Registrar of Companies.
Incorporation and registration of all entities in DIFC.
The Registrar of Companies (RoC) administers the incorporation of new entities, the registration of branches and other recognised entities, and the continuation of entities into DIFC under DIFCA-administered legislation.
Status and independence
The Registrar of Companies is an independent statutory office established under the Operating Law (DIFC Law No. 7 of 2018). The Registrar administers and enforces the legislation entrusted to it, oversees the incorporation, registration and continuation of entities within the DIFC, maintains public registers, and exercises statutory supervisory, inspection, investigation and enforcement powers to promote transparency, compliance and confidence in the DIFC. The Board of Directors of DIFC Authority (DIFCA) appoints the Registrar after consulting the President of DIFC.
The Registrar acts independently when exercising its powers and performing its functions, even though the office forms part of DIFC Authority.
Objectives
The Registrar promotes compliance, administers legislation effectively and transparently, addresses non-compliance, maintains public registers and supports requirements relating to information exchange, anti-money laundering, terrorism financing, unlawful organisations and sanctions.
Functions and powers
The Registrar administers applicable DIFC legislation, develops draft regulations and guidance, prescribes forms and procedures, processes filings, issues licences and exemptions, maintains public registers, and monitors and enforces compliance.
Public registers and information
The Registrar maintains public registers and makes certain information available to the public in accordance with the Operating Law and other applicable DIFC legislation.
Key services
Incorporation, Registration and Continuation
Process applications to incorporate, register or continue companies, partnerships, non-profit incorporated organisations, foundations and other entities under DIFCA-administered legislation.
Issue and Renew Licences
Issue, renew and administer licences, including related filings.
Provide Guidance and Respond to Enquiries
Provide general guidance on laws, procedures, forms and filing requirements, and respond to enquiries regarding incorporation, registration, continuation, licensing, filings, public registers, extracts and certified copies. Any guidance is general in nature and does not replace applicable legislation or independent legal advice.
Further information
Access key resources and information from DIFC:
View Legal Database View Public Register View Handbooks and Fees
For further assistance, contact DIFC on +971 4 362 2222.
Key functions
Advisory.
ROC handles application enquiries.The first point of contact is the DIFC Authority Business Development Department.
Incorporation.
Company registration and incorporation.ROC is responsible for all matters related to incorporation.
Licences.
Issue and renewal of licences.ROC is responsible for issuing and renewing licences for non-regulated commercial activity.
Services offered
Company registration
Register a new company in DIFC.
Licence renewal