Although primarily a financial hub, DIFC Free Zone provides extensive opportunities for non-financial businesses as well. Below are some of the popular activities that firms engage in within the free zone.

Banking and Capital Markets

DIFC Free Zone allows companies to undertake activities like corporate banking, trade finance, lending, crowdfunding platforms, and cash management.

Wealth and Asset Management

With focus areas such as fund management, private equity, and hedge funds, DIFC Free Zone is a top choice for wealth and asset management activities in the MEASA region.

Insurance and Reinsurance

DIFC hosts firms offering a broad range of insurance and reinsurance services, covering life, non-life, takaful, and retakaful lines.

FinTech

DIFC provides an innovative ecosystem for entrepreneurs to launch their FinTech businesses and has become a leading FinTech hub in the MEASA region.

Food & Beverage (F&B)

DIFC Free Zone also permits the establishment of cafes and restaurants. Currently, the center hosts numerous local and international chains, offering a wide variety of cuisines.

For businesses looking to set up in DIFC Free Zone, Rotanabiz can provide expert guidance and support tailored to your industry needs.

Step 1: Establishment Card Application

If visas are required, Rotanabiz will apply for your company’s establishment card as the first step.

Step 2: E-Visa Application

We will submit an application for your e-visa and provide it to you once obtained.

Step 3: UAE Entry or Status Change

The next step is UAE entry or an in-country change of status for the applicant. You may enter the UAE during the e-visa’s validity period, even if you are not currently in the country. Once you enter, provide us with a stamped copy of your e-visa. If you are in the UAE when your e-visa is issued, we will handle the status adjustment. However, immigration authorities may require you to leave and re-enter the UAE, which will be determined case-by-case.

Step 4: Medical Test

You will need to undergo a medical test. Rotanabiz will assist you throughout this process.

Step 5: Emirates ID Biometric Submission

To obtain your Emirates ID, you must submit your fingerprints, photo, and signature. We will guide you through this process.

Step 6: Health Insurance Plan

Since health insurance is mandatory for visa issuance, you will need to obtain a health insurance plan. We can assist you in choosing a basic health insurance plan.

Step 7: Visa Approval and Emirates ID Issuance

Once your visa application is approved, your Emirates ID will be issued. Rotanabiz provides comprehensive support for setting up a DIFC Free Zone company, from obtaining the trade license to processing residence visas for shareholders and employees.

The DIFC Free Zone offers a range of office space options for businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises. With flexible solutions tailored to different needs and budgets, DIFC provides options from affordable workspaces to prestigious business addresses.

Flexible Office Solutions

Serviced Offices

Fully furnished and equipped offices with access to meeting rooms, administrative support, and high-speed internet. These are ideal for companies seeking a hassle-free setup with minimal upfront costs.

Co-working Spaces

Shared workspaces that encourage collaboration and networking opportunities. Co-working spaces in DIFC Free Zone foster a vibrant community environment and offer flexible membership plans.

Virtual Offices

Ideal for businesses that need a prestigious business address without physical office space. Virtual offices provide mail handling, call answering services, and access to meeting rooms when needed.

Executive Offices

High-end office spaces designed for senior executives and professionals. These offices offer premium facilities, including private meeting rooms and concierge services, ensuring a professional and sophisticated work environment.

Customizable Office Solutions

For businesses with specific requirements, DIFC Free Zone offers customizable office spaces that can be tailored to meet unique operational needs. This option allows companies to design their office layout and select amenities that best support their business activities.

For Individual Shareholder(s)

• Clear and colored scanned passport copies of each shareholder
• Latest UAE entry stamp or UAE visa of each shareholder (if available)
• Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
• Passport-sized photo of each shareholder (requirements: colored, white background, shoulders and head showing, dark clothing, no jewelry or eyewear, and no visible teeth)
• Proof of address for each shareholder

For Corporate Shareholder(s)

• Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
• Business license (for an existing company)
• Board Resolution
• Certificate of Incorporation

Note: Additional documents may be required depending on specific circumstances.