The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) in Dubai is one of the UAE's most dynamic and fastest-growing free zones, offering attractive business conditions to entrepreneurs from all over the world. Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the IFZA offers international companies the opportunity to set up in a well-developed infrastructure and benefit from the various tax and economic advantages of a free zone.

Companies based in IFZA Dubai

IFZA has attracted a remarkable number of companies in recent years. Here are some of the main reasons why many companies choose IFZA as a location:

1. Broad industry diversityCompanies from almost all sectors are based in the IFZA. From technology companies, consulting firms, trading companies and service providers to start-ups active in creative fields such as marketing and design. IFZA's flexibility in terms of business categories has attracted many entrepreneurs.
2. Attractive license optionsIFZA offers various licenses, including commercial, service, industrial and consulting licenses. This makes it particularly attractive for companies that want to be active in several business areas.
3. Easy market accessAs IFZA is located in Dubai, local companies have access to one of the most important business locations in the world. Dubai serves as a gateway to the Middle Eastern, African, Asian and European markets, making IFZA a strategic hub.
4. Tax advantagesCompanies in the IFZA benefit from a tax-free regime, in particular a corporate tax exemption for 50 years and an exemption from value added tax (VAT) on international services.

Number of companies and growth

The exact number of companies based in the IFZA is not regularly published, but it is reported that the free zone has experienced steady growth in recent years. Hundreds of companies have established themselves in the free zone since its inception, and new ones are added every year. The combination of flexible licensing options, a well-developed infrastructure and favorable tax conditions attracts international start-ups and SMEs in particular.

Offices at IFZA Dubai

IFZA offers a wide range of office space tailored to the needs of different companies. Here are some features of the office space:

1. Flexible rental agreementsCompanies can rent office space flexibly, whether for a year or longer, depending on their business needs. The office spaces are available in various sizes, from small start-up offices to large spaces for multinational companies.
2. Fully equipped officesMany of the office spaces at IFZA are fully furnished and offer modern office facilities, including fast internet connections, telephone lines and meeting rooms. This makes it particularly attractive for international companies, as they do not have to worry about furnishings and can be operational immediately.
3. Co-working spacesFor smaller companies or start-ups that do not require large spaces, IFZA also offers co-working spaces. These shared workspaces are cost-efficient and provide an excellent opportunity for networking.
4. Support ServicesIn addition to office space, IFZA also offers administrative and secretarial services so that companies can benefit from comprehensive support in running their business.

Real estate in IFZA and the surrounding area

The properties in IFZA and its surroundings are of high quality and reflect Dubai's overall development standards. IFZA is located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, a state-of-the-art tech park-like development specifically designed to provide excellent infrastructure and amenities for companies and their employees.

1. State-of-the-art infrastructureThe buildings in and around IFZA are well developed, with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure designed to meet the needs of international companies. The location in Dubai Silicon Oasis ensures that companies have access to reliable electricity and water supply systems as well as fast internet.
2. Comfortable and modern facilitiesThe properties are often equipped with numerous amenities, such as parking facilities, restaurants and cafés nearby, gyms and other leisure facilities. This ensures a pleasant working environment for employees and contributes to productivity.
3. Access to residential real estateIn addition to business premises, Dubai Silicon Oasis also offers high-quality residential real estate. This means that entrepreneurs and employees who want to work nearby have access to modern apartments and villas in the immediate vicinity. These residential areas offer a high quality of life and are particularly attractive due to their proximity to IFZA.

IFZA Dubai is a fast-growing hub for companies looking to expand into Dubai. The large number of resident companies, attractive tax benefits, flexible licensing models and high-quality office and real estate options make IFZA one of the preferred free zones in Dubai. The office space is modern, flexible and offers a good starting point for any company looking to set up in the region. In addition, the location in Dubai Silicon Oasis offers an excellent quality of life for both companies and their employees.

Comparison of IFZA Dubai with other free zones: JAFZA, DMCC, DSO and RAKEZ in focus

A comparison of IFZA Dubai with other free zones in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) shows that each free zone offers unique features and benefits that appeal to specific industries and business needs. Here are the key differences between IFZA and other major free zones in the UAE such as the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)the Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC) and the Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO).

