Guide to the IFZA Activity List for Entrepreneurs
Guide to the IFZA Activity List for Entrepreneurs
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is a rapidly growing free zone located in the heart of the United Arab Emirates. Entrepreneurs prefer IFZA due to its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and comprehensive range of services. IFZA offers entrepreneurs and companies an ideal platform to establish and expand their operations. It provides a diverse array of business activities that cater to various industries. This article explains the IFZA activity list as well as steps to start a business in IFZA free zone.
Why IFZA?
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is a prominent free zone in the emirate of Fujairah. It is located on the east coast of UAE and allows access to the Indian Ocean. This strategic location allows it easy access to the international market. IFZA Dubai attracts businesses and startups all over the world by offering a range of benefits and incentives. It offers business-friendly policies and regulatory environment as well as a streamlined business setup process. Additionally, it offers a wide variety of business sectors, including trading, services, industrial, holding, media, educational, and e-commerce activities.
Moreover, companies registered in IFZA enjoy benefits of 100% corporate tax exemption, 100% import and export tax exemption, 100% repatriation of profits and capital, as well as 100% foreign ownership. Along with that, IFZA provides visa packages for shareholders and employees, facilitating the relocation and hiring process. Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, modern warehouses and office spaces, as well as industrial units, is also a worth mentioning feature of IFZA. Moreover, IFZA offers administrative support, legal assistance, and business consultancy services to businesses.
Business Licenses in IFZA
IFZA free zone allows as wide range of business activities for businesses. IFZA offers various types of business licenses based on business types. Below is a brief description of IFZA business licenses.
Professional Licenses
A professional license is specific to professional services. It allows services like IT, marketing, legal, finance and other services to operate in UAE. To obtain a professional license, businesses must choose an appropriate professional activity from the IFZA activity list. A brief IFZA activity list of professional license activities is as follows:
| Activity Name | Description |
| Software Development | Creating custom software solutions, applications, and systems. |
| IT Support and Maintenance | Providing ongoing support and maintenance for IT infrastructure. |
| Cybersecurity Services | Protecting organizations from digital threats and ensuring data security. |
| Technical Consulting | Offering expertise in specific technical fields such as engineering, IT, and other specialized areas. |
| Advertising | Creating and managing advertising campaigns across various media. |
| Digital Marketing | Utilizing online platforms to promote products and services, including SEO, social media marketing, and email marketing. |
| Architectural Design | Providing design and planning services for buildings and structures. |
| Civil Engineering | Offering expertise in the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects. |
| Environmental Engineering | Advising on environmental impact assessments, sustainability, and compliance with environmental regulations. |
| Medical Consultancy | Providing expert advice on medical practices, healthcare management, and patient care. |
| Wellness Coaching | Offering guidance on fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness. |
| Therapy Services | Providing psychological and physical therapy services. |
| Training and Development | Offering professional development and training programs for businesses and individuals. |
| Tutoring Services | Providing educational support and tutoring in various subjects. |
| Language Instruction | Teaching languages to individuals and groups. |
Commercial Licenses
Commercial licenses are trading licenses and are specific to trading activities. Business owners can buy and sell goods both within the UAE and internationally after acquiring this license. It is ideal for businesses involved in wholesale, retail, import, export, and distribution of various products. A brief IFZA activity list that falls under commercial licenses is as follows:
| Activity Name | Description |
| General Trading | Import and export of a wide range of products. |
| Automobile Trading | Trading of new and used cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. |
| Electronics Trading | Trading of electronic goods such as computers, mobile phones, and home appliances. |
| Textile and Garment Trading | Trading of textiles, clothing, and fashion accessories. |
| Building Materials Trading | Trading of construction materials like cement, steel, and other building supplies. |
| Food and Beverage Trading | Import, export, and distribution of food products and beverages. |
| Furniture Trading | Trading of household and office furniture. |
| Medical Equipment Trading | Trading of medical devices, equipment, and supplies. |
| Jewelry and Precious Metals Trading | Trading of gold, silver, and other precious metals and jewelry. |
| Pharmaceuticals Trading | Import, export, and distribution of pharmaceutical products. |
| Petroleum Products Trading | Trading of various petroleum products. |
| Stationery and Office Supplies Trading | Trading of office supplies, stationery, and related products. |
| Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Trading | Trading of beauty products, skincare, and personal care items. |
