DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) is a free economic zone (free zone) established in 2004 in the Emirate of Dubai, UAE. DIFC is one of the largest financial hubs in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region, attracting leading financial institutions, law firms, technology companies, and consulting organizations from around the world.
DIFC offers a unique business ecosystem for banks, insurance companies, investment funds, as well as innovative startups in FinTech, InsurTech, RegTech, and Islamic FinTech. The free zone combines a cutting-edge legal infrastructure based on English common law, an independent judicial system, and strict international regulatory standards, providing companies with reliable legal protection and favorable conditions for scaling and growth. Companies registered in DIFC are permitted to conduct business within the free zone and beyond the UAE.
DIFC issues the following types of business licenses:
- Financial services (banking, insurance, investments)
- Professional services unrelated to financial activities
- FinTech and innovation
- Retail and leisure
With its international status, advanced technologies, and support for innovation, DIFC offers ideal conditions for companies seeking to scale and expand into global markets.