Overview
Established in 1996, the Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ) is a specialized business hub located adjacent to Dubai International Airport (DXB). Its strategic position makes it ideal for businesses that rely on air freight, rapid logistics, and proximity to international markets. DAFZ is designed to serve light industries, trading firms, and service providers across sectors such as electronics, aviation, aerospace, ICT, and luxury goods.
As of 2025, DAFZ hosts more than 3,000 registered companies across 20+ sectors, employing over 20,000 professionals, and plays a key role in Dubai’s position as a global trade and transport gateway.
Strategic Advantages
- Airport Adjacency: Direct access to Dubai International Airport enables efficient customs handling and fast global cargo movement.
- Connectivity: Ideal for companies with supply chains spanning Europe, the Indian subcontinent, the Far East, and the wider GCC.
- Regulatory Flexibility: DAFZ offers a streamlined regulatory environment with 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and no import/export duties within the zone.
- Dual Licensing Scheme: Through a partnership with Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET), DAFZ entities can obtain a Dubai mainland license without requiring physical office space onshore — allowing business operations to legally extend beyond the free zone.
License Types in DAFZ
DAFZ offers several licensing options tailored to a wide range of business activities:
- Trading License: For companies engaged in commercial trading or general trading of goods and materials
- Service License: For consultancy, advisory, or other professional services
- Industrial License: For light manufacturing or assembly operations
- Talent Pass License: A freelance-style license for professionals in media, education, or technology — suitable for creatives, solo consultants, or digital nomads
- Dual License (DAFZ–DET): Enables eligible DAFZ entities to legally operate in mainland Dubai without the need to establish a separate office outside the free zone
Available Facilities
DAFZ offers a variety of commercial and light industrial real estate options, subject to availability and activity requirements:
- Office Spaces – Fully furnished or customizable units
- Warehouses – For storage, logistics, or light production
- Showrooms – For product display or trade-related activity
- Retail Outlets – Subject to activity approval
- Co-working Spaces & Workstations – For startups, freelancers, or lean operations
- Flexi Desks – Available for select license categories and activities
Common Business Sectors in DAFZ
DAFZ attracts companies from industries that benefit from high-speed logistics and global air cargo networks. These include:
- Aerospace and aviation
- Electronics and high-value trading
- Information and communication technology (ICT)
- Luxury goods and fashion
- Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
- Freight forwarding and logistics
Compliance & Regulatory Considerations
- Ownership: 100% foreign ownership allowed
- Taxation: Qualifying businesses may be eligible for 0% corporate tax under UAE Free Zone rules (subject to Corporate Tax Law as of 2024)
- Residency: Investor and employee visas available
- Compliance: Companies must meet requirements under UBO and AML/CFT regulations
Who Should Consider DAFZ?
DAFZ is well-suited for:
- Businesses with high dependency on air logistics
- Global firms managing time-sensitive product lines
- Tech and media professionals seeking a flexible licensing model
- Companies requiring warehousing and office solutions near the airport
- Firms targeting both free zone and mainland Dubai markets via dual licensing
Benefits of Partnering with Crowe UAE for Company Incorporation
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Ilhaam Maniar
Manager - CMBC