IFZA graphic comparing a shelf company with starting a new company

The reputation that comes with buying an old company often exceeds its acquisition cost.

  • An aged company signals trust worthiness, which is something that registering a completely new cannot match.

Setting up a new company generally cost less than Purchasing a shelf company that has incorporated for a number of years, but the trust that customers and suppliers gain when interacting with an established company is priceless

Our business acquisition team will help you understand the full acquisition cost, allowing you make an informed decision on whether buying an existing IFZA company in Dubai, is a better than registering a new company license with IFZA or Dubai DED.

Streamlined Setup and Quicker Market Entry

A significant benefit is avoiding the prolonged initial processes associated with new company formation.

This means less waiting for approvals and more time spent on revenue-generating activities.

Begin signing contracts with suppliers and customers the moment the company has been transferred to your name.

If acceptable to external stakeholders, and agreed by the current company owner, it is even possible to enter into agreement, before the share transfers have taken place.

Easier Bank Account Opening Process

An existing company often has a banking history, which can aid in faster bank account opening approvals.

Having an existing bank account is usually beneficial opening an additional account at another bank.

New entities often face delays and stringent requirements when opening corporate bank accounts.

Our team will guide you through this process, leveraging the existing entity’s banking reputation to quickly open a new bank account after the company shares have been transferred, allowing you to operate with a peace of mind.

The ease of opening a bank account after purchasing an existing IFZA license is a key advantage of buying a shelf company.

Attempting to acquire an existing company without expert legal guidance can lead to significant complications.

You risk encountering undisclosed debts, unresolved disputes, or non-compliant operational history.

These issues can severely impact your business’s future and incur unexpected costs.

Mitigating Risks with Professional Oversight

BUH Consulting mitigates these risks through proactive identification and resolution of potential problems.

  • We conduct thorough background checks and verify all legal standings and compliance records.
  • Our hands-on support means you avoid overlooking critical details that could jeopardize your investment.
  • We safeguard your interests, preventing costly future complications.

Speed and Efficiency in Transaction

Our partnership with IFZA and understanding of local regulations helps to expedite the company transfer process.

Focus your time on capitalizing on opportunities instead of being dragged down with administrative tasks.

BUH Consulting will assist with Every aspect of purchasing a company in IFZA, from company selection, due diligence to share transfer.

The only hands on part for the buyer is to sign the share transfer process, which can be completed online without visiting IFZA headquarters in person.

IFZA purchase infographic showing company search, review, valuation, negotiation and transfer

Frequently Asked Questions: Buying an IFZA Business License in Dubai

How much does it cost to buy an IFZA shelf company or license in Dubai?

An existing IFZA company typically costs between AED 18,000 to AED 45,000, depending on company age, visa allocations, and whether active banking is attached. Official IFZA registry share transfer and amendment fees range from AED 3,500 to AED 5,500.

Can I complete an IFZA share transfer remotely without visiting Dubai?

Yes. IFZA provides a 100% digital onboarding system. Foreign buyers can execute the share transfer, sign digital resolutions, and receive the reissued digital trade license remotely without flying to Dubai.

How fast can an IFZA company transfer be finalized?

IFZA offers one of the fastest transfer turnarounds in Dubai. Once shareholder KYC documents and signed share transfer agreements are submitted, the official license amendment is typically completed in 3 to 5 business days.

Can multiple business activities be combined under one IFZA license?

Yes. IFZA permits combining up to 7 commercial, professional, and consulting activities under a single trade license without requiring separate entity registrations.

Does buying an IFZA company provide immediate UAE residency visas?

Yes. Once the license reflects the new shareholder, the owner can immediately apply for 2-year renewable UAE investor or partner residency visas, followed by Emirates ID and medical fitness processing.

Can an IFZA shelf company hold an active corporate bank account?

Yes. Pre-banked IFZA companies maintain accounts with UAE financial institutions like Emirates NBD, Mashreq, or Wio Bank. Transferring the existing corporate account eliminates traditional new-account opening delays.

What physical office requirements apply to IFZA licenses?

IFZA does not mandate leasing expensive physical real estate. Companies operate legally using dedicated or shared flexi-desk facilities provided through the IFZA Business Park in Dubai Silicon Oasis.

Is an annual financial audit mandatory for IFZA companies?

Currently, IFZA does not mandate the annual submission of audited financial statements for standard license renewals, reducing annual administrative overhead for small-to-medium enterprises and international holding entities.

Can an acquired IFZA company open branch offices on the UAE mainland?

Yes. An acquired IFZA entity can establish a mainland branch registered with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), enabling physical retail and direct mainland B2C operations.

What documents are required from a foreign buyer to acquire an IFZA company?

The buyer must provide: 1) Valid passport copy; 2) Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement within 3 months); 3) High-resolution passport photo; and 4) A brief professional profile / CV.

2025 © BUH Consulting | Privacy Policy