TECOM - Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone
Complete guide to registering your company in TECOM Free Zone. An umbrella authority managing multiple specialized clusters including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, and Dubai Knowledge Park.
About TECOM
TECOM Group is Dubai's leading provider of business and lifestyle destinations, managing 10 specialized free zones including Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Media City (DMC), Dubai Studio City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai Production City. With over 6,500 companies including global tech giants like Microsoft, Google, Meta, and LinkedIn, TECOM offers a dynamic ecosystem for technology, media, education, and creative businesses.
License Types Available
Technology Services License
For IT services, software development, cloud computing, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and technology consulting.
Media & Creative License
For broadcasting, production, advertising, digital marketing, and creative content services.
Educational Services License
For training centers, e-learning platforms, educational consulting, and academic support services.
Branch Office License
For multinational companies establishing a UAE presence without setting up a separate legal entity.
Registration Requirements
- Passport Copies: Valid passports for all shareholders and managers (6+ months validity)
- Proof of Address: Recent bank statement or utility bill for all shareholders
- Business Plan: Detailed description of business activities, target market, and revenue model
- Parent Company Documents: Certificate of incorporation and memorandum (for branch offices)
- Reference Letters: Bank reference letters for shareholders (for certain license types)
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Select TECOM Cluster
Choose appropriate zone: Dubai Internet City (tech), Media City (media), Knowledge Park (education), etc.
Timeline: 1 day
Company Name Approval
Submit company name for reservation through TECOM online portal
Timeline: 1-2 days
License Application
Complete application with business activities, shareholder structure, and required documents
Timeline: 2-3 business days
Office Space & Payment
Select office solution (flexi-desk, shared space, or dedicated office) and pay fees
Timeline: 1-2 days
License Issuance
Receive trade license and establishment card after final approval
Timeline: 1-2 days
Visas & Banking
Process residence visas for staff and open corporate bank account
Timeline: 3-5 weeks
TECOM Fee Structure
| Description | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee (Annual) | 20,000 - 50,000 |
| Registration Fee (One-time) | 7,500 |
| Security Deposit | 15,000 (refundable) |
| Flexi-Desk (Annual) | 18,000 - 25,000 |
| Establishment Card | 2,000 |
| Visa Processing (per visa) | 4,000 - 6,000 |
* Fees vary by specific TECOM cluster. Contact us for detailed pricing.
Annual Compliance Requirements
Trade License Renewal
Annual renewal before expiry. Grace period available with additional charges for late renewal.
Office Lease Compliance
Valid office agreement required throughout license period. Options include flexi-desk, co-working, or dedicated space.
Financial Auditing
Annual audit required for companies exceeding revenue thresholds or conducting specific activities.
Corporate Tax Filing
Annual CT return filing mandatory. QFZP benefits available for qualifying free zone income.
VAT Compliance
VAT registration required if annual taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000. Quarterly return submissions.
Economic Substance Requirements
Annual ESR notification and full reporting for companies conducting relevant activities.
Tax Implications
QFZP Status Benefits
TECOM companies may qualify as Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) and enjoy:
- 0% Corporate Tax on qualifying income from free zone transactions
- 9% Corporate Tax on non-qualifying income (domestic UAE business)
- De minimis threshold of 5% or AED 5M for non-qualifying revenue
Related Free Zones
Ready to Set Up Your TECOM Company?
TaxSey provides end-to-end TECOM registration and ongoing tax compliance support
Get Started Today