Companies in Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ): Pharamceuticals, Tech & More

Nestled at the crossroads of global commerce, Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) stands as a key hub for business in the Middle East. It offers a strategic location and other benefits for companies looking to establish or expand their presence in the region. As a pivotal hub for trade, technology, logistics, and innovation, DAFZ continues redefining the international business landscape.

Explore the dynamic world of Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) and what makes this free zone a cornerstone of Dubai’s economic landscape.

Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ)

DAFZ is one of the most prominent free zones in Dubai. Established as a gateway to the Middle East market, DAFZ's appeal lies not only in its prime location adjacent to one of the world's busiest airports but also in its state-of-the-art infrastructure, tax incentives, and comprehensive support services tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses across industries.

Since its inception in 1996, DAFZ has been providing direct access to one of the world's busiest hubs, facilitating seamless connectivity to global markets including Europe, the Indian Subcontinent, and the Far East. Currently, DAFZ hosts over 2,800 registered businesses spanning more than 20 sectors, accommodating a workforce exceeding 20,000 professionals.

The tax incentives, coupled with state-of-the-art infrastructure including modern offices, warehouses, and advanced telecommunications facilities, make DAFZ an ideal choice for companies seeking to establish or expand their presence in the region. Whether launching a startup or expanding operations, DAFZ offers the ideal platform to capitalize on Dubai's strategic advantages and position oneself at the forefront of global trade and commerce.

Benefits of Setting Up a Company in DAFZ

DAFZ offers numerous compelling benefits that attract businesses from around the globe. Here are some of the advantages of setting up a company in this dynamic free zone.

Strategic location: Located adjacent to Dubai International Airport, DAFZ provides unrivaled access to global markets in Europe, Asia, and beyond facilitating seamless logistics and connectivity.

Tax advantages: Companies enjoy 100% foreign ownership, exemption from corporate taxes for up to 50 years, and full repatriation of profits, maximizing profitability and financial flexibility.

Infrastructure: State-of-the-art facilities including modern offices, warehouses, and advanced telecommunications infrastructure support operational efficiency and growth.

Business-friendly environment: Streamlined processes for business setup, licensing, and visa issuance expedite entry into the market, while a supportive regulatory framework encourages innovation and growth.

Sector diversity: DAFZ hosts over 2800 companies across diverse sectors such as technology, logistics, aviation, healthcare, and more, fostering a vibrant business ecosystem and potential for collaboration.

Efficient services: Rapid clearance and efficient paperwork processing ensure minimal bureaucratic hurdles, enabling businesses to focus on core activities and enhancing overall productivity.

Networking opportunities: Access to a diverse community of international businesses, industry leaders, and potential partners facilitates networking, collaboration, and business expansion.

Quality of life: Dubai's cosmopolitan lifestyle, world-class amenities, and favorable living conditions attract skilled professionals, supporting the recruitment and retention of top talent.

Support services: Comprehensive support services including legal, administrative, and advisory services cater to the specific needs of businesses, ensuring smooth operations and compliance.

How to Set Up a Company in DAFZ

DAFZ was established with the vision to provide an ideal environment for a diverse range of businesses. Whether you are launching a startup or expanding an established company, DAFZ offers comprehensive guidance and streamlined processes to facilitate your business setup journey.

Setting up your business in Dubai as a UAE entity is now simpler than ever with DAFZ's fast and efficient setup process. In just three steps, you can become part of the thriving DAFZ business community:

Step 1: Choose your license

Selecting the right license is crucial to align with your business activities. DAFZ offers several types of licenses tailored to different business needs. Based on your business activity, you can choose from the following:

Trade license: Enables trading activities including import, export, re-export, distribution, and storage of specific products.

E-commerce license: Allows for online trading of goods and services.

Service license: Geared towards service-oriented businesses.

Industrial license: Permits light manufacturing, industrial activities, packaging, and assembly.

General trading license: Allows trading in a wide range of activities.

Dual license with Dubai Economic Department (DED): Enables DAFZ companies to operate in mainland Dubai without physical office space.

Talent pass license: Facilitates freelancing activities within media, technology, or education industries, offering visa entitlement and smart office leasing.

