Crypto
Jul 7, 2025
Obtaining a license in Dubai’s International Financial Centre is a crucial step for businesses operating in the UAE's Crypto sector. However, the DIFC license cost can be a barrier to entry for some startups and companies looking to expand to the UAE. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the costs involved in securing a DIFC license. This way, you’ll be able to plan for this expense and achieve your business goals without unexpected financial hurdles.
Ape Law’s web3 legal experts can provide expert legal solutions to your DIFC licensing needs. From business setup to compliance, our team has the experience to support your venture in the UAE Crypto sector.
Table of Contents
Who Needs a DIFC License
Operating a business in the Dubai International Financial Centre has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the first considerations for setting up shop in the DIFC is whether your business needs a license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). If your company is focused on financial services, a DFSA license is required. If your business is primarily focused on non-financial services, a DFSA license is not required; however, your business will still need to register with the DIFC and comply with its regulations. Let’s take a closer look at the types of companies that require a DIFC license.
Financial Companies: Structured to Serve Global Markets
The DFSA must license your business if it is intended to operate in the areas of banking, investment management, or capital markets. Financial licenses are further divided into specific categories based on varying risk levels and services offered:
Category 1: Banks and credit institutions that offer loans and take deposits.
Category 2: Principal dealers in investment instruments or funds.
Category 3A-3C: Asset managers, advisory firms, and brokers.
Category 4: Firms conducting financial advisory or arranging services only.
Each license has capital adequacy requirements, risk frameworks, and regulatory reporting obligations that Davidson & Co. helps clients prepare for and maintain.
Non-Financial Businesses: A Growing DIFC Segment
Many of the multinational companies housed within the DIFC are engaged in non-financial activities and take advantage of the globally recognized legal environment, tax benefits, and thriving ecosystem that the DIFC offers. They do not require a DFSA license but must still register with the Registrar of Companies and comply with DIFC regulations.
Examples of non-financial companies commonly established in DIFC
Professional Services Firms: Law, consultancy, accountancy, audit, and HR advisory firms.
Tech Companies: Especially FinTechs under the DIFC Innovation Hub umbrella.
Family Offices and Wealth Holding Entities: Taking advantage of structures like Foundations and Prescribed Companies.
Retail, Hospitality, and Lifestyle Brands: High-end boutiques, restaurants, and galleries operating inside the DIFC district.
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Benefits of DIFC License
DIFC License Benefits: A Strong Legal System
DIFC boasts a robust legal framework modeled on English common law. This independent judicial system enables the swift and impartial resolution of financial disputes, with specialized courts handling all legal matters within their jurisdiction. For instance, in the Dubai World insolvency case that began in 2009, a dedicated DIFC tribunal managed the creditor proceedings, demonstrating impartial enforcement even against state-backed entities.
DIFC License Benefits: 100% Foreign Ownership
A license from DIFC comes with many perks, including the ability for global firms to set up operations in Dubai without a local partner. This means foreign investors can fully own their businesses and enjoy complete operational control. For example, global banks such as JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, and Bloomberg maintain full-fledged regional operations here.
DIFC License Benefits: Tax Advantages
The DIFC offers significant tax benefits, including a 0% corporate and personal income tax rate for 50 years (guaranteed). There are also no restrictions on moving profits or capital out of the UAE.
DIFC License Benefits: Access to Global Markets
DIFC connects businesses to fast-growing markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Over 2,500 companies already operate here, including major banks and financial firms. The FinTech Hive and Innovation Hub hosts over 600 tech firms, serving markets across the MENA and South Asia regions.
DIFC License Benefits: Modern Infrastructure
DIFC boasts state-of-the-art offices and facilities. The ecosystem offers a supportive environment for fintech and innovation. Astra Tech established its strategic base at the DIFC Innovation Hub in mid-2024, powering its digital services super app across the MENA region.
DIFC License Benefits: Simple Business Setup
Setting up operations in DIFC is straightforward. There is a faster licensing and approval process compared to other locations. The free zone also allows flexible office options, including virtual offices. Courts allow opt-in disputes regarding jurisdiction even after the contract, providing a streamlined, English-language resolution.
Setting up a crypto business in the UAE can be complex, but Ape Law makes it smooth. As Web3-native legal experts, we handle crypto licensing, business structuring, and compliance so you can focus on growth. Whether you’re launching a new coin, token, and/or NFT, expanding operations, or optimizing for tax efficiency, our team ensures a smooth and legally sound setup. Ready to establish your business in the UAE? Book a free consultation today to navigate the legalities of setting up a Web3 business in the UAE with ease!
