Dubai · Dubai Development Authority · Est. 2003
Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP) is a specialized free zone under TECOM Group focused on human resource management, corporate training, professional development, and educational consulting. Packages start from AED 7,500, supporting up to 10 visa allocations and moderate corporate banking access. DKP provides tailored desk and office infrastructure for training organizations, HR consultancies, and individual educators operating in Dubai.
Fees last checked · Licensing authority: Dubai Development Authority. Fees change, so confirm the current amount with the authority before you pay.
From
AED 7,500
Year 1
Quick facts
GoFreelance Permit Only
AED 7,500
Freelancer Permit · None · 0 visas
Renews at AED 7,500
GoFreelance + 1 Visa
AED 16,080
Freelancer Permit · None · 1 visa
Renews at AED 10,520
FZ-LLC + Flexi Desk + 2 Visas
AED 48,140
FZ-LLC · Flexi Desk · 2 visas
Renews at AED 37,020
Estimated
FZ-LLC + Private Office + 4 Visas
AED 103,260
FZ-LLC · Private Office · 4 visas
Renews at AED 81,020
Estimated
Physical office required for FZ-LLC corporate packages; GoFreelance permit route does not require dedicated office space. Visa validity is 2 years, so visa renewal cost does not recur annually.
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
8/10
The Knowledge Hub; Specialized in 'Educational' vs. 'Commercial' Revenue Splits.
DKP is the UAE’s primary node for human capital development. For 2026, the forensic challenge is 'Service Characterization.' Under UAE VAT and Corporate Tax law, 'First-supply' education services (KHDA-approved) are often zero-rated or qualifying, but 'Executive Coaching' and 'Management Consulting' are typically standard-rated (5% VAT) and Non-Qualifying (9% CT). DKP entities must implement a forensic P&L split to ensure that commercial consulting revenue does not exceed the 5% de-minimis threshold and disqualify their entire 0% educational tax-base.
Service-based Free Zone. Article 18 QFZP status is contingent on proving that 'Core Income-Generating Activities' (CIGA)—the actual teaching or training—are physically localized within DKP-approved classrooms or administrative offices.
Go deeper — instantly with AI, or with a setup consultant.
Prefer a human? A licensed setup consultant from our network will review your case and reach out directly — no charge to inquire.
Request a callbackResponse within 2–3 business days
Tax and compliance
DKP tax status and QFZP rules →
Compare
Every free zone ranked by cost →
Activities
Which activities each zone permits →
Leave your details and an adviser will call you back about setting up in Dubai Knowledge Park. There's no charge to ask.
How much does it cost to set up in DKP?
The cheapest published package for Dubai Knowledge Park is GoFreelance Permit Only at AED 7,500 for Year 1, renewing at AED 7,500. Costs scale with visa count, office type, and licensed activities.
How long does DKP setup take?
Typical processing time is 2–12 business days, though bank account opening usually adds further time.
Is banking easy to set up with a DKP licence?
Banking difficulty for DKP is rated "Moderate". Known banking partners include Emirates NBD, Mashreq, RAKBANK, ADCB, Wio Bank.
How many visas can I get with a DKP licence, and what do they cost?
DKP allows 3 visas per desk. Published packages include up to 4 visas (FZ-LLC + Private Office + 4 Visas, AED 103,260 for Year 1). A dependent (family) visa costs about AED 5,000. Visa validity is 2 years, so visa renewal cost does not recur annually.
How much is the DKP licence renewal each year?
Annual renewal runs from AED 10,000 to AED 17,000, depending on the package, office and visa count.
What is the minimum share capital in DKP?
DKP 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 DKP?
Physical office required for FZ-LLC corporate packages; GoFreelance permit route does not require dedicated office space. The smallest office we hold for DKP is 18 sq m.
Can a DKP company trade on the UAE mainland?
Not directly. A DKP company trades inside the zone and abroad; selling to mainland customers usually needs a distributor or a separate mainland licence.