DIFC Prescribed Companies – Australian Entrepreneurs Expanding to Dubai

You can operate in one of the world’s leading financial centres — the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). For Australian entrepreneurs, investors, and family offices exploring international expansion, the DIFC Prescribed Company setup in Dubai offers a cost-effective and flexible solution for business structuring in the UAE. This legal structure is ideal for holding companies, special purpose vehicles (SPVs), asset protection, and intra-group operations. In this article, we’ll explore how the Dubai business setup for Australian entrepreneurs works, the unique advantages of DIFC Prescribed Companies, and how Flyingcolour® can assist Australians in setting up seamlessly and in full compliance with DIFC regulations.

What is a DIFC Prescribed Company?

A DIFC Prescribed Company is a special purpose company designed for limited business activities. It offers lower setup and maintenance costs compared to other DIFC company types. This structure is ideal for Australian companies, family offices, and investment groups looking to hold assets, manage private wealth, conduct structured finance transactions, or support intra-group operations from a UAE jurisdiction.

Prescribed Companies were introduced to attract global investors, including Australian entrepreneurs and expats, who want a cost-effective, tax-efficient, and legally robust platform in Dubai. These entities operate under the DIFC Prescribed Company Regulations, offering flexibility, confidentiality, and compliance within a recognised international financial centre.

Benefits of DIFC Prescribed Companies for Australian Investors

DIFC Features

 

Cost Effective

Much lower registration and renewal fees for Australian SMEs, family businesses, and holding companies looking to enter Dubai’s DIFC.

Tax Friendly

0% corporate tax on qualifying income and no personal income tax for Australian HNWIs, startups, and investors to manage wealth and international operations.

Secure Asset Protection

DIFC offers a robust legal framework for Australian businesses and families to securely hold intellectual property, overseas investments, or family wealth, away from volatile jurisdictions.

Global Recognition

Operates from the Dubai International Financial Centre, a globally recognized financial centre to build trust with partners and investors.

No Office Space Required

Avoid high rental costs – Prescribed Companies do not require a physical office, making them perfect for Australian businesses expanding internationally with minimal infrastructure.

Versatile

Suitable for multiple purposes, including structured finance transactions, intra-group operations, and asset management for Australian businesses and investors.

Eligibility Criteria for DIFC Prescribed Companies

To establish a Prescribed Company, the applicant must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include:

Qualifying Applicants
  • DIFC-registered entities
  • Entities controlled by GCC nationals
  • Family offices
  • Startups approved by the DIFC Authority
Qualifying Purposes
  • Holding legal titles to GCC-registered assets
  • Structured finance and securitization
  • Family wealth management
  • Supporting intra-group operations
Restricted Activities

Prescribed Companies cannot engage in regulated or retail activities.

DIFC Prescribed Companies (Australia-focused)

 

Asset Holding Hold and manage real estate, intellectual property, or overseas assets under a UAE-based structure for Australian investors and family offices.

 

Structured Finance Support cross-border financing, securitisation, and investment transactions for Australian businesses and investment groups.

 

Family Wealth Management Structure and protect family wealth, succession plans, and estate assets – ideal for Australian high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and expats.

 

Group Support Provide centralised services for Australian conglomerates or startups with multiple entities across jurisdictions.

 

Tech Startups Set up a tax-efficient holding entity for Australian tech ventures looking to attract global funding or scale operations internationally.

Cost of Setting Up a DIFC Prescribed Company

The cost of establishing a DIFC Prescribed Company is significantly lower than standard DIFC entities. Key expenses include:

Application Fee

Paid to the DIFC Registrar of Companies

Annual Fees

Cover ongoing compliance and renewals

Legal & Consultancy Fees

For drafting and submitting required documents

To get an accurate cost estimate

Contact Flying Colour Business Setup Services for a tailored consultation

Why Choose Flying Colour for DIFC Prescribed Company Formation?

At Flying Colour Business Setup Services, we specialize in setting up DIFC Prescribed Companies with efficiency and professionalism.
Here's how we can assist:

Tailored Solutions

Our team provides tailored solutions based on your specific goals.

Tailored Solutions

We design solutions based on your specific needs, ensuring your objectives align with DIFC regulations.

Hassle-Free Process

We handle documentation, application submission, and communication with DIFC authorities on your behalf.

Transparent Pricing

Enjoy competitive and transparent pricing with no hidden charges.

Comprehensive Support

From registration to annual renewals, we provide ongoing support to ensure compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Get in Touch with Flyingcolour Today

Use the flexibility and cost savings of DIFC Prescribed Companies. Contact Flyingcolour® Business Setup Services to simplify your company formation and let us do the heavy lifting for you.