DIFC Company Formation
ATB LegalDIFC
Company Formation
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world’s most advanced financial free zones, operating under English common law and home to global banks, funds, and fintech innovators.
At ATB Legal, we simplify the process of setting up your DIFC entity—from choosing the right structure to obtaining all regulatory approvals. Our team of dual-qualified lawyers and compliance experts works closely with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to ensure your business launch is smooth, compliant, and future-ready.
We make incorporation in the DIFC efficient, compliant, and strategically aligned with your global ambitions.
At ATB Legal, we simplify the process of setting up your DIFC entity—from choosing the right structure to obtaining all regulatory approvals. Our team of dual-qualified lawyers and compliance experts works closely with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) to ensure your business launch is smooth, compliant, and future-ready.
We make incorporation in the DIFC efficient, compliant, and strategically aligned with your global ambitions.
Corporate, Dispute Resolution & Regulatory Lawyers in Dubai
Bridging Law and Business in the Heart of Dubai’s Financial Centre
Types of Entities in DIFC
We advise on and register all permitted legal forms, including:
- Private Company Limited by Shares (Ltd)
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Prescribed Company (SPC)
- Special Purpose Company (SPC) for holding and structured finance
- Non-Profit Incorporated Organisation (NPIO)
Each structure carries distinct ownership, governance, and compliance requirements. We guide you through the choice based on your commercial intent and licensing scope.
Typical Timeline
Name Reservation & Initial Approval: 2–3 business days
Document Preparation & Signing: 3–5 business days
ROC Incorporation & License Issuance: 5–7 business days
Bank Account Opening (Optional): 7–10 business days
Average total: 2–3 weeks for standard entities.
Our Company Formation Services
1. Legal Structuring & Feasibility Review
Assessing optimal entity type and ownership model
Reviewing eligibility under DIFC Companies Law No. 5 of 2018
2. Incorporation & ROC Registration
Drafting constitutional documents (MOA, Articles of Association)
Filing incorporation documents with the ROC
Securing trade names and share capital setup
3. Regulatory Approvals & Licensing
Liaising with DFSA for financial services authorization
Guidance for non-financial service licenses
Preparation of compliance policies (AML, Data Protection, Governance)
4. Corporate Bank Account Assistance
Introductions to DIFC-registered banks and account setup support
5. Post-Incorporation Compliance
Annual filings, license renewals, and economic substance reporting
Corporate secretarial and registered office services
Uncompromising Quality Why Choose ATB Legal for Your DIFC Setup
- Direct liaison with ROC and DFSA officers for fast turnarounds
- Integrated legal and tax advisory through our corporate practice
- Cost-transparent packages for startups and multinationals alike
- Multilingual team (English, Arabic, Hindi, Malayalam) for seamless communication
- Ongoing support for compliance and expansion into Mainland or Free Zones
Contact ATB Legal
Secure your legacy through ATB Legal, your ideal partner to safeguard your assets and ensure a prosperous future for your loved ones.
FAQs
Can a foreign investor own 100% of a DIFC company?
Yes. DIFC permits 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor.
Is a DIFC license valid across the UAE mainland?
No. A DIFC license permits operations within the Centre and cross-border transactions, but a separate Mainland license is required for onshore activities.
What is the difference between ROC registration and DFSA authorization?
ROC registration establishes the legal entity. DFSA authorization is required if your business offers regulated financial services (e.g., fund management, advisory).
Does DIFC require office space?
Yes, a registered address within DIFC is mandatory, though flexible desk options are available for certain entities.
Our Offices
Let's Connect
We invite you to visit our offices or reach out to us via email at your convenience. Whether you’re a long-standing client, a new enquiry, or a legal or corporate collaborator, we’re here to listen, guide, and support.
We value meaningful conversations—with clients, legal professionals, and referral partners who share our commitment to ethical practice and regulatory compliance.
Your queries, introductions, and suggestions are always welcome.
We value meaningful conversations—with clients, legal professionals, and referral partners who share our commitment to ethical practice and regulatory compliance.
Your queries, introductions, and suggestions are always welcome.
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Office 1325, Dar Al Salam Building
Corniche, P.O. Box 6157
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Tel: +971 2 886 9955
Office 1325, Dar Al Salam Building
Corniche, P.O. Box 6157
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Tel: +971 2 886 9955
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Incubator Building, Masdar City
P.O. Box 6157, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Tel: +971 2 443 6767
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Incubator Building, Masdar City
P.O. Box 6157, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Tel: +971 2 443 6767
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Office B05-314B Business Centre 04
RAKEZ Business Zone FZ
P.O Box 17212, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Tel: +971 7 204 2414
Office B05-314B Business Centre 04
RAKEZ Business Zone FZ
P.O Box 17212, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Tel: +971 7 204 2414
Free Legal Consultation
Secure your legacy through ATB Legal, your ideal partner to safeguard your assets and ensure a prosperous future for your loved ones.