Foreign Nationals Own 100% of a Company in IFZA Dubai
While the UAE has long been known as a business-friendly jurisdiction, the country’s policies have recently been overhauled. Now, foreign nationals can enjoy 100% ownership of companies in certain sectors—including trading, manufacturing, and services—provided they partner with a local service agent who helps them with all the necessary paperwork but has no stake in the company’s ownership. The new policy is intended to encourage entrepreneurship and help the UAE diversify its economy, which will make it more resilient to future economic challenges.
As such, now is a great time to invest in a new business. However, if you want to avoid any headaches and ensure that your new business is fully compliant, it’s best to hire an experienced local firm to handle the entire process. An expert will be able to advise you on the most suitable business jurisdiction for your company and help you complete the required paperwork quickly and efficiently. They will also be able to provide you with a list of reliable service providers, which can take care of everything from accounting and payroll processing to marketing and office space rental.
Dubai IFZA is one of the world’s leading free zones and offers a wide range of licensing options and business activities for investors to choose from. The region’s most attractive features include zero corporate and income taxes, 100% foreign ownership, repatriation of capital and profits, and streamlined processes. In addition to these benefits, IFZA Dubai also provides access to high-quality workforce and modern facilities.
Can Foreign Nationals Own 100% of a Company in IFZA Dubai?
IFZA is an international free zone authority in the United Arab Emirates, optimizing the country’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure to provide premium-standard business setup solutions. Companies established in IFZA enjoy 100% foreign ownership, zero personal or corporate taxes, no currency restrictions, flexible visa options, warehouse facilities and access to world-class infrastructure.
To set up a 100% foreign owned company in the UAE, you need to have a clear idea of what kind of business you would like to establish. Depending on your business requirements and the size of your investment, you can choose from various business licences available in IFZA. A commercial licence is ideal for organizations involved in trading and distribution, while an industrial license is suited for businesses that produce and process goods. If you are planning to import raw materials, it is also possible to apply for a special permit.
Once you have chosen the type of company you would like to set up, you can submit a detailed business plan and the required documents to IFZA. In order to obtain a commercial licence, you will need to submit passport copies, photos, investor details, and the company’s share capital. Once your application is reviewed, you will be granted a trade license. The rest of the business setup process can be handled remotely, and no physical presence is required.