| Toys and Games Trading | Trading of toys, games, and educational products for children. |
| Sporting Goods Trading | Trading of sports equipment and athletic wear. |
| Household Appliances Trading | Trading of kitchen appliances, cleaning devices, and other household gadgets. |
| Machinery and Equipment Trading | Trading of industrial machinery and equipment. |
| Paper and Paper Products Trading | Trading of various paper products. |
| Chemical Products Trading | Trading of industrial and consumer chemicals. |
| Agricultural Products Trading | Import and export of agricultural products and equipment. |
| Packaging Materials Trading | Trading of packaging materials and supplies. |
| Marine Equipment Trading | Trading of marine equipment and supplies. |
| Footwear Trading | Trading of shoes, boots, and other footwear. |
| Leather Goods Trading | Trading of leather products such as bags, belts, and wallets. |
| Musical Instruments Trading | Trading of musical instruments and related accessories. |
| Glass and Glass Products Trading | Trading of glass products for various uses. |
| Pet Supplies Trading | Trading of pet food, accessories, and supplies. |
| Optical Instruments and Products Trading | Trading of optical goods like glasses, contact lenses, and optical instruments. |
| Art and Craft Materials Trading | Trading of art supplies and craft materials. |
| Bicycles and Bicycle Parts Trading | Trading of bicycles and related parts. |
| Safety and Security Equipment Trading | Trading of safety gear and security systems. |
| Watches and Clocks Trading | Trading of watches, clocks, and timepieces. |
| Gardening Equipment and Supplies Trading | Trading of gardening tools, equipment, and supplies. |
Tourism License
A Tourism License in IFZA is designed for businesses engaging in a wide range of tourism-related activities. This license type allows companies to offer professional services such as travel agencies, tour operators, and hotel management. With a Tourism License, business owners can establish their presence in a prime location in Dubai and benefit from flexible licensing options. A tourism license makes sure that a business meets the standards set by the Department of tourism. The IFZA activity list under this license is as follows:
| Activity Name | Description |
| Travel Agency Services | Booking and arranging travel services, including flights, accommodations, and transportation. |
| Tour Operator Services | Organizing and conducting tours, excursions, and travel packages for individuals and groups. |
| Hotel Management | Managing and operating hotels, resorts, and other lodging facilities. |
| Event Management | Planning and managing events such as conferences, exhibitions, weddings, and corporate events. |
| MICE Tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) | Organizing and managing MICE events for corporate clients. |
| Destination Management Services | Providing comprehensive destination management services, including local transportation, activities, and tours. |
| Ticketing Services | Selling and issuing tickets for various travel and tourism-related activities. |
| Travel Consultancy | Offering consultancy services related to travel planning, visa arrangements, and itinerary customization. |
| Hospitality Consultancy | Providing consultancy services for the hospitality industry, including hotel development and operational improvements. |
| Transport Services | Offering transportation services for tourists, including car rentals, shuttle services, and guided tours. |
| Leisure and Recreation Services | Organizing leisure and recreational activities such as theme park visits, museum tours, and entertainment events. |
| Sports Tourism | Arranging sports tourism packages, including tickets to sporting events and related travel arrangements. |
Industrial License
An Industrial License in IFZA allows businesses to engage in a wide range of manufacturing and production activities. Additionally, businesses have the advantage of the strategic location of IFZA for operations with access to both local and international markets. This license type facilitates the establishment of industrial units and factories. It allows companies to transform raw materials into finished products.
You can see a comprehensive list of business activities allowed in the IFZA free zone here.
Steps to Open a Business in IFZA Free Zone
The company formation process in IFZA is straightforward. But having a sharp consultant can streamline the process and ensure your success. Oak Business Consultant are experts in navigating the intricacies of IFZA setup, providing you with a seamless and efficient experience. As a strategic partner with IFZA, Oak Business Consultant offers unparalleled business setup consultant expertise and support for company registration process. Below is a comprehensive guide regarding the company registration procedure in IFZA free zone.
Choose the Type of Business Activity
To start a business in IFZA, you need to Determine the type of business activity you plan to undertake. IFZA offers a range of activities. That includes trading, consulting services, professional consultancy, manufacturing and tourism. Go through the list of activities provided by IFZA authorities to verify if your intended business activity is mentioned in the allowed activities list.
Select a Business Structure
Once you have picked the business activity, you need to decide the legal structure for your company. Options include Free zone establishment (FZE), Free zone company (FZC) or Free zone Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and branch offices or subsidiaries of foreign companies. Each business structure has different regulatory requirements, costs involved and benefits.
