IFZA license cost in 2025 starts at AED 11,000, but the total can rise fast. Visa slots, office space, and hidden fees may add up to 30%. Over 60% of startups choose free zones like IFZA for the low entry cost, but most miss key details. According to u.ae and Dubai Chamber, IFZA is a top pick. Before you apply, know what’s included and what adds cost. Here are 6 facts that save you money.
Table of contents
|
What Does the IFZA License Cost Include?
If you’re starting a company in Dubai, knowing what’s covered in the IFZA license cost is important. This brief guide provides you with a thorough explanation. It shows what’s included, what’s not, and what you should budget for—before you apply.
Included in the IFZA Free Zone License Cost
- Official company registration with the IFZA authority
- One business license (consulting, trading, or service)
- Approval for up to 3 business activities
- Registered address in Dubai Silicon Oasis (virtual or physical)
- Visa allowance (0 to 4 visas based on package)
- Company name approval and setup documents
- IFZA government admin and filing fees
- Full foreign ownership with no local sponsor
- Application support from the setup agent
- Access to virtual office, flexi desk, or private office
- Fast setup in 7 to 10 working days
Not Included in the IFZA License Cost
- Establishment card: AED 2,200 for renewals, AED 2,000 for the first year.
- Visa processing per person: AED 2,500–5,000.
- Medical exams: AED 450–870
- Emirates ID: charged separately
- Health insurance: starts at AED 992
- Office upgrades (flexi desk, private office, or warehouse)
- A business consultant or set up agent fees.
- Regulatory clearances for specific sectors, such as finance or healthcare.
IFZA License Renewal Cost
- Usually matches the original license cost
- Establishment card renewal is billed annually
Ask for a full cost sheet before applying. This will avoid hidden charges and help you plan better from day one.
9 Key Factors That Affect the IFZA License Cost
The IFZA license cost changes based on your commerce needs. If you’re planning to set up in Dubai, knowing what affects your total fee can save you money and time. To assist you keep inside your budget, below is a detailed breakdown.
Main Factors That Change the IFZA License Cost
- Business activity: Service or consultancy licenses are cheaper. Trading or industrial ones cost more.
- Visa requirement: The more visas you need, the more you’ll pay. A zero-visa plan is the lowest.
- Office Type: A virtual office is the most affordable. Private space or a warehouse adds cost.
- Number of business activities: IFZA allows up to 3 per license at no extra charge. More may cost extra.
- Establishment card: Needed if you sponsor staff. You should budget AED 2,000 to AED 2,200 annually.
- Visa processing fees: One visa usually costs AED 3,500–4,500. This covers Emirates ID and medical examinations.
- Consultant service fees: Setup agents often charge extra for paperwork and support. Always check the full quote.
- Extra approvals: If you’re in a regulated field like healthcare or finance, you may need added permissions.
- IFZA license renewal cost: Renewal fees usually match your first-year cost with small changes.
Ask for a full-cost list before applying. This way, you stay prepared and avoid surprise charges
What Is the Average IFZA License Cost in Dubai? (2025 Guide)
Setting up a company in Dubai? One of the least expensive choices available in the UAE is the IFZA license. Whether you’re working solo, hiring a team, or running an online setup, understanding the full cost is key. Here’s a straight breakdown of everything you need to know before you apply.
1. IFZA License Cost (2025 Rates)
Zero Visa Package
- AED 12,900
- Good for solo founders or remote businesses without employees
Visa Packages
- 1 Visa: AED 14,900
- 2 Visas: AED 16,900
- 3 Visas: AED 18,900
- 4+ Visas: AED 20,900
These prices cover the license and visa allocation only. Visa processing, medical, and ID fees are extra.
Standard 1-Year IFZA License Package Costs (AED)
| Visa Quota Included | Standard Annual License Fee (AED) | Notes |
| 0 | 12,900 | No visa eligibility is included. |
| 1 | 14,900 | Often eligible for ‘1 Visa Free for Life’ promotions. |
| 2 | 16,900 | |
| 3 | 18,900 | |
| 4 | 20,900 | |
| 5+ | Incremental increases | Specific pricing is available upon request. |
2. Visa Processing Costs
Each visa includes several steps. You’ll need to pay for:
- Entry permit + Emirates ID: AED 2,500–5,000
- Medical exam: AED 450–870
- Health insurance: Starts at AED 992
- Investor visa (optional): AED 4,750
If you plan to hire staff, factor in these fees for each person.
