speed is critical.
Pros & Considerations
Advantages
- On-airport location — direct airside access to DXB, world's busiest airport
- Bonded customs warehouse — defer duty on air cargo
- Fastest air cargo clearance in the UAE
- Purpose-built infrastructure for aviation and logistics
- Strong airline and cargo community on-site
- 24/7 operational capability for cargo businesses
Watch out for
- Among the highest-cost free zones in the UAE
- Restricted to companies benefiting from airport proximity — not cost-effective otherwise
- Limited space availability at premium airport-adjacent locations
- Traffic congestion around DXB can affect ground logistics
Licence Types
Popular Business Activities
Permitted activities vary — we confirm your specific activity before registration.
Setup Process
Facility Needs Assessment
Determine whether you need office space, bonded warehouse, or cold storage. Location within DAFZA depends on activity type.
Application & KYC
DAFZA's application process includes activity verification and KYC screening relevant to customs-sensitive operations.
Facility Lease
Sign lease for office or warehouse. Premium airport location commands market-rate pricing.
Licence Issuance
Trade licence issued within 2–3 weeks of complete documents and facility confirmation.
Customs Registration
Register with Dubai Customs for bonded warehouse operations, cargo handling, and clearance procedures.
Cost Breakdown
| Licence fee (annual) | AED 25,000 – 80,000+ / year |
| Registration / one-time fees | AED 2,000–5,000 (one-time) |
| Visa cost (per person) | AED 3,500–5,500 |
| Emirates ID (per person) | AED 370 |
| Medical test (per person) | AED 300–600 |
| goCorp service feeIncluded | Advisory — get a quote |
| Bank account setup | Advisory — get a quote |
Premium location commands premium pricing. Warehouse space adjacent to airport is among the most expensive in the UAE. Office-only setups are more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Started
Set up in DAFZA today
Free consultation, full quote, and end-to-end formation support. Typical timeline: 2–3 weeks.
Get a free quote Talk to an expertQuick Specs
Emirate
Dubai
Founded
1996
Setup Timeline
2–3 weeks
Annual Cost
AED 25,000 – 80,000+ / year
Visa Allocation
Based on office or warehouse size.
Office Requirement
Physical office or warehouse required. On-airport location with direct customs-bonded zone access.
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