If you’re looking to build a business in a niche yet thriving market, the Dubai Flower Centre (DFC) presents one of the most attractive opportunities in the UAE. As an advanced logistics hub specifically designed for flower and perishable goods trade, DFC offers world-class infrastructure, simplified regulations, and a strategic location that connects Asia, Europe, and Africa. Setting up a business in Dubai Flower Centre doesn’t just mean entering the flower market; it means becoming a part of a larger ecosystem of global trade and specialized logistics.
What is the Dubai Flower Centre (DFC)?
The Dubai Flower Centre is a purpose-built free zone facility within the Dubai International Airport that supports the import, export, and re-export of flowers and perishable items. This is crucial in flower and perishable businesses where timing is everything. Businesses operating from the Dubai Flower Centre enjoy full foreign ownership, repatriation of profits, and tax benefits, making it a hotspot for global traders, exporters, wholesalers, and even new entrepreneurs.
Why Start a Business at Dubai Flower Centre in 2025?
Choosing to start a business in DFC comes with several unique advantages. Firstly, the demand for fresh flowers and plants continues to grow in the UAE and the wider GCC region. Events, weddings, hotels, and lifestyle trends are driving consistent demand across seasons. You’ll find specialized facilities such as cold-chain storage, bonded warehouses, and handling systems designed for delicate goods.
As a designated free zone, DFC also provides businesses with several benefits:
- You get 100% ownership of your company, whether you are a solo entrepreneur or a foreign investor.
- There are no import or export duties within the free zone, which enhances profit margins.
- Paperwork is significantly simplified compared to mainland company formation, speeding up your business launch.
In short, DFC is ideal for anyone wanting to operate in the flower, perishable, or logistics sectors in a future-ready facility.
Types of Businesses You Can Start at DFC
The Dubai Flower Centre isn’t limited to just florists. It caters to a broad range of businesses related to the floral and perishables supply chain. For example, you could establish a flower import/export business, acting as a wholesale distributor to retail outlets and event planners. You can also consider setting up a business that sells floral packaging, vases, and decorative supplies. Retailers and online flower delivery businesses operating out of DFC can benefit from fast shipping and direct access to global suppliers. So whether you’re in trade, logistics, or support services, DFC has a business model to suit your goals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Business in Dubai Flower Centre
Starting a business at DFC follows a structured and efficient process. The first step is to identify the exact business activity you want to undertake, whether it’s trading, logistics, or service-based. Based on this, you’ll choose a suitable legal structure. The most common ones are:
| Type | Ownership | Legal Identity | Ideal For |
| FZE | 1 shareholder | Yes | Solo entrepreneurs or single firms |
| FZC | 2+ shareholders | Yes | Partnerships and joint ventures |
| Branch Office | Parent company | No | Expanding existing businesses |
Once your structure is chosen, you’ll need to reserve your trade name and submit a business license application to the DFC authority. After that, you can lease office or warehouse space depending on your operational needs. The setup also includes submitting identification documents, company forms, and approval paperwork. After receiving your license, you’ll be able to apply for visas and begin operations legally. Working with a consultancy like Lukadah ensures this entire process is streamlined, efficient, and stress-free.
Documents Required for Business Setup
To establish your company in the Dubai Flower Centre, you’ll need to gather a few essential documents. These typically include:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Business profile or brief plan
- Proof of residential address
- Application forms provided by the DFC authority
In some cases, additional documents such as a bank reference letter or parent company certificate (for branches) may be required. At Lukadah, we assist you in preparing and reviewing all documents to avoid delays and rejections.
Visa, Tax, and Compliance Requirements
When setting up at DFC, you’ll also need to consider immigration and tax compliance. As a business owner, you’ll be eligible to apply for an investor visa, along with visas for your employees and dependents. From a taxation perspective, the UAE has introduced corporate tax and VAT systems that may apply depending on your revenue and business activity. Even in a free zone, certain thresholds require you to register for corporate tax or VAT. It’s crucial to maintain proper bookkeeping and meet reporting deadlines to avoid penalties. Lukadah’s experienced team handles your visa applications, employee quota approvals, and full tax registration and compliance to ensure your business runs smoothly.
Why Choose Lukadah for Your DFC Business Setup
Setting up a business in a specialized free zone like Dubai Flower Centre may look simple, but it involves multiple layers of planning and legal work. That’s where Lukadah.com makes a difference. We’re not just business consultants, we’re your strategic partners. From selecting the right license to ensuring your tax compliance, we manage everything on your behalf. Our team offers:
- End-to-end company setup support
- Dedicated consultants for each phase
- Document preparation and submission
- Visa, PRO, and employee onboarding
- Accounting and tax filing services
With our transparent communication and in-depth local knowledge, we help you start strong and scale efficiently.
Avoid Common Mistakes in Business Setup
Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of choosing the wrong license or business activity. Some overlook how critical tax compliance is or fail to renew visas on time. These issues can delay your launch or even result in fines. By working with Lukadah, you get proactive guidance, up-to-date regulatory insights, and a tailored strategy to avoid costly errors. We handle your business with the same care as our own, ensuring full compliance from the very beginning.
Get Started with Lukadah
If you’re serious about starting a flower-related business in Dubai, the Dubai Flower Centre offers one of the most efficient, profitable, and scalable platforms in the UAE. Let Lukadah.com be your trusted partner in making it happen. From your first consultation to license issuance and visa processing, we’re with you every step of the way.
Contact Us
Phone: +971 4 394 0800
Email: info@lukadah.com
Website: www.lukadah.com
FAQs
1. Can I run a flower import business from DFC?
Yes, DFC is specifically designed for businesses dealing in flowers and perishable goods.
2. Do I need a UAE local partner?
In the DFC free zone, you are allowed to have full 100% ownership of your business.
3. How long does the setup process take?
With the right documentation, setup can be completed in a matter of days with Lukadah’s help.
4. Can I sponsor employees through my DFC business?
Yes. You will be given a visa quota based on your office or warehouse size.