3. Office Space Options
A registered address is required. Choose what fits your budget:
- Flexi desk: AED 5,760–10,000/year
- Private office: AED 7,500–40,000/year
- Virtual office: AED 10,000/year
- Warehouse (for industrial use): Pricing depends on space size and location
4. Extra Setup Costs
- Establishment Card: AED 2,000 (year one), AED 2,200 for renewals
- Accounting and VAT filing: AED 1,200–18,000/year depending on activity
- Business consultant service: AED 2,000–8,000 Average
- Regulatory approvals: Extra cost for healthcare, finance, education, and other regulated sectors
Schedule of Mandatory Associated Fees (AED)
| Fee Item | Typical Cost (AED) | Notes |
| Establishment Card (1st Year) | 2,000 | Required if sponsoring visas. |
| Establishment Card (Renewal) | 2,200 | Annual renewal is required if visas are maintained. |
| Residence Visa – Employee (2yr validity) | 3,750 | Per applicant. |
| Residence Visa – Investor/Partner (2yr) | 4,750 | Includes typical AED 1,000 surcharge. Per applicant. |
| Medical Examination (Normal Process) | ~450 | Per applicant, required for visa processing. |
| Medical Examination (VIP/Fast Process) | ~850 – 870 | Per applicant, optional faster service. |
| Emirates ID Application | ~370 – 390 | Per applicant, linked to visa validity. |
| Basic Medical Insurance (Indicative) | ~1,000+ | Highly variable; mandatory per applicant. |
5. Discounted Multi-Year Packages
If you plan to stay long-term, you can save by paying upfront:
- 2-Year Package: AED 21,900 (save 15%)
- 3-Year Package: AED 31,000 (save 20%)
- 5-Year Package: AED 45,200 (save 30%)
For example, a 3-year 1-visa license would cost AED 35,800 instead of AED 44,700.
Multi-Year IFZA License Costs – Examples To save by paying for multiple years in advance.
| License Duration | Visa Quota | Total Standard Cost (Duration x 1-Year Fee) | Discounted Package Price | Percentage Saving |
| 2-Year | 0 | 25,800 (2 x 12,900) | 21,900 | 15% |
| 2-Year | 1 | 29,800 (2 x 14,900) | 25,300 | 15% |
| 2-Year | 2 | 33,800 (2 x 16,900) | 28,700 | 15% |
| 3-Year | 0 | 38,700 (3 x 12,900) | 31,000 | 20% |
| 3-Year | 1 | 44,700 (3 x 14,900) | 35,800 | 20% |
| 3-Year | 2 | 50,700 (3 x 16,900) | 40,600 | 20% |
| 5-Year | 0 | 64,500 (5 x 12,900) | 45,200 | 30% |
| 5-Year | 1 | 74,500 (5 x 14,900) | 52,200 | 30% |
| 5-Year | 2 | 84,500 (5 x 16,900) | 59,200 | 30% |
6. Estimated Total Setup Costs
1: No Visa
- License: AED 12,900
- Service Fee: AED 2,000–5,000
- Total: AED 14,900–17,900
2: 1 Visa
- License: AED 14,900
- Visa & Medical: AED 7,740
- Service Fee: AED 3,000–6,000
- Total: AED 26,890–29,890
3: 3 Visas
- License: AED 18,900
- Visa & Medical: AED 14,970
- Service Fee: AED 5,000–8,000
- Total: AED 43,870–46,870
7. Annual Renewals
- License: Same cost as year one
- Establishment Card: AED 2,200
- Visa Renewal: Medical, ID, and insurance required again
- Late Fee: AED 1,000, then AED 100 per monthly
8. Other Charges
- Amendment Fee: AED 2,000 (changing activities or company name)
- Liquidation Fee: AED 2,000–2,500 plus audit certificate
- Auditor Fees: Varies by company size
One of the least expensive ways to launch a business in Dubai is through FZA. But the cost depends on your setup. A no-visa e-commerce startup pays far less than a trading firm with five employees. Always ask for a detailed quote with visa, space, and service fees listed.
Contact Business Link today to get a real quote and start your business setup in the right way.
