DIC - Dubai Internet City
Complete guide to registering your company in Dubai Internet City. Premium tech hub hosting global giants like Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, HP, and thousands of innovative tech companies.
About Dubai Internet City
Dubai Internet City (DIC) is the Middle East's leading ICT hub and one of the world's largest technology business parks. Since 2000, DIC has attracted over 1,800 companies including Fortune 500 tech giants. Part of TECOM Group, DIC offers premium office spaces, advanced infrastructure, and a vibrant ecosystem for technology companies, from startups to global enterprises.
License Types Available
Service License
For software development, IT consulting, cloud services, and technology consulting.
Commercial License
For trading in IT products, software distribution, and technology equipment.
Branch License
For multinational companies establishing regional presence in the UAE.
Freelance Permit
For independent IT professionals, developers, and tech consultants.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Valid passports for all shareholders and authorized signatories
- Business Plan: Detailed description of technology services and target market
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or bank statement for all stakeholders
- Additional Documents: Parent company documents if setting up branch office
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Select License & Activities
Choose license type and technology activities for your business
Timeline: 1 day
Trade Name Approval
Reserve company name through TECOM registration portal
Timeline: 1-2 days
Submit Application
Complete online application and upload required documents
Timeline: 1 day
Office Selection & Payment
Choose office space and pay license fees
Timeline: 1-2 days
License Issuance
Receive trade license and establishment card
Timeline: 1-2 days
Visas & Banking
Process residence visas and open corporate bank account
Timeline: 2-3 weeks
DIC Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 18,000 - 50,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 1,000 |
| Flexi-Desk (Annual) | 12,000 - 18,000 |
| Office Space (per sqft/year) | 70 - 110 |
| Establishment Card | 3,000 |
| Visa Allocation (per visa) | 4,500 - 6,000 |
* Premium pricing for world-class tech infrastructure and location.
Annual Compliance Requirements
License Renewal
Annual renewal with TECOM required before license expiry to avoid penalties.
Office Lease Maintenance
Valid office or flexi-desk lease must be maintained throughout license period.
Financial Statements
Prepare annual financial statements with audit requirement based on company size.
Corporate Tax Filing
Register and file annual Corporate Tax returns. QFZP status available for qualifying businesses.
VAT Compliance
VAT registration required if threshold exceeded. Quarterly VAT return filing.
Economic Substance Reporting
Annual ESR notification and detailed report for relevant activities required.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
DIC companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:
- 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income from approved activities
- 9% rate on non-qualifying income (mainland transactions)
- 100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation
Related Free Zones
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