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Dubai Internet City
Technology & Innovation Free Zone

Dubai Internet City, established in 1999 to 2000 and managed by TECOM Group, is the largest ICT-focused free zone in the Middle East and North Africa, home to more than 1,600 companies including the regional offices of Google, Oracle, Microsoft and Visa. Licences start from around AED 15,010 a year, with a realistic first-year setup near AED 55,000 once office space is included, a premium over generalist free zones that buys genuine proximity to the world’s biggest technology brands.

Zone at a Glance
RegulatorTECOM Group (Dubai Holding)
LocationAl Sufouh, Dubai (TECOM cluster)
Launched1999 – 2000
Designated Zone No (standard UAE VAT)
Entry-Level FeeFrom approx. AED 15,010 / year
Legal StructuresFZE, FZ-LLC, Branch, Freelancer
Setup TimeApprox. 4 – 6 weeks
Companies Hosted1,600+ incl. Google & Microsoft
DUBAI INTERNET CITY REGISTERED CORPORATE SERVICE PROVIDER
Dubai Internet City Certificate

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, demonstrating that IncHub operates as a licensed corporate service provider in the UAE.

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

What Is Dubai Internet City?

Dubai Internet City (DIC) is a leading ICT free zone in Dubai, established in 1999 as a dedicated hub for technology and innovation businesses. Managed by TECOM Group, it forms part of Dubai’s knowledge economy ecosystem alongside Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Park.

Dubai Internet City company formation is a preferred choice for IT companies, software firms, startups, digital businesses, and technology enterprises looking to establish a presence in the UAE. Home to over 1,600 companies, including global brands such as Google, Microsoft, Oracle, and Visa, DIC provides businesses with access to a thriving technology ecosystem and valuable networking opportunities within the region’s largest tech hub.

With Dubai Internet City business setup, companies benefit from a strategic location, a business-friendly regulatory framework, and direct access to industry leaders, investors, and skilled talent. Whether you’re launching a startup or expanding an established technology company, Dubai Internet City offers an ideal environment for sustainable growth and innovation.

The Ecosystem

MENA’s Original Tech Hub

Regulator

TECOM Group

Part of Dubai Holding, TECOM manages DIC within the wider TECOM free zone cluster.

Location

Al Sufouh, Dubai

Alongside Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Park in Dubai’s knowledge economy.

Scale

1,600+ Companies

Home to Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco and other global technology leaders.

Ideal Profiles

Who Is Dubai Internet City For?

Dubai Internet City is ideal for technology-driven businesses seeking a presence within Dubai’s leading tech ecosystem. It is a strong fit for:

Software, SaaS & IT Services

Software, SaaS, and IT services companies seeking a presence within Dubai’s leading technology ecosystem.

Telecom, Cybersecurity, Cloud & Enterprise Tech

Telecom, cybersecurity, cloud, and enterprise technology firms establishing regional headquarters in the UAE and MENA region.

Startups & Scale-Ups

Startups and scale-ups that benefit from access to DIC’s technology community, talent pool, and networking opportunities.

Credibility & a Prestigious Tech Address

Businesses that value industry credibility and a prestigious technology free zone address over the lowest setup cost.

Less Natural Fit

Non-technology businesses are less suitable, as DIC’s licensing, infrastructure, and community are designed specifically for ICT activities. General trading and non-tech consultancy firms may find better value in a general-purpose free zone.

Sector Profile

What Dubai Internet City Is Famous For

Dubai Internet City is one of the Middle East’s leading technology free zones and is home to more than 1,600 companies, including Google, Microsoft, Oracle, Cisco, Huawei, SAP, Dell Technologies, and LinkedIn. It is a preferred location for technology company formation in Dubai and for multinational companies establishing regional headquarters in the MENA region.

The Core Commercial Advantage

The core commercial advantage of DIC is its technology ecosystem. Businesses benefit from proximity to global technology companies, access to skilled talent, networking opportunities, and increased credibility with enterprise clients, investors, and partners that general free zones often cannot offer.

Who Is Actually Registered Here

Technology multinational regional headquarters, software and SaaS companies, IT consulting and managed services firms, cybersecurity companies, cloud computing businesses, digital transformation agencies, e-commerce technology providers, and professional service firms supporting the technology sector.

Designated Zone for VAT Purposes

No: Dubai Internet City is not classified as a Designated Zone under UAE VAT law. Businesses operating in DIC are subject to standard UAE VAT regulations, while eligible companies may benefit from Qualifying Free Zone Person status and 100% foreign ownership.

