What documents does a British national need to start a recruitment agency business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United Kingdom, attested documents via Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and a business plan for your recruitment agency venture.

How long does it take for a British citizen to set up a recruitment agency company in IFZA?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 2–5 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 12–22 business days.

How long does it take to get a Recruitment Agency licence in IFZA?

The typical processing time for a recruitment agency licence at IFZA is 2 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring MOHRE approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

What business activities can I include on my IFZA licence?

Your IFZA licence can include recruitment agency as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Recruitment Agency business in International Free Zone Authority?

The annual licence renewal for a Recruitment Agency IFZA company costs approximately AED 11,750, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

What are the tax implications for a Recruitment Agency business in International Free Zone Authority?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in IFZA 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my IFZA Recruitment Agency licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from IFZA, 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.

Recruitment Agency in International Free Zone Authority for British nationals

Free ZoneServicesRegulated Activity

Recruitment Agency in IFZA

Starting From

AED 11,750

Setup Time

2 Business Days

Visa Quota

3 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Recruitment Agency

Setting up a Recruitment Agency business in International Free Zone Authority as a British citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United Kingdom-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of British business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at IFZA has been streamlined significantly, with most services licences processed within 2 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 11,750, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your recruitment agency business in International Free Zone Authority. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why IFZA for Recruitment Agency?

International Free Zone Authority is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for services businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers most affordable dubai free zone, which is particularly valuable for recruitment agency operations. Additionally, fast 48-hour setup 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 3,500 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 3 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. 100% foreign ownership further enhances the appeal of IFZA for recruitment agency professionals. Furthermore, no currency restrictions positions your recruitment agency business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, IFZA remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established services enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Most affordable Dubai free zone

Fast 48-hour setup

100% foreign ownership

No currency restrictions

Multiple activities on one licence

Visa Requirements for British Nationals

British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your recruitment agency licence is issued by IFZA, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 7–14 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for British Business Owners

British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. UK-regulated banking history is viewed favourably by UAE banks. For your recruitment agency business in IFZA, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving British business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United Kingdom-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for British Nationals

British nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for recruitment agency), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to IFZA.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United Kingdom passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Signed application form from IFZA authority

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Detailed business plan or activity description

8Professional qualification certificates or approvals from MOHRE

Regulatory Note: Recruitment Agency is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from MOHRE is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	11,750
Visa Package (per visa)	3,500
Flexi Desk	3,500
Shared Office	8,000
Private Office	18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 18,750

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your recruitment agency business plan and the best IFZA licence options for British nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United Kingdom through Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the recruitment agency licence application to IFZA. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official IFZA trade licence within 2–5 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. British nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. British nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 2 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Recruitment Agency 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