Dubai International Financial Centre

Overview

The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is a specialized economic zone in Dubai that spans an area of 110 hectares (272 acres). It was established in 2004 with the aim of becoming a financial hub for companies operating in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) markets. DIFC operates under the regulatory oversight of the Dubai Financial Services Authority, which is an independent regulator exclusive to the zone. It also has its own court system, known as DIFC Courts, separate from the legal systems of Dubai and the UAE federal government.

DIFC operates under the common law framework and conducts business primarily in English. The free zone is home to various financial institutions, wealth funds, as well as retail and hotel spaces dedicated to serving the needs of the companies operating within the zone. As one of Dubai's independent free zones, DIFC offers companies the advantage of 100% ownership without the requirement of a local partner. It provides clients with a 50-year guarantee of zero taxes on corporate income and profits, which is further supported by the UAE's network of double taxation treaties. This favorable tax environment makes DIFC an attractive destination for businesses seeking to establish a presence in the region.