Overview
Dubai Internet City (DIC) is the Middle East and North Africa region’s largest technology business community, part of the TECOM Group. Launched in 1999, DIC was the first free zone in the region dedicated to information and communications technology. Located in the Al Sufouh district, DIC hosts major global technology companies alongside a dynamic ecosystem of startups, scale-ups, and venture capital firms.
License Types
DIC provides commercial licenses for technology trading and distribution, professional licenses for software development, IT consultancy, and digital services, industrial licenses for hardware assembly and testing, and freelance permits for independent tech professionals. Each license category supports multiple business activities.
Costs
License fees at Dubai Internet City start at approximately AED 15,000 for a freelance or basic professional license. Commercial and industrial license packages are higher depending on the scope of activities and office requirements. Premium office spaces in DIC towers command some of the highest rates among TECOM communities, reflecting the location’s prestige. Visa allocations carry additional costs.
Setup Process
Registration follows the TECOM framework. Applicants access the e-services portal, select technology-related business activities, reserve a trade name, submit incorporation documents, choose office space from available inventory, and complete immigration procedures. Standard processing takes five to seven business days.
Benefits
DIC provides 100 percent foreign ownership, zero percent corporate and personal income tax on qualifying activities, full profit repatriation, access to the region’s most established technology ecosystem, and proximity to a dense network of tech talent, investors, and corporate partners. The In5 innovation centre within DIC supports early-stage startups.
Location and Infrastructure
Dubai Internet City occupies a prime position in Al Sufouh, directly off Sheikh Zayed Road and served by the Dubai Metro (Internet City station). The campus features modern office towers, co-working spaces, the In5 Tech incubator, retail and dining outlets, and green spaces. The area is adjacent to Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Park.
Key Sectors
DIC focuses on software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, fintech, e-commerce platforms, IT consulting, telecommunications, digital marketing technology, and blockchain. The zone serves as the regional headquarters for numerous global technology corporations.
Ideal Setup Profile
Dubai Internet City is best suited for established technology firms seeking regional presence, software companies, SaaS startups, IT consultancies, digital agencies, and tech entrepreneurs who benefit from proximity to a mature tech ecosystem and investor community.