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Dubai Outsource City
Free Zone

Dubai’s leading free zone for BPO, call centres and IT-enabled services. Dubai Outsource City (DOC), formerly Dubai Outsource Zone, was established in 2007 under TECOM Group. It hosts more than 160 companies and a professional community of over 8,000 people from 150+ nationalities. Licensing costs start from approximately AED 15,000, with company formation typically completed in 7 to 10 working days.

Zone at a Glance
RegulatorDubai Development Authority (DDA), under TECOM Group
LocationDubai, UAE
Launched2007 (originally Dubai Outsource Zone)
Companies Hosted160+
Professional Community8,000+ from 150+ countries
License TypesOutsourcing Services, Professional Services, Freelance Permit
Legal StructuresFZ-LLC, Branch (Local/Foreign)
Entry-Level License FeeApprox. AED 15,000 to 25,000
Setup TimeApprox. 7 to 10 working days
Sector FocusBPO, call centres, IT-enabled services, HR outsourcing
Notable TenantsAdventity BPO, Dulsco, Intelenet BPO Services
Cost EfficiencyCommonly cited up to 30% lower operational cost
INCHUB LICENSED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
IncHub Trade Licence

IncHub Corporate Services Providers LLC is a duly licensed business operating in the United Arab Emirates, authorised to provide corporate and business setup consultancy services in accordance with its trade licence. The trade licence serves as official proof of the company’s legal registration and authorised business activities.

Licence No.
1017774
Issue Date
28/12/2021
Valid Through
27/12/2026
Zone Overview

Dubai Outsource City Overview

Dubai Outsource City (DOC) is a specialised free zone created exclusively for outsourcing and business support industries. Unlike many free zones that serve multiple sectors, DOC focuses on businesses that provide customer support, back-office operations, IT-enabled services, HR outsourcing, shared services, and business process outsourcing.

Originally launched as Dubai Outsource Zone, the free zone was developed to help companies operate more efficiently by providing the infrastructure needed for high-volume service operations. Businesses benefit from modern office spaces, enterprise-grade telecommunications, reliable digital connectivity, and a supportive regulatory environment.

Over the years, Dubai Outsource City has attracted companies from industries such as banking, insurance, travel, hospitality, healthcare, government services, and finance. Many businesses choose DOC because it offers a specialised ecosystem where outsourcing companies can grow alongside technology providers, service partners, and skilled professionals.

Whether you are expanding into the Middle East or setting up a regional support centre, Dubai Outsource City free zone provides a suitable environment for long-term business growth. A well-planned dubai outsource city company set up can give service businesses access to specialised infrastructure and a strategic business location.

The Ecosystem

Built for Service Operations

Scale

160+ Companies

A dedicated community for BPO, call centres and IT-enabled services.

People

8,000+ Professionals

A workforce drawn from more than 150 nationalities.

Authority

DDA under TECOM

Regulated by the Dubai Development Authority, part of TECOM Group.

Ideal Profiles

Business Suitability

Dubai Outsource City is well suited for businesses that deliver professional and technology-enabled services. Businesses planning to start company in Dubai Outsource City should ensure that their proposed activities align with the free zone’s permitted business categories and infrastructure requirements.

BPO Companies

Business process outsourcing firms running back-office and customer operations.

Contact Centres

Customer support and contact centre operations.

Call Centres

Inbound and outbound call centre teams.

IT-Enabled Services

IT-enabled service providers and managed service companies.

Technical Support

Technical support and helpdesk operations.

HR and Payroll

HR outsourcing and payroll service companies.

Shared Services

Shared service centres and regional support offices.

Back-Office Processing

Document, data and transaction processing teams.

Less Suitable

Manufacturing, trading, warehousing or industrial activities. The free zone is designed for office-based operations.

Sector Profile

Dubai Outsource City Industry Profile

One of the biggest strengths of Dubai Outsource City (DOC) is its industry-focused ecosystem. Instead of serving every type of business, the free zone has been developed specifically for outsourcing and business support services. This sector-focused approach creates an environment where companies can access specialised infrastructure, experienced professionals, and business opportunities within the same community.

Businesses operating in Dubai Outsource City provide services across multiple industries, including financial services, banking, insurance, healthcare, telecommunications, travel, retail, and government support. The free zone is also home to recognised dubai outsource city companies such as Adventity BPO, Dulsco, and Intelenet BPO Services.

The infrastructure is designed to support businesses that manage high volumes of customer interactions and digital operations. Reliable telecommunications, modern office facilities, and scalable workspaces make it easier for companies to deliver uninterrupted services to clients across the UAE, GCC, and international markets.

Core Business Activities

Business process outsourcing, customer service and call centres, IT helpdesk and technical support, HR outsourcing and payroll, finance and accounting support, shared service centres, data processing and document management, healthcare billing and medical transcription, digital marketing support, and lead generation.

