Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Financial Excellence: Setting up in Dubai International Financial Centre
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the essence of financial ingenuity, carved from the visionary insights of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Serving as the region’s most esteemed financial hub, DIFC drives Dubai’s ambition to be a global nexus for institutional finance and investment.
Why should you consider Dubai International Financial Centre?
- Strategic Positioning: DIFC is a pioneering “onshore” financial hub, curating a unique environment for leading financial institutions and professionals targeting the region’s vast opportunities.
- Broadening Horizons: With the intention to broaden the financial landscapes of the Middle East, DIFC bridges the major financial markets of Europe, the Far East, and the Americas.
- NASDAQ DUBAI’s Role: Subsidiary to the DIFC Authority, NASDAQ DUBAI is poised to revolutionize regional capital markets, bringing international investors closer and integrating the region with global markets.
- A Comprehensive Ecosystem: DIFC’s holistic approach comprises three autonomous bodies, ensuring a seamless, self-sufficient financial service environment.
- Financial Sovereignty: Revel in a world of 100% tax exemption and 100% foreign ownership, bolstered by a 50-year guarantee against corporate and income tax.
- Currency Liberty: Experience the ease of dollar-denominated transactions.
- World-Class Regulatory Framework: Enjoy internationally recognized laws and regulatory processes, ensuring your business remains compliant with global standards.
- Diverse Financial Sectors: From Banking Services to Islamic Finance, DIFC caters to a vast array of financial domains, ensuring every niche finds its rightful place.
Forms of Business Licenses in DIFC
- Company Limited by Shares (LTD);
- Limited Liability Company (LLC);
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP);
- Limited Partnership (LP);
- General Partnership (GP);
- Branch of a Foreign Entity (Recognized Entity);
- Representative office.
Licensing Activities in DIFC
DIFC categorizes Authorized Firms into five distinct license categories based on their activities, each with specific financial services and varying rules and capital requirements.
- Category 1 encompasses activities like accepting deposits and providing credit.
- Category 2 covers services such as dealing in investments, both as a principal and agent, providing trust services, managing assets, and offering custody.
- Category 3 includes operating a collective investment fund, managing profit-sharing investment accounts, and arranging deals in investments.
- Category 4 involves advising on financial products, operating alternative trading systems, and insurance intermediation.
- Category 5 is reserved for Islamic Financial Institutions.
Additionally, an Authorized Firm in a higher category can offer services from lower categories, but not vice-versa. The DIFC also recognizes Ancillary Service Providers (ASPs), which encompass law and accounting firms serving licensed institutions. Lastly, Authorized Market Institutions (AMIs) include entities operating exchanges or clearing houses within the DIFC.
Register Your DIFC Venture with AE Formations
AE Formations transcends the traditional boundaries of business setup consultancy. When you partner with us:
- Effortless Setup: Our seasoned experts ensure your transition into DIFC is seamless and efficient.
- Bespoke Solutions: Every financial dream is unique. We tailor our services to ensure your goals align perfectly with the DIFC’s vision.
The Dubai International Financial Centre is the global stage for financial businesses. Schedule a discussion with us to know more about setting up in DIFC.