1. IFZA Dubai vs. Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

JAFZA is one of the oldest and largest free zones in the UAE and is located near Jebel Ali Port, the largest port in the Middle East. JAFZA mainly attracts large industrial and logistics companies as access to the port is crucial.

• Industry focusJAFZA is ideal for logistics, manufacturing and trading companies. IFZA, on the other hand, is aimed more at smaller companies, start-ups and service providers.
• InfrastructureJAFZA offers large-scale warehouses and industrial facilities, while IFZA focuses more on modern office space and services.
• LocationIFZA is located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, roughly in the city center and closer to Dubai's business hubs. JAFZA, on the other hand, is located further out, close to the port and Al Maktoum International Airport, making it ideal for logistics companies, but less central for companies that do not require physical proximity to these facilities.
• CostsThe set-up costs and fees in IFZA are generally lower than in JAFZA, which makes it more attractive for smaller companies.

2. IFZA Dubai vs. Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)

DMCC is one of the most well-known free zones in Dubai and attracts mainly trading and commodity companies. It is located in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Tower (JLT) and has a strong focus on commodities trading, particularly precious metals, diamonds and energy.

• Industry focusDMCC is primarily aimed at companies from the commodities sector and global trade. IFZA, on the other hand, offers a broader range of business licenses and does not specialize in a particular sector.
• Location and officesDMCC offers high-end office real estate in one of Dubai's most vibrant residential and business districts. The offices and services in IFZA are also high quality, but the location in Dubai Silicon Oasis is more of a business and technology center, compared to the urban atmosphere of JLT.
• Cost structureDMCC is known for its relatively high rental and fit-out costs, particularly in relation to prime office space. IFZA often offers more cost-effective office and license solutions, which makes it particularly attractive for smaller companies and start-ups.
• Additional servicesDMCC offers specialized services for the commodities sector, such as special trading platforms and storage solutions for precious metals and diamonds. Such specialized services are not necessary in IFZA, as it appeals to a broader target group.

3. IFZA Dubai vs. Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is both a free zone and a technology park designed specifically for technology companies. IFZA is located in DSO, but offers a slightly different business model.

• Industry focusDSO is strongly technology-oriented and promotes innovative tech companies, start-ups and research & development. IFZA, on the other hand, attracts a broader range of businesses, including services, trade and consulting, which makes it more diverse.
• Set-up costsDSO offers favorable options for tech start-ups and specifically promotes the technology sector with financial incentives. IFZA, on the other hand, is suitable for various industries and also offers competitive cost structures for companies that do not have specific technology funding requirements.
• InfrastructureBoth free zones benefit from the modern infrastructure of Dubai Silicon Oasis, but DSO is more focused on technology infrastructure such as data centers and high-tech offices. IFZA offers more flexible office solutions for different types of businesses.

4. IFZA Dubai vs. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)

RAKEZ is a free zone in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah and primarily offers cost-effective solutions for manufacturing and industrial companies.

• Industry focusWhile IFZA focuses on a wide range of services, trade and consulting, RAKEZ is more specialized in the manufacturing and production industry. It offers specialized zones for heavy industry, light industry and warehousing.
• CostsRAKEZ is generally cheaper than IFZA, especially when it comes to large projects, manufacturing and industries. However, IFZA is competitive compared to RAKEZ when it comes to office space and services as it offers a more urban environment.
• LocationIFZA benefits from its central location in Dubai, which offers companies immediate access to Dubai International Airport and the business hubs. RAKEZ is in Ras Al Khaimah, about an hour away from Dubai, which makes it less attractive for companies that need to be close to Dubai.

Conclusion

Compared to other free zones, IFZA Dubai offers an excellent balance of cost, flexibility and infrastructure, especially for small and medium-sized companies that want to benefit from Dubai as an international hub. While free zones such as JAFZA and RAKEZ are better suited for logistics and manufacturing companies, IFZA shines with flexible office and business solutions for service providers and start-ups. DMCC specializes in commodities trading, while DSO is geared towards the technology sector. Ultimately, the choice of free zone depends on a company's specific business requirements. However, IFZA remains a particularly attractive option for companies looking for a flexible and economically advantageous location in Dubai.