VAT Status

Dubai Outsource City is not classified as a Designated Zone for VAT purposes. Businesses must comply with standard UAE VAT regulations for eligible supplies. Eligible companies may benefit from the UAE corporate tax framework by qualifying as a Qualifying Free Zone Person, subject to the applicable conditions. Businesses considering dubai outsource city company incorporation should assess their VAT and corporate tax position during planning.

Structures & Requirements

License Options at Dubai Outsource City

Dubai Outsource City offers licensing options that match different business models, from independent professionals to large outsourcing companies. Selecting the appropriate activity and licence is an important part of dubai outsource city company registration.

Licensing

License Types

Outsourcing Services Licence: for BPO, customer support and call centres, data processing, IT-enabled services, and shared service operations.
Professional Services Licence: for business consultancy, HR outsourcing, payroll services, corporate support, and professional advisory solutions.
Freelance Permit: an affordable option for consultants and professionals offering BPO, IT, customer support, or related services independently.
Permitted activities can include call centre operations, customer support, IT support and managed services, data processing, HR and payroll outsourcing, accounting support, business consultancy, training services, and shared service operations.
Legal Structures

Company Structure Options

Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): an independent legal entity with one or more shareholders. The preferred structure for a new company in Dubai Outsource City free zone.
Branch of a Local Company: an existing UAE company can expand into DOC while keeping the legal identity of the parent company.
Branch of a Foreign Company: an international business can register a branch to serve clients across the UAE and the wider Middle East without creating a separate legal entity.
Choose the structure based on ownership, existing corporate arrangements, and the intended scope of operations. These points also matter when planning dubai outsource city company incorporation.
Setup Costs

Setup Costs

The total cost of dubai outsource city company set up depends on the licence type, office space, visa allocation, and additional government fees.

ItemTypical Cost (AED)
Outsourcing or Professional Services licenceApprox. 15,000 to 25,000
Freelance PermitLower-cost option for independent contractors
Freelancers usually require only a licence and a flexi-desk facility. Larger outsourcing companies and call centres typically need dedicated office space, which increases the investment. According to TECOM, businesses in Dubai Outsource City may achieve operational savings of up to 30% compared with general commercial free zones because of its specialised infrastructure and service-focused environment.

Request an Itemised Quote

Confirm the current licence, office and visa cost for your activity before you budget a Dubai Outsource City company setup.

Book a Consultation
Formation Guide

Dubai Outsource City Company Formation Process

Setting up a company in Dubai Outsource City is straightforward when documents are prepared in advance. The process generally takes 7 to 10 working days, although timelines vary with the activity and approvals required.

1
Structure
1 business day
Choose an FZ-LLC or branch, and the licence that matches your activities.
2
Approval
1 – 2 business days
Submit the company application for preliminary approval from the Dubai Outsource City authority.
3
Documents
1 business day
Provide incorporation documents, shareholder details, and supporting paperwork. Accurate files help streamline dubai outsource city company registration.
4
Office
1 – 2 business days
Select an office solution inside the free zone and complete the lease documentation required for licensing.
5
Licence
2 – 3 business days
After approvals and payments, the trade licence is issued and the company can begin operations.
6
Visas
7 – 10 business days
Apply for investor and employee visas based on the approved visa allocation.
7
Banking
3 – 6 weeks
Open a UAE corporate bank account to manage day-to-day transactions and start commercial operations.
Key Benefits

Key Benefits of Setting Up in Dubai Outsource City

DOC provides a specialised business environment built for outsourcing, customer support, and IT-enabled services.

Purpose-built for outsourcing

Facilities, licensing and the business ecosystem are designed for BPO companies, shared service centres, customer support teams, and back-office operations.

Established business community

More than 160 companies and over 8,000 professionals from 150+ countries. Established dubai outsource city companies include Adventity BPO, Dulsco, and Intelenet BPO Services.

Advanced digital infrastructure

Reliable telecommunications, high-speed connectivity, and modern offices for cloud operations and customer service platforms.

Competitive operating costs

According to TECOM, companies in DOC may achieve operational savings of up to 30% compared with general commercial free zones.

Flexible growth

Office options and visa allocations can grow with a consultancy, a customer support team, or a multinational outsourcing business.

Consider Alternatives

Business Suitability Considerations

Although DOC is an excellent choice for many service-based businesses, it may not suit every business model.

Software, SaaS or technology innovation

If the focus is product development rather than outsourcing or customer support, another technology free zone may fit better.

Lowest possible consultancy cost

A consultancy with no need for specialised outsourcing infrastructure may find a lower-cost generalist zone more practical.

No Dubai delivery team

Operations that are entirely international and do not need a business presence or service team in Dubai may not need DOC.

