Dubai’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) is one of the UAE’s most dynamic free zones, offering a flexible and cost-effective business setup platform for global entrepreneurs and investors. Located in the heart of Dubai, IFZA provides an attractive gateway for businesses to tap into local, regional, and international markets. If you’re considering setting up a company in IFZA, understanding the IFZA activity list and associated licenses is critical. Here’s a complete guide to help you get started.
What is the IFZA Activity List?
The IFZA activity list refers to the various types of business activities that are legally permitted within the free zone. These activities are grouped under different license types such as trading, services, consultancy, and industrial activities. You can select up to three activities under one license without paying additional charges, which offers great flexibility.
Popular Business Activities in IFZA, Dubai
Explore the top IFZA business opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors. Whether you’re launching a consultancy firm or an e-commerce venture, IFZA offers a business-friendly ecosystem, streamlined licensing, and complete ownership benefits.
1. Consultancy Services
Consultancy is one of the most in-demand business activities in IFZA. Entrepreneurs can set up firms specializing in various areas such as:
- Management consulting for strategic planning and process improvement
- IT consulting for digital transformation and cybersecurity solutions
- Finance consulting for investment, accounting, and tax services
- Marketing consulting for brand growth and market entry strategies
With minimal setup costs and flexible licensing options, IFZA makes it easy for consultants to offer services locally and globally.
2. Trading Activities
IFZA’s location in Dubai makes it an ideal hub for trading businesses. You can obtain a General Trading License to import, export, and distribute a wide variety of goods including:
- Electronics and IT products
- Food and beverage items
- Fashion and luxury goods
- Home décor and building materials
IFZA also supports warehousing, logistics, and distribution—making it a strategic base for regional and international trading operations.
3. E-Commerce
IFZA enables entrepreneurs to launch online businesses with ease. Its E-Commerce License allows you to:
- Operate digital storefronts selling physical or digital products
- Offer online services such as consulting, training, or design
- Integrate global payment gateways
- Leverage logistics and warehousing partnerships within Dubai
This is a cost-effective way to tap into the growing UAE and MENA e-commerce markets.
4. Holding Company
Setting up a holding company at IFZA is ideal for investors seeking to manage multiple assets and subsidiaries under one umbrella. A holding company can:
- Own shares in other businesses
- Control intellectual property and patents
- Manage real estate assets
- Reduce tax liabilities and mitigate business risks
This structure provides strong asset protection and financial flexibility, especially for international investors.
5. Media and Marketing
IFZA is an excellent location for launching a creative media or digital marketing firm. License activities include:
- Content creation and video production
- Social media and influencer marketing
- Advertising and brand management
- Public relations and corporate communication
Dubai’s thriving media landscape offers ample opportunity to collaborate with global brands and agencies.
6. IT Services
Tech entrepreneurs and software firms can flourish in IFZA. The free zone supports:
- Software and mobile app development
- Web design and UI/UX services
- IT infrastructure and support services
- Cybersecurity and data protection consulting
IFZA provides an innovation-driven ecosystem with access to skilled tech talent and business networks.
7. Educational and Training Services
IFZA licenses allow the establishment of professional development institutions and training centers offering:
- Corporate and executive training
- Technical certifications
- Language and soft skills courses
- Industry-specific learning programs
Dubai’s multicultural workforce creates constant demand for high-quality education services.
8. Transportation, Distribution, and Supply Chain
Thanks to Dubai’s location and world-class logistics infrastructure, IFZA is a hotspot for companies involved in:
- Freight forwarding
- Third-party logistics (3PL)
- Warehousing and cold storage
- Supply chain optimization and consulting
These services are critical for companies operating in e-commerce, retail, and industrial sectors.
9. Hospitality and Tourism Services
Dubai is a world-renowned tourism destination. IFZA offers licenses for businesses in:
- Travel agencies and tour operations
- Destination management companies (DMCs)
- Event planning and MICE services
- Hotel and hospitality management consulting
Tourism continues to be one of the UAE’s strongest growth sectors, offering vast potential for new ventures.
Facilities Offered by IFZA
Setting up in IFZA goes beyond paperwork—the free zone provides various physical and virtual infrastructure options to support business operations:
- Business Offices: Fully equipped office spaces with modern amenities.
- Smart Desks: Shared workspaces ideal for startups and freelancers.
- Virtual Offices: Includes a Dubai business address, mail handling, and communication services.
- Warehouses: Spacious facilities for storage and logistics purposes.
Types of IFZA Licenses
Each business activity requires an appropriate license. IFZA offers the following:
1. Consultancy License
Ideal for professionals offering specialized advice (e.g., business consultancy, marketing, HR, accounting).
2. General Trading License
Grants the ability to import, export, store, and distribute a wide variety of goods. Ideal for wholesale and e-commerce traders. Specific goods like alcohol or pharmaceuticals require additional permits.
3. Service License
Covers a broad spectrum of activities including IT services, software development, training, marketing services, and more. This license is great for businesses in service-oriented industries.
