Introduction
Looking for business freedom in Dubai? IFZA (International Free Zone Authority) offers unmatched flexibility. In 2025, IFZA lets you combine up to 50+ business activities under one license. That means you can shift, expand, and diversify easily. This guide explains which business types are permitted, which license fits, how approvals work, and why IFZA leads the pack among Dubai free zones. At the end of the blog, you’ll have a clear mindset to pick the right activity from the Ifza activity list!
What is the IFZA Business Activity List?
IFZA categorizes business activities into Professional and Commercial license types. It covers over 800 permitted activities. Consultancy to trading, media to logistics are a few of them. You can mix up to three activities on one license at no extra cost, saving time and money.
Top Permitted Activities in IFZA
Here’s a snapshot of the most common activity categories in IFZA for 2025:
Commercial/Trading Activities
Under commercial activities, you are permitted to do general trading. You can sell many products under one license. You are also permitted to carry out import & export services. Run your E‑Commerce business, online retail, without a warehouse.
Service & Consulting
In services and consultation, you can offer Management, HR, Finance, and IT Consultation. This also includes Marketing & Digital Marketing and Professional Services like accounting and legal services.
Technology & Creative
Under this niche, you provide software, cybersecurity, and AI solutions. You can also carry out Digital content creation, media production, and advertising activities.
Logistics & Warehousing
The logistics and warehouse include freight forwarding, distribution, supply chain, and operations.
Education, Training & Events
In education and training events, you are allowed to do corporate training, language schools, and professional workshops. As an employer, you can also provide event planning and management services
Healthcare, Real Estate, Tourism
This may include clinics, wellness centers, property leasing, or brokerage services. You can open your travel agency, work as a tour operator, and offer hospitality services.
Niche & Emerging Areas
Under this niche, you are permitted to give financial services, including insurance, investment tech, and blockchain. The craftsmanship, agriculture, pet care, VR experiences, and subscription models may also be carried out.
License Types & Activity Match
Below is a table to clarify which IFZA license matches which business activity:
| License Type | Use Cases / Activities |
| General Trading License | Trading goods, e‑commerce, import/export |
| Service/Professional | Consulting, marketing, accounting, legal, and HR services |
| Industrial License | Manufacturing, assembly, and processing in light industry |
| Media License | Broadcasting, production, digital content |
| Real Estate License | Property sales, leasing, development |
| Freelance Permit | Individual consultants, writers, designers, small services |
You can mix professional and commercial activities, and even more, fields if you pay extra. Choose wisely from the Ifza activity list that guarantees you business success.
Why IFZA Stands Out in 2025
Some reasons that make the IFZA unique from other free zones. We’ve discussed this in detail. Let’s find out what those are.
Flexibility & Cost Efficiency
You can list up to three activities under one license at no additional fee. With 800+ options, you can pivot easily without licensing hassles.
100% Foreign Ownership, Interesting Licensing Costs
IFZA avoids needing a local sponsor. Companies enjoy zero income and corporate tax on qualifying income and full profit repatriation. Licenses start from around AED 9,000.
Strategic Location
Located in Dubai, IFZA provides easy access to markets across Asia, Africa, and Europe. It includes warehousing options and virtual offices.
Quick Setup & Easy Amendments
No long wait. You can add or change activities digitally. You can expand your business without needing a new license.
Regulated vs Non‑Regulated Activities
IFZA separates activities into:
- Green (Non-Regulated) – No extra approvals needed.
- Amber (Regulated) – Requires approvals from Dubai or federal entities (e.g., healthcare, food, finance). Approx. 800+ Green and Amber activities mix.
If your business is regulated, be ready to secure additional permits and document compliance.
Real Insights from Entrepreneurs
From Reddit users:
“IFZA is used a lot for E‑commerce, from what I know.” It suits online sellers well.
“IFZA seems to be easier to get up and running compared to Meydan. The banking support is better for those two free zones.”Good recognition from users.
One owner shared:
“You don’t need to update your employment contracts… Also, no WPS in IFZA. So you’re not required to use it.” This indicates streamlined admin.
How to Pick Your Activities Wisely
Stuck badly? No direction on which activity to pick from the IFZA free zone activity list that performs well? We’ll help you choose wisely!
1. Identify Your Core Business
Choose up to three main activities to include under one license.
Example: E‑commerce + consulting + digital marketing.
2. Think Scalability
Want to expand later? IFZA lets you add a fourth activity for a fee. You avoid starting over.
3. Check for Approvals
If you offer finance, healthcare, or food-related services, review the “amber” classification and plan approvals.
4. Select Right License
Choose license type after matching activity: trading, service, media, industrial, freelance.
5. Confirm Property Needs
Some activities require office or warehouse space. Virtual or flexi-desk may cover small service roles.
Additional Facilities & Support
- Smart Desk / Virtual Office – Get a business address, mail handling, and communication setup. Good for solo founders.
- Warehousing – IFZA includes storage space for trading operations or e‑commerce logistics.
- Health Insurance Plans – IFZA offers group medical policies through IFZA Life.
Key Compliance Notes
Take notice of the following things that are important:
- Corporate Tax Filing – Free zone companies still need to register for corporate tax even if profit stays below AED 375,000.
- Financial Reporting & AML – Maintain audited statements and anti-money‑laundering policies.
- Activity Amendments – You can update or change activities digitally.
- Visa Rules – Each license type supports 1–6 visas, depending on the office package.
Summary Table: Activity Choices & Licensing
| Business Type | Recommended License | Typical Activities | Notes |
| Online Retail or Trading | General Trading | E‑commerce, import-export, dropshipping | The virtual office option works well |
| Consultancy or Service Work | Professional/Service | IT, marketing, finance, HR consulting | Can use a Freelance permit too |
| Tech & Digital | Service / Media | Software dev, AI, cybersecurity, media services | Check for approvals if needed |
| Events, Education, Training | Service | Workshops, coaching, event planning | Some courses require KHDA approval |
| Logistics / SCM | Commercial + Warehousing | Storage, freight forwarding, distribution | Needs physical space if large-scale |
| Financial or Investment Firms | Service / Financial | Wealth management, insurance, crypto services | Requires regulatory compliance |
Final Thoughts
IFZA offers one of the most flexible, cost-effective free zone setups in Dubai in 2025. With 800+ permitted activities, easy adjustments, and strong financial perks, it’s ideal for startups and evolving firms alike.
Stick with licensed activities. Choose a fitting license and plan for compliance. Embrace IFZA’s flexible mix of commercial and professional capabilities to build your venture smartly and confidently.
Want help picking activity codes or license types based on what you do? Just ask Connect Free Zone, we are ready to help you at any hour of the day. Get instant support on choosing the right IFZA activity from the IFZA activity list, based on your goals and preferences.
Kane BernardHe is a dynamic Enterprise Development Manager with a proven track record in driving business growth and innovation. With a strategic mindset and a passion for fostering enterprise success, he excels in identifying new market opportunities, developing strategic partnerships, and enhancing operational efficiencies. His expertise includes market analysis, business planning, and project management, enabling her to guide enterprises through complex development stages.