IFZA License Renewal Cost 2025: Fees, Changes, and Process
The cost to renew your IFZA license in 2025 is usually the same as what you paid in your first year — unless you make changes.
Standard Renewal Fee
If your license stays the same, you’ll pay between AED 11,000 and AED 13,500, depending on your business activity and package.
When does the Cost Increase?
Your renewal cost could increase if you:
- Add new visa slots
- Change your license type
- Include more business activities
- Upgrade your office or services
Renewal Process
You can renew your license:
- Directly through the IFZA portal
- Or with help from a business setup agent like Business Link UAE
Renewals are usually completed in 1 to 2 working days. The process is simple and doesn’t require much paperwork.
Things to Know
- Renewal cost stays fixed unless you update your license
- Extra services mean a higher fee
- It’s best to confirm the latest quote with IFZA or a trusted setup firm
If Need Help Business Link UAE can handle the full renewal for you—quickly, clearly, and without any hidden steps.
How much does a 2025 IFZA free zone license cost?
If you’re looking to start a business in the IFZA free zone in 2025, here’s a clear breakdown of the license costs you can expect:
1. Basic License Cost (No Visa)
- AED 11,000 for a standard IFZA license without any visa allocation.
2. License with Visa Quota
- AED 13,500 to AED 15,000 for a license that includes a visa quota (ideal for small teams or startups).
3. Custom License Packages
- If you require additional visas, warehouse space, or extra services, the cost will vary. These are customized packages made to fit your unique business requirements.
Why Choose the IFZA Free Zone in 2025?
The IFZA free zone continues to be a top choice for businesses in the UAE, offering competitive pricing with flexible options. Whether you’re a freelancer, a consultant, or running a small business, IFZA’s transparent pricing makes it easier to budget for your business setup in Dubai.
Key Considerations for IFZA License Costs:
- Promotional Offers: IFZA updates its pricing plans and promotions frequently, so check for the latest deals before making a decision.
- Visa and Service Add-Ons: The more services or visas you add, the higher the renewal and setup costs will be.
- Renewal Costs: Generally, renewal fees remain similar to the initial cost unless you make modifications.
2025 Cost Comparison: IFZA vs. RAKEZ, SHAMS, and Meydan Free Zones
Starting a business in the UAE can be a cost-effective option, but knowing the exact costs for licenses, visas, office space, and renewals is crucial. This guide compares four top UAE free zones that attract startups and small businesses:
- IFZA (Dubai)
- RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)
- SHAMS (Sharjah)
- Meydan (Dubai)
We’ll break down the real costs you’ll face in the first year and provide clarity on what each free zone offers in terms of costs, flexibility, and savings.
Why Does the Right Free Zone Matter?
Selecting the right free zone is more than just comparing costs. It’s about finding the best fit for your business, considering:
- License packages and what’s included
- The number of business activities allowed
- The price of visas and the kinds that are available.
- Office space requirements
- Long-term renewal charges and hidden costs
This comparison helps you understand the upfront costs and how they align with your long-term business goals.
Base License Costs (2025)
| Free Zone | 0 Visa | 1 Visa | 2 Visas | Included Activities |
| IFZA | AED 12,900 | AED 14,900 | AED 16,900 | 3 |
| RAKEZ | AED 6,000 | AED 12,000 | AED 18,000 | 1-5 (varies) |
| SHAMS | AED 8,050 | AED 11,743 | AED 12,863 | 3-5 (varies) |
| Meydan | AED 12,500 | AED 14,350 | AED 16,200 | 3 |
:
- IFZA charges extra for general trading licenses unless discounted (around AED 10,000).
- RAKEZ and SHAMS may offer more business activities depending on the selected packages.
Visa and Establishment Costs
| Free Zone | Est. Card (Initial) | Est. Card (Renewal) | Investor Visa | Medical + ID |
| IFZA | AED 2,000 | AED 2,200 | AED 4,750 | ~AED 840 |
| RAKEZ | ~AED 2,200 | Unclear | AED 3,800 | ~AED 1,035 |
| SHAMS | ~AED 4,320 | ~AED 1,995 | AED 3,360 | ~AED 1,000 |
| Meydan | AED 2,000 | AED 2,200 | AED 4,520 | ~AED 840 |
All visa fees are based on normal processing; some zones may require security deposits.