Structures & Requirements

License Types & Company Structures

As with other TECOM free zones, activities at Dubai Internet City are primarily limited to technology, innovation, and digital businesses, with licensing options tailored to the technology sector.

Licensing

License Types Available

Trading License: for companies trading in technology hardware, software, and related products.
Service License: for software development, IT consultancy, technology services, cybersecurity, and related professional activities. This is the most common licence type for Dubai Internet City company formation.
Innovation / Freelancer Permit: for technology professionals, developers, and consultants operating without a full company structure.
As with other TECOM free zones, activities are primarily limited to technology, innovation, and digital businesses. Company formation is completed through the TECOM registration process, where applicants undergo standard KYC and compliance checks.
Structures & Capital

Company Structures

FZE

Free Zone Establishment (FZE): a single shareholder, individual or corporate.

FZ-LLC / FZCO

Free Zone Company (FZ-LLC / FZCO): a multi-shareholder entity with up to 50 shareholders.

Branch

Branch: an extension of an existing UAE or foreign parent company, carrying out the same activity as the parent rather than a separate legal entity.

Freelancer Permit

Freelancer Permit: for individual professionals operating without incorporating a company.

Requirements
KYC and compliance checks completed through the TECOM registration process.
Corporate shareholders must submit company ownership documents.
Full Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) disclosure under UAE AML/CFT rules.
Share Capital

Dubai Internet City sets no fixed statutory minimum paid-up capital. Business licenses are typically issued on an annual basis, with selected multi-year options available. Company formation is completed through the TECOM registration process, where applicants undergo standard KYC and compliance checks.

Setup Costs

Setup Costs and Packages

Dubai Internet City licences start from around AED 15,010 a year, with a realistic first-year setup near AED 55,000 once office space is included:

Item Notes Typical Cost (AED)
Business plan approval One-time approval of your business plan Approx. AED 2,000 (one-time)
Company registration fee One-time incorporation registration Approx. AED 3,510 (one-time)
Trade licence fee Annual technology licence From approx. AED 15,010 – 15,020 / year
Workstation / office rental Scales with the space you take From approx. AED 35,000 / year
Realistic first-year all-in setup Licence, office and fees combined Approx. AED 55,000 and up
DIC’s pricing sits noticeably above generalist, flexi-desk-first free zones like IFZA, reflecting its dedicated technology infrastructure and tenant community rather than a bare-minimum licence. Visa costs, Emirates ID and medical testing apply on top and are consistent with UAE-wide rates.

Dubai Internet City Cost Calculator

Not sure what your business setup will cost? Receive a personalised, itemised quote based on your activity, licence and company structure—in under 2 minutes.

Prefer to talk it through first? Book a free consultation call.

Formation Guide

How to Set Up a Company in Dubai Internet City

Setting up a company in Dubai Internet City follows a clear, staged process completed through the TECOM registration process.

1
Define Business Structure
Day 1
Define your business activity and choose your legal structure.
2
Reserve Name & Apply
2 – 3 business days
Reserve a trade name and submit your application for approval.
3
Submit Documents
1 business day
Submit shareholder documents through the TECOM registration process.
4
Pay Fees
Same day
Pay the registration and license fees to complete incorporation.
5
Choose Office
1 business day
Choose your office space or workstation within DIC.
6
Receive License
4 – 6 weeks
Receive your trade license; company formation is typically completed within 4 to 6 weeks.
7
Apply for Visas
7 – 10 business days
Apply for UAE residency visas under your visa allocation.
8
Bank Account
3 – 6 weeks
Open a corporate bank account following license issuance.
Key Benefits

Why Businesses Choose Dubai Internet City

Dubai’s Leading Technology Free Zone

Home to more than 1,600 companies, including Microsoft, Google, Oracle and Cisco, making it one of the region’s most prestigious technology business addresses.

Access to a Strong Technology Ecosystem

Businesses benefit from proximity to multinational technology companies, creating opportunities for partnerships, talent acquisition, and business growth.

Part of Dubai’s TECOM Business Cluster

DIC sits alongside Dubai Media City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Studio City, and Dubai Design District, encouraging collaboration across multiple industries.

Flexible Office Solutions

Dubai Internet City offers workspace options ranging from freelancer desks and coworking spaces to full corporate headquarters.

Freelancer-Friendly Setup Options

The GoFreelance permit allows technology professionals and consultants to establish a UAE presence without forming a full company.

