Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading international financial hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, is continuing to prioritise the ease of doing business with the introduction of new licencing categories and fees designed to make establishing businesses within the Centre easier and more affordable.
Under the new Short-Term licencing category, retail businesses and other non-financials will now be able to operate their businesses from DIFC with flexible rates over shorter timeframes.
In addition, Restricted Licences have been introduced to firms interested in developing or testing new or innovative products and services in the DIFC. Entities obtaining this licence will benefit from a reduced registration fee of US$100, and with annual licence fees ranging from US$1,000 to US$4,000, allowing more flexibility for innovation
The Commercial Permissions category will allow both DIFC and non-DIFC entities such as event companies, retail outlets, training providers or educational services to conduct their main business activities within the DIFC at competitive rates. Fees for Commercial Permissions range from US$100 to US$2,000, depending on the nature of activity and duration
Finally, Dual Licencing also enables DED licenced non-financial and non-retail firms with an affiliate in the DIFC to operate from the centre. This includes law firms, audit firms, consultancy firms, family businesses, holding companies and corporate service providers
The Centre’s vision is to drive the future of finance. Today, it offers one of the region’s most comprehensive FinTech and venture capital environments, including cost-effective licensing solutions, fit-for-purpose regulation, innovative accelerator programmes, and funding for growth-stage start-ups.
