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Overview
DIFC Foundation
DIFC Prescribed Company
Operating in one of the world’s top financial hubs is a reality with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Among the various legal structures available, the DIFC Prescribed Company is the best option for Indian entrepreneurs, family offices and corporate entities looking for a cost efficient and flexible setup in the UAE. This is ideal for holding companies, special purpose vehicles (SPVs) and intra-group operations. In this article we will look at the benefits of DIFC Prescribed Companies, eligibility for Indian residents and NRIs and how Flyingcolour Business Setup India Team can help you set up your DIFC Prescribed Company smoothly and compliantly.
A DIFC Prescribed Company is a special purpose company for limited purpose business activities. It has lower setup and maintenance costs than other DIFC company types. This is suitable for Indian companies, family offices and investment groups who want to hold assets, manage private wealth, do structured finance transactions, or support intra-group operations from a UAE jurisdiction.
Prescribed Companies were introduced to attract global investors, including Indian entrepreneurs and NRIs, who want a cost effective, tax efficient and legally robust platform in Dubai. These entities operate under the DIFC Prescribed Company Regulations, for flexibility, confidentiality and compliance in a recognized international financial centre.
Much lower registration and renewal fees for Indian SMEs, family businesses and holding companies looking to enter Dubai’s DIFC.
0% corporate tax on qualifying income and no personal income tax for Indian HNIs, startups and NRI investors to manage wealth and international operations.
DIFC has a robust legal framework to hold intellectual property, overseas investments or family wealth safely away from volatile jurisdictions.
Operates from the Dubai International Financial Centre, a globally recognized financial centre to build trust with partners and investors.
Avoid high rental costs—Prescribed Companies do not need a physical office, perfect for Indian businesses expanding internationally with minimal infrastructure.
Suitable for various purposes, including structured finance, intra-group operations, and asset management.
To establish a Prescribed Company, the applicant must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include:
Prescribed Companies cannot engage in regulated or retail activities.
Setting up a DIFC Prescribed Company is a process. Here's a step by step guide for Indian entrepreneurs and businesses:
Start with a consultation to check your eligibility as per DIFC regulations. Our experts will align your business objectives—whether it's NRI wealth structuring, holding foreign assets, or Indian startup expansion—with DIFC's framework.
We will help you prepare: Articles of Association (AOA), DIFC application forms, passport copies and corporate documents, supporting documents like business rationale or group structure explanation.
Submit your complete application to the DIFC Registrar of Companies, make sure all compliance checks are met to avoid delays.
DIFC will review your: Legal structure, business purpose (non-retail, non-regulated), ownership (must meet qualifying applicant status). Once approved you will move to the final registration stage.
After approval your Prescribed Company is registered and your license is issued. At this stage you can start operating from a global financial centre without the need of a physical office.
Asset Holding Hold and manage real estate, IP or overseas assets under a UAE based structure.
Structured Finance Support cross border financing, securitization and investment transactions for Indian businesses and investors.
Family Wealth Management Structure and protect family wealth, succession plans and estate assets—ideal for Indian HNIs and NRIs.
Group Support Centralized services for Indian conglomerates or startups with multiple entities across jurisdictions.
Tech Startups Set up a tax efficient holding entity for Indian tech ventures looking to attract global funding or scale up.
The cost of establishing a DIFC Prescribed Company is significantly lower than standard DIFC entities. Key expenses include:
Paid to the DIFC Registrar of Companies
Cover ongoing compliance and renewals
For drafting and submitting required documents
Contact Flying Colour Business Setup Services for a tailored consultation
At Flying Colour Business Setup Services, we specialize in setting up DIFC Prescribed Companies with efficiency and professionalism. Here's how we can assist:
Our team provides tailored solutions based on your specific goals.
We design solutions based on your specific needs, ensuring your objectives align with DIFC regulations.
We handle documentation, application submission, and communication with DIFC authorities on your behalf.
Enjoy competitive and transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
From registration to annual renewals, we provide ongoing support to ensure compliance.
No, Prescribed Companies cannot operate or trade. They are only for asset holding, structured finance or group support.
0% corporate tax and no personal income tax on qualifying income.
No, a physical office is not required. This reduces the overall setup and operational costs.
2 to 4 weeks depending on the nature of business and document readiness.
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.