Consider Alternatives

When Dubai Internet City May Not Be the Right Fit

Hardware & Industrial Production

If your business involves hardware manufacturing or industrial production, Dubai Silicon Oasis may be a better choice due to its industrial and technology infrastructure.

Fintech & Regulated Finance

If your activity involves fintech or regulated financial services requiring DFSA regulation, DIFC offers the regulatory framework and fintech licensing options that DIC does not provide.

Lowest-Cost Tech Setup

If your priority is the lowest company formation cost for a technology consultancy or freelance business, IFZA, Dubai Silicon Oasis, or SHAMS may offer more affordable alternatives.

R&D & Innovation Support

If your business focuses on research and development or innovation projects seeking government support, SRTIP’s research-driven ecosystem may be more suitable than DIC’s commercial technology environment.

Dubai Internet City is best suited for technology companies that benefit from its established tech ecosystem, industry reputation, access to talent, and proximity to multinational technology firms.

Free Zone Comparison

Dubai Internet City vs Dubai Silicon Oasis vs DIFC

Dubai Internet City, Dubai Silicon Oasis and DIFC serve very different business models. IncHub compares each one so you choose the authority that matches what your business actually needs, not just the most recognisable name.

Factor Dubai Internet City Dubai Silicon Oasis DIFC
Core Focus Tech multinationals, software, SaaS Innovation, hardware, industrial tech Financial services, fintech, funds
Ecosystem MENA tech HQ hub (Google, Microsoft) Innovation & hardware community Financial & legal hub
Entry-Level Cost From approx. AED 15,010 Lower / affordable Premium
Regulator TECOM Group Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority DFSA / DIFC Authority
Best For Software, SaaS, IT services, tech HQs Hardware, R&D, industrial tech Banks, fintech, regulated finance

IncHub holds direct relationships across the UAE’s free zones, helping you choose the one that best fits your sector and regulatory needs, not just the one with the strongest brand.

Compliance

Compliance & Ongoing Obligations

Standard UAE free zone compliance requirements, including corporate tax, VAT, Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) reporting, accounting, licence renewal, visa renewal, and FTA updates, apply to Dubai Internet City companies. The Dubai Internet City–specific obligations are listed below.

Annual Audit

Dubai Internet City companies may be required to submit audited financial statements annually in accordance with Dubai Development Authority (DDA) requirements. Audit obligations should be confirmed during company setup.

Economic Substance Regulations (ESR)

Companies carrying out relevant activities such as holding, distribution, intellectual property, headquarters, and fund management must comply with ESR notification and reporting requirements where applicable.

Data Protection Compliance

Technology companies processing personal data or providing data processing services must comply with UAE data protection regulations and applicable guidance issued by the relevant authorities.

Dubai Internet City Compliance Guide

Standard UAE federal compliance obligations for free zone companies corporate tax, VAT, UBO, accounting, licence and visa renewal, and FTA amendments covered in one detailed guide.

Want IncHub to manage compliance for your Dubai Internet City company? Book a free review call.

Prefer to read it yourself first?

Read the Compliance Guide →
Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Watch how IncHub helped businesses set up in Dubai Internet City, the MENA region’s original technology free zone.

Video Stories
Google Reviews 1 / 20
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
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.

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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.

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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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O
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.

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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
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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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W
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.

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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.

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G
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
N
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.

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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.

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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
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.

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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
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

How IncHub Can Help You Set Up in Dubai Internet City

IncHub helps technology businesses evaluate whether Dubai Internet City is the right choice compared to alternatives such as DSO, DIFC Innovation Hub, and IFZA, manages the complete setup process, and supports ongoing compliance requirements.

OUR SERVICES FOR COMPANY FORMATION IN DUBAI INTERNET CITY
Free zone suitability assessment based on your business activity, target market, and budget
Licence type and legal structure selection (FZE, FZ-LLC, Branch, or GoFreelance Permit)
Data protection compliance assessment for businesses handling personal data
Office and facility selection, including flexi-desks, co-working spaces, and dedicated offices
Investor and employee visa processing
Corporate bank account assistance with UAE banking partners
ESR notifications, annual audit coordination, and compliance support
UBO reporting, VAT registration, and FTA amendment management
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with IncHub

Ready to Set Up Your Dubai Internet City Company?

IncHub helps technology businesses evaluate whether Dubai Internet City is the right choice compared to alternatives such as DSO, DIFC Innovation Hub, and IFZA, manages the complete setup process, and supports ongoing compliance requirements.

Dubai, UAE  |  www.inchub.ae