DIFC License Cost Breakdown
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is among the world's top ten financial centers, thanks to its robust infrastructure and multitude of business support services. The economic hub is home to over 4,000 companies, including some of the biggest names in finance and insurance. Setting up a business here can cost between AED 65,000 and AED 100,000 in the first year. Here's a breakdown of the DIFC license costs:
1. DIFC Standard Company Setup Costs (Non-Regulated)
Company Registration Fee: AED 29,000 – AED 44,000 (one-time)
Annual Commercial License Fee: AED 14,700 – AED 18,000 (per year)
Office Rent
Co-working desk: AED 18,000 – AED 30,000 per year
Private office: AED 60,000 – AED 150,000+ per year (depending on size and location)
Visa Costs (per employee)
Establishment Card: AED 1,800 – AED 2,000
Employment Visa: AED 3,500 – AED 5,000
Medical & Emirates ID: AED 1,500 – AED 2,000
Estimated Total for Year 1 (non-regulated firm)
AED 65,000 – AED 100,000+, depending on office type and number of visas.
2. DIFC Regulated Firms (DFSA-Supervised)
For financial services firms regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), additional costs apply:
Application Processing Fee: AED 55,000+
Annual License Fee: AED 55,000+
Company Registration (ROC): AED 29,000 – AED 44,000
Capital Requirements (varies by category)
Category 4 (FinTech): AED 550,000
Category 3C (Venture Capital): AED 255,000
Category 3D (Payment Service Provider): AED 735,000+
Office Space (physical required): from AED 75,000 – AED 200,000/year
Professional Fees (consulting/legal): AED 40,000 – AED 100,000 (setup phase)
Estimated Total for Year 1 (regulated firm)
AED 250,000 – AED 900,000+, depending on license type and capital requirements.
3. DIFC Innovation / Startup License
Designed for early-stage tech, FinTech, AI, and digital firms.
License Fee: AED 5,500/year (discounted rate for first 2 years)
Registration Fee: AED 370 – AED 1,000 (one-time)
Co-working Space: AED 18,000 – AED 30,000/year (includes up to 4 visas)
Visa Costs
Establishment Card: AED 1,800 – AED 2,000
Visa & Medical: AED 4,500 – AED 6,000 per person
Estimated Total for Year 1 (Innovation License)
AED 30,000 – AED 50,000, depending on the number of employees.
Optional and Recurring Fees
Amendments to Structure/Name: AED 1,500 – AED 5,000
Document Certification/Attestation: AED 300 – AED 2,000
Court Fees (if applicable): Varies based on the type of service
Compliance/AML Officer (for regulated firms): AED 100,000 – AED 200,000/year (if outsourced)
How to Get a DIFC License in 7 Steps
1. Tap Into Ape Law For Hassle-Free DIFC Licensing
Setting up a crypto business in the UAE can be complex, but Ape Law makes it smooth. As Web3-native legal experts, we handle crypto licensing, business structuring, and compliance so you can focus on growth. Whether you’re launching a new coin, token, and/or NFT, expanding operations, or optimizing for tax efficiency, our team ensures a smooth and legally sound setup. Ready to establish your business in the UAE? Book a free consultation today to navigate the legalities of setting up a Web3 business in the UAE with ease!
2. Choose the Right Business Activity for Your DIFC License
The first step is to determine the type of business activity and identify the required license. There is a range of licenses; you will need to choose the one that best suits your needs.
3. Consult With DIFC’s Business Development Team
It is advisable to consult with the DIFC’s business development team. They will help and guide you to understand the requirements. They analyze whether your business aligns with DIFC regulations.
4. Prepare and Submit Your DIFC License Documents
Depending on the type of business structure, you will have to submit the documents. Check out the list of documents section. Once they are ready, apply through the DIFC Client Portal for review.
5. Meet Regulatory Requirements for Financial Entities
A regulatory approval from the DFSA is required if you are setting up a financial entity.
6. Secure Office Space to Get Your DIFC License
Having a physical office space is mandatory. Register an office in a DIFC commercial space or co-working space.
7. Final Approval and License Issuance
Once the office space and regulatory approvals are completed, you will receive the final approval. The DIFC license will be issued after final approvals.
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Book a Free Consultation to Navigate the Legalities of Setting up a Web3 Business in the UAE
Setting up a crypto business in the UAE can be complex, but Ape Law makes it smooth. As Web3-native legal experts, we handle crypto licensing, business structuring, and compliance so you can focus on growth. Whether you’re launching a new coin, token, and/or NFT, expanding operations, or optimizing for tax efficiency, our team ensures a smooth and legally sound setup. Ready to establish your business in the UAE? Book a free consultation today to navigate the legalities of setting up a Web3 business in the UAE with ease!
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