Passenger Transport in DIFC
Starting From
AED 12,000
Setup Time
5 Business Days
Visa Quota
6 Visas
Location
Dubai
About Passenger Transport
The UAE's thriving economy continues to attract investors from around the world, and Dubai International Financial Centre stands out as a premier destination for Passenger Transport businesses.
As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Passenger Transport 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 passenger transport 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 Passenger Transport?
There are several compelling reasons why Dubai International Financial Centre continues to attract passenger transport entrepreneurs from around the world.
The jurisdiction offers independent legal framework (common law), which is particularly valuable for passenger transport 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 passenger transport professionals. Furthermore, zero tax for 50 years positions your passenger transport 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 transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.
Requirements & Documents
Regulatory Note: Passenger Transport is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RTA 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
Initial Consultation
Begin with a free consultation with IBA's business setup advisors to discuss your passenger transport business objectives, optimal licence structure, and DIFC as your chosen jurisdiction. We assess your specific requirements and provide a transparent cost breakdown.
Choose Your Company Name
Select your company name and submit it for approval. DIFC has specific naming guidelines — the name must not conflict with existing registrations and should reflect your business activity. IBA handles the name reservation process.
Prepare & Submit Documents
Compile all required documentation including passport copies, photographs, and the completed application form. For passenger transport, additional documents including professional qualifications and RTA approvals are required. IBA prepares and submits all paperwork on your behalf.
Obtain Trade Licence
Your DIFC trade licence is issued within 5 business days of document submission. The licence authorises you to conduct passenger transport activities and is valid for one year. The licence fee is approximately AED 12,000.
Apply for Residence Visa
Once your licence is active, apply for your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Your DIFC licence includes 6 visa allocation. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,500. IBA manages the entire visa process including medical testing and Emirates ID.
Open Corporate Bank Account
With your trade licence in hand, open a corporate bank account at a UAE bank. IBA provides introductions to relationship managers at leading banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. We prepare a comprehensive banking file to ensure smooth account approval.
Start Operations
With your licence issued, visa processed, and bank account active, your passenger transport business in Dubai International Financial Centre is ready to operate. IBA continues to support you with PRO services, VAT registration, accounting, and annual licence renewals.
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, with a valid trade licence from DIFC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.
Passenger Transport in Other Jurisdictions
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Official Source
www.difc.ae ↗Popular in DIFC
By IBA Business Setup Team
Last updated: 26 February 2026
International Business Advisors DMCC has been helping entrepreneurs set up businesses in the UAE since 2004, with 20+ years of hands-on expertise.
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Get a personalised quote for setting up your passenger transport in DIFC. Our advisors are ready to guide you through every step.