Dubai · Dubai Development Authority · Est. 1999
Launched as the Middle East's foundational technology hub, Dubai Internet City (DIC) hosts regional headquarters for major global tech companies including Microsoft, Google, and Meta. Packages start from AED 30,000, supporting up to 6 visa allocations with moderate banking access. Positioned within TECOM Group's tech cluster, DIC is ideal for established software, IT, and digital firms seeking enterprise-grade networking and brand visibility in the region.
Fees last checked · Licensing authority: Dubai Development Authority. Fees change, so confirm the current amount with the authority before you pay.
From
AED 22,150
Year 1 (estimated)
Quick facts
Zero Visa Package
AED 30,000
Standard Licence · Flexi Desk · 0 visas
Renews at AED 30,000
1 Visa Package
AED 37,340
Standard Licence · Flexi Desk · 1 visa
Renews at AED 33,000
2 Visa Package
AED 42,680
Standard Licence · Flexi Desk · 2 visas
Renews at AED 34,000
3 Visa Private Office Package
AED 73,020
Standard Licence · Private Office · 3 visas
Renews at AED 60,000
6 Visa Private Office Package
AED 124,040
Standard Licence · Private Office · 6 visas
Renews at AED 104,000
Advisory Estimate
AED 22,150
— · 0 visas
Renews at AED 15,000
Estimated
Flexi desk or private office is mandatory for visa eligibility; no virtual office option. Private office rents run roughly AED 1,200-1,800/sqm/year. Visa validity is 2 years, so visa renewal cost does not recur annually.
DIC suits trading, tech and media businesses. Confirm your exact activity is on the zone's list before you apply.
Comparing with a mainland licence? Trading & Services · Transport, Storage & Logistics · IT & Media · Professional & Technical Services
Features
Mainland trading
Dual licence allowed
Crypto-friendly
Shared ownership
Coworking available
Online portal
Audit required
Tax and compliance analysis
Substance
High
Audit risk
Moderate
Forensic ease
7/10
Global Tech Powerhouse; The Epicenter of 'Qualifying IP' Audits.
Dubai Internet City is the MENA region's premier technology hub. For 2026, the primary forensic challenge is the 'Modified Nexus Approach' for Intellectual Property. Under Decree-Law 47, only income derived from 'Qualifying IP' (patents, copyrighted software) can claim the 0% rate, and this is mathematically linked to the R&D expenditure incurred locally. SaaS companies must perform a forensic revenue split to separate 'Qualifying IP Income' from standard 'Service/Consulting Income,' which is taxable at 9%.
DIC is a Non-Designated Zone. QFZP status is strictly applied to 'Qualifying Intellectual Property' and authorized 'Headquarter Services.' Compliance requires a granular R&D ledger to satisfy OECD-aligned tax standards.
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Tax and compliance
DIC tax status and QFZP rules →
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How much does it cost to set up in DIC?
The cheapest published package for Dubai Internet City is Advisory Estimate at AED 22,150 for Year 1, renewing at AED 15,000. Costs scale with visa count, office type, and licensed activities.
How long does DIC setup take?
Typical processing time is 5–21 business days, though bank account opening usually adds further time.
Is banking easy to set up with a DIC licence?
Banking difficulty for DIC is rated "Moderate". Known banking partners include Emirates NBD, Mashreq Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai, RAKBANK.
How many visas can I get with a DIC licence, and what do they cost?
DIC allows 3 visas per desk. Published packages include up to 6 visas (6 Visa Private Office Package, AED 124,040 for Year 1). Visa validity is 2 years, so visa renewal cost does not recur annually.
How much is the DIC licence renewal each year?
Annual renewal runs from AED 12,000 to AED 20,000, depending on the package, office and visa count.
What is the minimum share capital in DIC?
DIC sets no minimum share capital for a standard company, though some activities and entity types carry their own requirement.
Do I need a physical office in DIC?
Flexi desk or private office is mandatory for visa eligibility; no virtual office option. Private office rents run roughly AED 1,200-1,800/sqm/year. The smallest office we hold for DIC is 18 sq m.
Can a DIC company trade on the UAE mainland?
Not directly. A DIC company trades inside the zone and abroad; selling to mainland customers usually needs a distributor or a separate mainland licence.