Trading, warehousing or manufacturing

DOC is designed for office-based service businesses, not industrial, logistics or trading activity.

Selecting the right free zone depends on your business activity, expansion plans, operational requirements, and long-term objectives.

Free Zone Comparison

DOC vs Dubai Internet City vs DMCC

Dubai Outsource City, Dubai Internet City and DMCC serve different operating models. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches what your business actually needs.

Factor DOC Dubai Internet City DMCC
Core FocusBPO, call centres and IT-enabled servicesSoftware, technology and internet businessesCommodities, crypto, trading and family offices
LocationDubai, under TECOM GroupDubai, under TECOM GroupJLT & Uptown Dubai
Call Centres and BPOPurpose-built campusTechnology community, not a contact-centre zoneNot a dedicated outsourcing campus
Software and SaaSBetter suited to service delivery than product companiesTechnology and software clusterBroad commercial licensing
Trading and ManufacturingOffice-based services onlyNot an industrial or trading zoneCommodity and trading platform
Entry LicenceApprox. AED 15,000–25,000Confirm with the authorityFrom AED 35,484
Operating CostTECOM cites up to 30% lower than generalist zonesSpecialist technology campusGeneral commercial free zone
Setup TimeApprox. 7–10 working daysConfirm with the authorityConfirm with DMCC
Best FitBPO, call centres, shared services and back-office teamsSoftware, SaaS and technology companiesCommodity traders, crypto and family offices

IncHub holds direct relationships across the UAE’s free zones and helps you choose the one that matches your activity, team and cost, not just the most familiar name.

Compliance

Compliance and Ongoing Obligations

Companies in Dubai Outsource City must comply with UAE regulations to maintain their licence. Standard federal obligations that apply to all free zone companies are documented in IncHub’s UAE Free Zone Compliance Guide. The points below are specific to service operations in DOC.

Annual Audit

Some businesses may be required to prepare audited financial statements depending on licence conditions, banking requirements, or client agreements. Confirm the latest audit requirements during company formation.

Data Protection Compliance

Businesses handling customer information, financial records, employee data, or confidential client information should maintain data protection practices in line with applicable UAE regulations and contractual obligations.

Telecommunications Compliance

Customer support centres and call centre services should ensure their telecommunications systems comply with the applicable requirements of the UAE authorities.

Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped businesses set up in Dubai free zones.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
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L
L S R Holiday Homes L.L.C
3 weeks ago

Visa renewal can often feel complicated due to the multiple steps involved. However, my experience with IncHub was very smooth. They planned the process in advance, guided me at every stage, and ensured everything was completed on time. What I liked most was that I didn’t have to follow up everything was managed efficiently by their team.

Google Verified Review
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D
DigitalX Tech – FZCO
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company was not straightforward, especially when it came to choosing the right jurisdiction for my business model. Making the wrong decision could have resulted in unnecessary time and cost. IncHub provided clear and practical guidance, helping me select the most suitable free zone based on my activities.

Google Verified Review
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C
Cosmium IT – FZCO
2 months ago

Setting up a company in Dubai can get confusing, especially with so many free zones. I wasn’t sure what would suit my business, but IncHub made it simple. They guided me clearly, handled everything, and kept me updated throughout. The whole process felt very smooth. Definitely recommend speaking to them before you get started.

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BLUEDCM FZE
1 month ago

Setting up my free zone company through IncHub was seamless from start to finish. Their team handled everything — trade licence, immigration card, and office registration — within the promised timeline. No surprises on costs. If you’re serious about establishing in the UAE, IncHub is who you call first.

Google Verified Review
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A
ABI Quality Goods Wholesalers Co. L.L.C
2 weeks ago

Most consultants only react when you approach them, but Inchub is different. They track your renewal timelines and remind you in advance. The execution was smooth, and everything was done exactly when it should be. If you want it done right the first time, Inchub is the way to go.

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Optimity L.L.C
1 month ago

I had a very positive experience with Inchub for my license renewal. What stood out the most was their follow-up system — I was reminded well before the expiry date, which gave enough time to plan everything properly. The team handled the entire process efficiently, and the renewal was completed without delays.

Google Verified Review
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Univex L.L.C-FZ
3 months ago

Inchub handled the entire business setup process smoothly — everything was clearly explained, and the execution was efficient from start to finish. They have also assisted and guided us when there were AML compliance notifications from the authority. Overall, a reliable partner for end-to-end corporate services.

Google Verified Review
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E
Ecom Vacation Homes Rental L.L.C
1 month ago

We had a bit of a challenge when it came to opening the labor file and processing new visas. There were a few complications along the way. That’s where Inchub really stepped in. Their team handled the entire process clearly and kept us updated throughout without us having to follow up constantly. Very reliable team.