Step 2: Choose your company type

Based on the business structure of your company, you can choose from the following:

Freezone company: Established within DAFZ with 1-50 shareholders. This type of company requires a minimum of USD 273 capital share. The companies with more than AED 15,000 in share capital will have to show a bank share capital letter.

Public limited company (PLC): Offers shares publicly and is suited for companies wishing to list on a securities market.

Branch: Allows foreign companies to set up a representative office with no share capital requirement.

Step 3: Choose your space

DAFZ provides a range of modern and efficient spaces tailored to meet diverse business needs.

Office space: Equipped with state-of-the-art amenities.

Warehouse / industrial space: Ideal for logistics, manufacturing, and storage needs.

Cold storage: Specifically designed for temperature-sensitive goods.

Service Offerings at DAFZ

DAFZ offers comprehensive business setup and administrative services designed to simplify launching and managing enterprises. This includes a one-stop-shop concept providing direct access to government departments, private entities, and service providers. The DAFZ Business Service Portal further enhances convenience with over 250 essential services accessible via smartphone.

Comprehensive set-up and operational services

DAFZ offers a wide array of setup and operational services tailored to meet your specific business needs. Some of them are:

Business license services: Guidance and processing for obtaining the necessary licenses and permits.
Leasing and licensing: Assistance in securing office space and obtaining free zone licenses.
Incorporation and registration: Formation of new free zone establishments or branches of foreign companies.
Office lease agreements: Flexible leasing options tailored to your business requirements.
Interiors and facilities management: In-house interior design services and comprehensive facilities management solutions.
Government services: Direct access to key government entities including Dubai Customs, Dubai Police, Directorate of General Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Chamber, and Emirates Post.
Information and communications technology: Telecom services, IT support packages, and integrated solutions.
Security services: 24/7 CCTV surveillance, comprehensive safety systems, and certified fire safety training.
Visa services: Processing of residence visas, work permits, healthcare cards, and family sponsorship visas.

Visa services for business startups

DAFZ provides comprehensive visa services aimed at ensuring compliance with Dubai's residency regulations. The services include assisting business owners in securing residence visas, work permits, and healthcare cards for themselves, their families, and their employees. DAFZ extends its support to facilitating medical reports and handling other essential documentation, ensuring a streamlined process for all visa and sponsorship requirements.

Companies in DAFZ

Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) stands as one of the region's premier business hubs, hosting a diverse array of over 2,800 registered companies from more than 20 industries. Here are some of the companies that have made DAFZ their home.

Boeing International Corporation
Red Bull FZE
Airbus Africa and Middle East
National AirCargo Middle East
Bando Singapore Middle East
Prestigeland
Epson Europe
Kawasaki Heavy Industries
Michelin Dubai AIM HQ
Fossil Group
BenQ
Toyota Motor Corporation
PAUL HARTMANN Middle East
Heinz Africa & Middle East
ProSoft Technology
Axis Communications
Maxim Foods
Swiss Image International
Sowaan Arabia
Candy ME FZE
Jet Aviation Dubai
Steelco International
Yakult Middle East
DHL (EEMEA Headquarters)
Expert Logistics Solution
Precast FZCO
Estee Lauder Middle East
VOGUE Telecom FZCO
Thales Dubai
Honor International
Panasonic Avionics Corporation
ACE Hardware Middle East
Emcure Pharmaceuticals
Medscan FZCO
The Himalaya Drug Co
Hospira

Location and Accessibility

The Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) benefits from its proximity to Dubai International Airport, ensuring easy access to international air routes. Situated near major road networks such as Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and the Emirates Road, DAFZ enjoys seamless connectivity to Dubai's central business districts and beyond. This strategic location not only enhances logistical efficiency for businesses within the free zone but also positions it as a pivotal hub for global trade and investment activities.

Moreover, DAFZ is served by the Dubai Metro's Green Line, with the dedicated Dubai Airport Freezone Metro Station providing convenient public transportation access. Additionally, the area is well-serviced by RTA buses, further facilitating connectivity and accessibility for businesses and visitors alike.