Special Purpose Vehicles (Prescribed Companies) and other Company Structures.
Explore DIFC’s secure, flexible and tax-efficient environment.
Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), also known in DIFC as Prescribed Companies, are passive holding companies established to ring-fence and isolate assets and liabilities from financial and legal risk. DIFC offers a robust legal and regulatory framework, making it the ideal jurisdiction for SPV formation. Whether you are focusing on investment, securitisation, or asset holding, DIFC provides a secure and tax-efficient environment for setting up an SPV.
DIFC offers a range of low-cost, flexible, and quick-to-set-up company structures designed to meet your business needs. With an Application Fee of USD 100 (one-time payment) and an annual commercial licence fee of USD 1,000, DIFC provides an affordable choice for businesses looking to establish an SPV or expand their operations.
The two primary types of company structures available are:
- Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs): These are designed to ring-fence and isolate assets and liabilities, protecting them from financial and legal risks. SPVs are available to qualifying applicants for a range of qualified purposes. SPVs are typically used as passive holding companies to protect assets, and they cannot conduct any commercial or operational activities, nor can they hire employees. SPVs are considered as private companies under the DIFC Companies Law.
- Active Enterprise Structure: The Active Enterprise structure provides a comprehensive commercial package for managing your business, including holding companies, managing offices, and proprietary investments. It also allows you to employ staff within DIFC, provided you maintain an office in the Centre.
Why set up an SPV in DIFC?
Tax Efficiency
Globally competitive and attractive tax regime.
Legal Framework
DIFCs common law system ensures a secure foundation for your SPV structure, enhancing the legal protection of your SPV company.
Access to Global Markets
DIFC provides access to key global markets, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Flexibility and Support
An SPV can have its own DIFC office space, co-working desk, share office space with its DIFC affiliate, or use an appointed DIFC corporate service provider.
Cost-Effective Structure
Enjoy competitive pricing and transparent fees for establishing your SPV in DIFC, ensuring clarity throughout the process.
2 easy steps to start setting up your business
Step one.
Apply for initial approval.To apply for initial approval, you will need to contact our team in order to access your online portal. In line with our ESG commitments, this process will be 100 per cent online.
Step two.
Submit requirements.Once Initial Approval application is submitted you may proceed with filling out the Register with DIFC application to speed up your on boarding process. However, please note that you can only submit it after the Initial Approval has been granted.
