What documents does an Iranian national need to start a construction business in the UAE?

You will need a valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Iran, attested documents via Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and a business plan for your construction venture.

How long does it take for an Iranian citizen to set up a construction company in DIFC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

How long does it take to get a Construction licence in DIFC?

The typical processing time for a construction licence at DIFC is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring Dubai Municipality approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

How much does it cost to set up a Construction business in Dubai International Financial Centre?

The total setup cost for a Construction business in DIFC starts from approximately AED 12,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What are the tax implications for a Construction business in Dubai International Financial Centre?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DIFC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to set up a Construction company in DIFC?

Most of the setup process for a construction business in DIFC can be completed remotely, with documents submitted online or via courier. However, you may need to visit the UAE for Emirates ID biometrics and bank account opening. IBA can coordinate to minimise your required visits.

What documents do I need to set up a Construction business in DIFC?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by Dubai Municipality. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

Construction in Dubai International Financial Centre for Iranian nationals

Free ZoneConstructionRegulated Activity

Construction in DIFC

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Construction

As an Iranian national looking to establish a Construction business in Dubai International Financial Centre, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Iran has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Iranian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Construction business will benefit from independent legal framework (common law) and own courts and arbitration centre. The DIFC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your construction setup in DIFC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DIFC for Construction?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai International Financial Centre continues to attract construction entrepreneurs from around the world.

The jurisdiction offers independent legal framework (common law), which is particularly valuable for construction operations. Additionally, own courts and arbitration centre ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 18,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Premier financial hub further enhances the appeal of DIFC for construction professionals. Furthermore, zero tax for 50 years positions your construction business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIFC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established construction enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For Iranian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Iranian business community.

Independent legal framework (common law)

Own courts and arbitration centre

Premier financial hub

Zero tax for 50 years

Access to regional capital markets

Visa Requirements for Iranian Nationals

Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa. Employment or investor visa is processed through the company after incorporation. Once your construction licence is issued by DIFC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for Iranian Business Owners

Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements. IBA assists with navigating compliance procedures for successful account opening. For your construction business in DIFC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Iranian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Iran-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Iranian Nationals

Iranian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for construction), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DIFC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Iran passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

8Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

Regulatory Note: Construction is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from Dubai Municipality is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	12,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,500
Flexi Desk	18,000
Shared Office	35,000
Private Office	80,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 35,500

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your construction business plan and the best DIFC licence options for Iranian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Iran through Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the construction licence application to DIFC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DIFC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Iranian nationals require a pre-arranged UAE visa.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Iranian entrepreneurs may face additional due diligence requirements.

Start Operations

Your construction business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DIFC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Iranian nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Construction in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750