4. Trade License
Allows companies to buy, sell, and distribute goods both locally and internationally, within the scope defined by the free zone. Offers 100% foreign ownership and duty-free advantages.
IFZA Visa Options
Businesses operating within IFZA can easily sponsor visas for employees and dependents. The visa process is streamlined:
- Fast processing time
- Low administrative burden
- Affordable pricing
Visa packages are available based on your business size, and each license can typically sponsor 1 to 6 visas, depending on your office setup.
Why Choose IFZA?
IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) offers over 800+ business activities, categorized under Professional and Commercial licenses. Key advantages include:
- 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
- Zero corporate and personal tax (on qualifying income)
- Strategic location with access to African, Asian, and European markets
- Affordable licenses for startups, SMEs, and global firms
- Easy business setup and visa processing
Conclusion
The IFZA activity list is vast and diverse, making it an excellent option for entrepreneurs, SMEs, and large corporations looking to establish or expand in Dubai. Whether you’re in trading, tech, consulting, or e-commerce, IFZA offers the flexibility, infrastructure, and support needed to scale your business in the UAE and beyond.
Thinking about setting up a business in IFZA? Let us guide you through the process—from choosing your activity to obtaining your license and visa. The opportunities are endless in Dubai’s most forward-thinking free zone.
Also Read: Qualifying Free Zone Persons (QFZPs) in UAE
FAQs
Is IFZA a good free zone?
Yes, IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) is considered one of the most popular and cost-effective free zones in the UAE, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. Key benefits include:
- Competitive license costs
- Quick company setup (as fast as 2-3 days)
- No physical office requirement for many activities
- Wide range of business activities
- 100% foreign ownership
- Strategic location in Dubai Silicon Oasis
What does IFZA stand for?
IFZA stands for International Free Zone Authority.
It is a Dubai-based free zone offering flexible business setup options for entrepreneurs and companies from around the world.
How much does it cost to set up in IFZA?
The cost to set up a business in IFZA varies based on the number of visa allocations and activity types. As of 2025, here are estimated packages:
- Zero visa license: Starting from AED 12,900
- 1 Visa license: Around AED 14,500 – AED 16,000
- 3 Visa license: Around AED 18,000 – AED 20,000
- Office space or Flexi-desk: Optional add-on
Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on the service provider and promotions.
Are there restricted activities in IFZA?
While IFZA supports a wide range of business activities, certain sensitive operations (e.g., firearms, pharmaceuticals, or financial services) require additional approvals from regulatory bodies.
Can I operate multiple business activities under one license?
Yes! You can include up to three activities under one IFZA license without extra cost. For more than three, additional fees apply.
What does the Design Services license (7410003) allow me to do?
This license allows you to create preliminary sketches and design plans for various objects, such as interior spaces, gardens, and water basins. Execution of these designs must be carried out by specialized contractors.
Can I offer interior and landscape design under Activity Code 7410003?
Yes, interior design, garden, and basin design are included in this activity.
Is Activity Code 7410003 a Service or Trading license?
This is a Service license.
What does the E-Trading license for garments and textiles (4791002) include?
It covers selling garments, textiles, and gifts online without direct human interaction. Sales are processed via internet platforms using secure online payment systems.
Can I operate an online store or sell on platforms like Amazon or Noon under Activity Code 4791002?
Yes, this activity allows you to sell through your own website or on third-party platforms.
Is Activity Code 4791002 a Service or Trade license?
This is a Trade license.
What services can I offer under the Management Consultancy license (7020003)?
You can offer administrative and strategic consulting, process improvement, internal policy development, organizational restructuring, and business performance analysis.
What are the qualification requirements for Activity Code 7020003?
A Bachelor’s degree in Business or Economics and at least 3 years of hands-on experience are required.
Can I conduct surveys and field research with this license?
Not without prior approval from the competent authority.
Is Activity Code 7020003 a Service or Trade license?
This is a Service license.
What does the Marketing Research & Consultancies license (7320001) cover?
It includes providing market research, competitor analysis, customer behavior studies, and marketing strategy development to help businesses grow.
Are there educational and experience requirements for Activity Code 7320001?
Yes, you must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or Economics and have 3 years of relevant experience.
Can I help businesses plan marketing strategies under this activity?
Yes, strategic marketing guidance is a key part of this license.
Is Activity Code 7320001 a Service or Trade license?
This is a Service license.
What services are included under the Marketing via Social Media license (6202101)?
You can offer digital marketing services through social media, including ad campaign management, audience targeting, customer engagement, and content promotion.
Can I manage Facebook and Instagram ads for clients under Activity Code 6202101?
Yes, you are authorized to run paid campaigns across all social media platforms.
Is Activity Code 6202101 suitable for a digital marketing agency?
Absolutely. This license is ideal for social media marketing and online promotions.
Is Activity Code 6202101 a Service or Trade license?
This is a Service license.