Choose a Business License
Based on your business activity, select the appropriate business license. IFZA offers various licenses such as professional or service, commercial or trading and industrial licenses. You can also choose a single license that covers a variety of business activities. Select the type of license you need for your business activity. Some businesses may require approval from related UAE entities, for example, to start a food manufacturing business, you need approval from related entities.
Find a Suitable Business Location
The next step is to pick an ideal location within the IFZA Business Park for your business. You may be looking for physical space for your office or interested in exploring virtual office solutions. Options include physical offices, virtual offices, and Smart Offices. Each option provides different levels of physical presence and facilities to the businesses. Physical office space options allow businesses access to modern facilities and conference rooms. A virtual office is best for businesses that do not require permanent physical office space in the IFZA-free zone. Virtual offices allow them to have a mailing address in UAE and access to meeting rooms at a low cost. Smart offices allow flexible access to IFZA aminities to the businesses.
Prepare Required Documents
Once you have decided on your business activity, license and office, it’s time to gather the necessary documentation for your company formation. The documents you may require include:
- License Application Form
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Digital Passport Photo
- Emirates ID and Visa copy for UAE residents
Submit the Company Formation Application
Submit your application for company incorporation to the IFZA authorities. Ensure you meet the regulatory requirements and provide all necessary documentation. A good company registration consultancy like Oak Business Consultant can ease this process for you by making sure a foolproof application submission.
Obtain Approvals and Licenses and Set the Office
Once your application is reviewed, obtain the necessary approvals and company licenses. This includes any external approvals from related UAE entities required for specific business activities, i.e., maunfacturing. You choose the office space set up of your requirement in the application form. Now its time to set up your chosen office space.
Open Bank Accounts and Arrange Finances
You need to open a corporate bank account. IFZA provides bank account opening support to businesses registered in IFZA free zone. This process may have some additional costs, such as bank fees and minimum balance requirements. To open a corporate bank account, first, choose a bank that suits your business needs, such as Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq Bank, or Dubai Islamic Bank. Gather the necessary documents, including the trade license, Establishment Card, passport copies of shareholders and signatories, and a board resolution if applicable. Submit your application to the chosen bank along with the required documents. Be prepared to make an initial deposit as required by the bank, which varies depending on the bank and the type of account.
Apply for Visas
Now, you require a residency visa for yourself, your dependents and your employees. The IFZA offers various visa options like Investor Visas and dependent visas. Ensure you follow the visa application process and meet the visa allocations. The number of visas you can request for your employee depends on the type of business you have initiated in the free zone.
Launch Your Business Operations
Once all the steps are completed, you can begin your business operations. Take advantage of the vast array of resources and networking opportunities offered by IFZA. This includes access to international trade networks and support for foreign investments. You can also utilize advertising services and Consulting Services available within the IFZA Free Zone to promote your business. Ensure your business meets international service standards to attract a global clientele.
By following these comprehensive steps and leveraging the benefits and resources provided by IFZA, you can successfully establish and grow your business in this strategic free zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Free Zone (IFZA)?
IFZA is a business hub in Dubai that supports various business activities and provides numerous benefits, making it ideal for international businesses and investors.
How to Get a Visa in the International Free Zone (IFZA)?
- Complete company formation.
- Obtain an IFZA Establishment Card.
- Submit the visa application with required documents.
- Undergo medical tests and get an Emirates ID.
- Receive your residence visa.
What are the Types of Company Formation Options Offered by IFZA?
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): Single shareholder.
- Free Zone Company (FZC): Multiple shareholders.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: Extension of an existing foreign company.
How Can I Get an IFZA License?
- Choose your business activity.
- Select the license type.
- Prepare necessary documents.
- Submit the application and fees.
- Receive your IFZA business license.
Conclusion
Setting up a business in the International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) offers numerous benefits for businesses, from strategic location and cost-effective solutions to modern facilities and comprehensive support services. By following the outlined steps and utilizing the IFZA activity list, you can successfully register your business in the UAE and commence business operations in this vibrant business hub.
Streamline your business setup in IFZA with the expertise of Oak Business Consultant. As a strategic partner with IFZA, Oak Business Consultant provides unparalleled professional consultancy services in company registration, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience. Contact Oak Business Consultant today to start your journey towards successful business operations in the UAE’s dynamic free zone.