Estimated First-Year Total (1-Visa Investor Setup)
| Free Zone | License + Fees | Visa + Medical + ID | Total Estimated Cost (AED) |
| IFZA | AED 14,900 | AED 7,590 | ~AED 22,490 |
| RAKEZ | AED 12,000 | AED 7,035 | ~AED 19,035 (+ deposit) |
| SHAMS | AED 11,743 | AED 8,680 | ~AED 20,423 |
| Meydan | AED 14,350 | AED 7,360 | ~AED 21,710 |
Office Space Costs & Requirements
| Free Zone | Office Option | Cost (AED/year) | Needed for 1+ Visas? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IFZA | Flexi-Desk | ~AED 5,760 | Yes | 10 hrs/week usage limit |
| RAKEZ | Shared Workstation | AED 10,500–16,500 | Yes | Often bundled in packages |
| SHAMS | Shared Desk | Included | Yes | Up to 6 visas allowed |
| Meydan | Shared Desk | Included | Yes | Office cost included in most plans |
Renewal Costs (Second Year Onwards)
| Free Zone | License Renewal | Est. Card Renewal | Total Yearly Renewal (AED) |
| IFZA | AED 14,900 | AED 2,200 | ~AED 17,100 |
| RAKEZ | AED 12,000 | ~AED 1,300 | ~AED 13,300 |
| SHAMS | AED 11,743 | ~AED 1,995 | ~AED 13,738 |
| Meydan | AED 14,350 | AED 2,200 | ~AED 16,550 |
Multi-Year Discount Comparison
| Free Zone | Discount Type |
| IFZA | Up to 30% for 2–5 years |
| RAKEZ | Discount varies depending on the package |
| SHAMS | Small savings for long-term contracts |
| Meydan | 15% off for multi-year licenses |
Which Free Zone Fits Your Plan?
| Your Goal | Best Fit |
| Save the most money | RAKEZ or SHAMS |
| Work from Dubai | IFZA or Meydan |
| Start fast with support | IFZA |
| Focus on digital work | Meydan |
| Creative or media business | SHAMS |
Final Recommendations
- RAKEZ or SHAMS: Best for low-cost setups and businesses that don’t need a Dubai address.
- IFZA: Ideal for businesses needing a Dubai address, long-term savings, and flexible terms.
- Meydan: Best for businesses seeking a premium Dubai location with digital operations.
Always compare setup speed, included services, visa rules, and hidden fees before choosing your free zone.
Summary
Ready to move forward? Now you know what the IFZA license cost includes—and what can raise it. From visa rules to office space, each part matters. Don’t guess. Check with Business Link UAE to get a clear quote, avoid hidden charges, and start with confidence. They’ll guide you step by step. If you’re serious about setting up smart in Dubai, this is where you begin. Ask now, save later. Your IFZA license cost shouldn’t be a surprise.
FAQ’s
Does the IFZA license cost the same for all activities?
The IFZA license cost varies based on your business activity. Consultancy and service licenses are more affordable, while industrial or import/export licenses are typically priced higher. If you plan to add multiple activities under one license, additional fees may apply. To ensure accurate pricing, always consult with your setup advisor. Getting a detailed quote will help you avoid unexpected costs and keep your business setup on track. Always confirm costs before proceeding with your application.
How Does the IFZA License Cost Compare to Other Free Zones?
IFZA offers one of the lowest license costs in Dubai. It’s a wise decision for new and small companies. Here’s why it stands out:
- Lower setup fees than DMCC or Dubai South
- No need for a physical office
- Full foreign ownership
- Visa packages that fit different needs
If you want a fast, affordable business setup in the UAE, IFZA is hard to beat. Always compare detailed quotes before starting.
Can I pay the IFZA license cost in installments?
Yes, IFZA offers flexible payment options, including installment plans for many license packages. These plans are designed to help entrepreneurs manage their startup costs. You can split the payment into two or more installments, depending on the consultant. For example, Business Link offers flexible plans for new investors. Always check with your setup agent to confirm available options so you can choose the best plan for your budget and business needs.
Does the IFZA license cost cover visa fees too?
No, visa fees are not included in the IFZA license cost.
You’ll need to pay separately for each visa. The process includes
- Entry permit
- Medical test
- Emirates ID
- Visa stamping
AED 3,500 to AED 4,500 is the average cost of a visa.
