ABOUT DIFC

DIFC is an onshore financial centre strategically located between the east and west, which provides a secure and efficient platform for business and financial institutions to reach into and out of the emerging markets of the region. The quality and range of DIFCs independent regulation, common law framework, supportive infrastructure and its tax-friendly regime make it the perfect base to take advantage of the regions rapidly growing demand for financial and business services.

DIFC fills the time-zone gap for a global financial centre between the leading financial centres of London and New York in the west and Hong Kong and Tokyo in the east. Guided by its core values of integrity, transparency and efficiency, DIFC is playing a pivotal role in meeting the growing financial needs of the region.

At the heart of the DIFC model is an independent risk-based regulator, the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), which grants licenses and regulates the activities of all banking and financial institutions in DIFC. The regulatory body was created using principle-based primary legislation modelled closely on that used in London and New York. The DFSA has played a major role in providing financial companies the confidence that they have a sound, stable, secure and growth-oriented platform for their business.

DIFC is unique in that it has a legislative system consistent with English Common law. Given its construct, DIFC has its own set of civil and commercial laws and regulations and has developed a complete code of law governing financial services regulation. As part of its autonomy, DIFC has created an independent judicial system. The DIFC Courts is the entity responsible for the independent administration and enforcement of justice in DIFC. The Courts have exclusive jurisdiction over all civil and commercial disputes arising within DIFC and or relating to bodies and companies registered in DIFC.

Platform to access regional wealth and investment opportunities
100 percent foreign ownership
Zero percent tax rate on income and profits (guaranteed for a period of 50 years)
A wide network of double taxation treaties available to UAE incorporated entities
No exchange controls (free capital convertibility)
High standards of laws, rules and regulations
International legal system based on Common Law of England & Wales
A wholly transparent operating environment, complying with global best practices, and internationally accepted laws and regulatory processes
A variety of legal vehicles that can be established with capital structuring flexibility
Access to a large pool of skilled professionals residing in Dubai and the region
A modern transport, communications and internet infrastructure
A responsive one-stop shop service for visas, work permits and other related requirements
An independent common law judicial system

DIFC has been designed as a city within a city that provides a complete range of business and lifestyle facilities for todays professionals.
The infrastructure within the financial district features:

Ultra-modern office space
Retail outlets
Restaurants
Art galleries
Residential apartments
Hotels