Google Verified Review
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C
CMAR Management FZE
3 months ago

Our experience with Inchub has genuinely exceeded expectations. From the very beginning, the team has been extremely professional, approachable, and proactive. They’ve supported us across multiple areas — including corporate services, corporate tax filing, and visa renewals — all managed in a structured manner.

Google Verified Review
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T
Toyo Mea L.L.C-FZ
2 months ago

We worked with Inchub on a share amendment, which was quite complex. Their team guided us through each step, managed the process efficiently, and ensured everything was handled correctly despite the challenges. They also handle our accounting and VAT filing smoothly. A reliable and professional team.

Google Verified Review
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Nicube International FZCO
4 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub across multiple areas. They initially helped us with setting up both our offshore and free zone company, guiding us clearly. Since then, they’ve assisted us with annual renewals on time, and they manage our accounting and VAT filings efficiently. A highly dependable partner.

Google Verified Review
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Well Mate L.L.C-FZ
5 months ago

I’ve been working with Inchub for several years, and the experience has been consistently positive. Their services are reliable and efficient. They’ve supported me across multiple areas — from managing trade license renewals to assisting with business bank account opening. Having everything under one team saved a lot of effort.

Google Verified Review
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Telora Global L.L.C – FZ
2 months ago

Managing compliance alongside running a business can get overwhelming. Inchub takes care of our accounting, VAT, CT filings, and license renewal, which has saved us a lot of time and effort. Everything is handled efficiently and professionally. IncHub operates across every discipline and maintains high quality.

Google Verified Review
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Gaia Resources DMCC
2 months ago

We’ve been working with Inchub for our ongoing compliance and business support. They handle everything from maintaining our company’s good standing to managing renewals on time, along with accounting and VAT filings. A very smooth experience, and they are definitely a reliable partner.

Google Verified Review
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Nextgen Brokers FZE
3 months ago

We have engaged Inchub for ongoing compliance support. They handle our company’s good standing, ensure renewals are completed on time, and manage accounting and VAT filings efficiently. The team is proactive, well-organized, and keeps everything on track without the need for constant follow-ups.

Google Verified Review
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M
Mw Holding Group Ltd
4 months ago

We worked with Inchub for setting up our offshore holding company. They facilitated the entire process smoothly, including the company formation and opening the corporate bank account. They also manage our accounting and bookkeeping. It’s helpful to have one team handling both setup and ongoing requirements.

Google Verified Review
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J
Jannali Foundation
3 months ago

We engaged Inchub for setting up our RAK ICC foundation. They supported us throughout the entire formation process, including documentation, and guided us at every step. They also assisted with opening the bank account, which was handled smoothly. The team was very organized and efficient.

Google Verified Review
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D
Drops By Nada Portal
1 month ago

We worked with Inchub for both our license renewal and visa renewal. The entire process was handled very smoothly and efficiently from start to finish. Everything was completed right on time without any complications. Their structured approach and clear communication make them very easy to work with.

Google Verified Review
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P
Peopex LLC
5 months ago

Setting up a company in the UAE can feel complex. With Inchub, the entire process was handled seamlessly. They took care of everything — from the trade license and immigration card to visa application and even opening the company bank account. The team managed the entire process efficiently.

Google Verified Review
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A
Aube International Commercial Brokers
4 weeks ago

We’ve been working with Inchub since day one for license renewals, accounting and bookkeeping, and visa processing. The experience has been very smooth. One thing that stands out is how responsive their team is. Whenever we need support, they’re quick to respond and guide us clearly.

Google Verified Review
Work With IncHub

IncHub Support for Dubai Outsource City Company Formation

Setting up a business in Dubai Outsource City free zone involves selecting the right licence, legal structure, office solution, and compliance framework. IncHub provides end-to-end support throughout the dubai outsource city company formation process, helping businesses establish their operations efficiently and confidently. Whether you are launching a startup, expanding an existing outsourcing business, or establishing a regional support centre, the team provides practical guidance at every stage.

Our Dubai Outsource City Services Include
Free zone suitability assessment based on your business activity and operational requirements
Advice on selecting the most appropriate licence and legal structure
Complete company registration and documentation support
Coordination of preliminary approvals with the free zone authority
Assistance with office space selection and visa planning
Investor and employee visa processing
Corporate bank account assistance
VAT registration, UBO compliance, and ongoing corporate compliance support
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

These answers cover the questions businesses usually ask before a Dubai Outsource City company setup.

Work with IncHub

Start Your Dubai Outsource City Company with Expert Guidance

Setting up in Dubai Outsource City gives you access to one of the UAE’s most specialised free zones for outsourcing, customer support, and IT-enabled services. IncHub handles licence selection, legal structure, documentation, visa processing, and ongoing compliance. Contact IncHub today to begin your dubai outsource city company set up.

Dubai, UAE  |  www.inchub.ae
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