Establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone is an important strategic step for companies and individuals seeking to strengthen their presence in the technology and communications market in the Middle East. Dubai Internet Free Zone was established in 1999 as part of the Dubai government’s vision to transform the city into a global hub for innovation and technology. Since its inception, Dubai Internet Free Zone has become home to many leading technology companies, from startups to major global corporations.

Dubai Internet Free Zone is strategically located in the heart of Dubai, providing companies with easy access to regional and international markets. This unique location enhances companies’ ability to expand and grow, as they benefit from the advanced infrastructure that includes modern offices, advanced communications networks, and integrated logistical services. The world-class infrastructure provided by the Dubai Internet Free Zone supports companies in providing their products and services with high efficiency, which enhances their competitiveness in global markets.

One of the most prominent advantages offered by the Dubai Internet Free Zone is the economic incentives and flexible legislation that make it easier for foreign and local companies to conduct their business. Companies in this zone enjoy corporate and individual tax exemptions, the freedom to transfer profits and capital without restrictions, as well as no restrictions on foreign ownership. These incentives make Dubai Internet Free Zone an attractive destination for foreign investments, as companies can operate in an environment that encourages growth and innovation without being exposed to traditional bureaucratic barriers.

Furthermore, Dubai Internet Free Zone hosts a diverse and vibrant community of technology companies and entrepreneurs, creating a dynamic environment that allows for the exchange of ideas and experiences and the entry into strategic partnerships. This vibrant community enhances opportunities for collaboration and innovation, as the area provides business events, exhibitions and conferences that allow companies to build business relationships and strengthen their professional networks. In addition, Dubai Internet’s business sector enjoys strong support from the Dubai Government, which constantly seeks to enhance the business environment and stimulate investments in the technology sector.

In addition to government support, companies in Dubai Internet can benefit from strategic partnerships with many actors in the public and private sectors. These partnerships give companies access to resources, technology and expertise that enhance their ability to innovate and grow. Establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone represents a unique opportunity to benefit from the favorable business environment and advanced infrastructure, in addition to economic incentives and extensive professional networks. These factors combined make Dubai Internet an ideal platform for companies seeking to achieve success and expansion in the global technology market.

Establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone

Advantages of establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone (DIC) provides a wide range of advantages that make it a preferred destination for entrepreneurs and investors in the technology sector. This region was established in 1999 with the aim of promoting innovation and supporting technology companies in the Middle East region. Below are the most prominent features that Dubai Internet offers to companies:

1. Strategic location

Dubai Internet is located in the heart of Dubai, giving it a strategic location that allows businesses easy access to regional and international markets. This location makes it easier for companies to communicate with customers and partners around the world, and makes it an ideal logistics hub for businesses.

2. Advanced infrastructure

Dubai Internet features advanced infrastructure that includes modern offices and high-tech facilities. The area provides a work environment equipped with the latest communications and information technologies, which supports companies in providing their services and products with high efficiency. The region also provides integrated logistics services that contribute to improving the efficiency of business operations.

3. Economic incentives

Dubai Internet offers a range of economic incentives that include tax exemption for companies and individuals, the freedom to transfer profits and capital without restrictions, and no restrictions on foreign ownership. These incentives make the free zone attractive to foreign investors and help them achieve better investment returns.

4. Ease of establishing a business

The procedures for establishing a company in Dubai Internet are simple and fast. The free zone provides integrated services to facilitate the establishment process, including administrative and legal support, which reduces bureaucratic complexities and accelerates the start of business operations.

5. Vibrant business community

Dubai Internet hosts a diverse community of technology companies and entrepreneurs, creating a dynamic and innovative business environment. This vibrant community provides opportunities for collaboration and the exchange of ideas and experiences, enhancing companies’ abilities to innovate and grow.

6. Strong government support

Businesses in Dubai Internet enjoy strong support from the Dubai government, which is committed to developing the technology and innovation sector. This support includes facilitating government procedures, encouraging investment in new technologies, and providing a business-friendly legislative environment.

7. Professional events and networks

Dubai Internet organizes many business events, exhibitions and conferences that bring together companies and entrepreneurs from around the world. These events provide opportunities to expand professional networks and build new business relationships, helping companies grow and expand.

8. Integrated services

Dubai Internet offers a wide range of integrated services that support businesses at all stages of their growth. These services include legal and administrative support, human resources services, and technical facilities, allowing companies to focus on developing their business.

9. A prime location to live and work

Dubai Internet provides an integrated business environment that includes high-quality residential and entertainment facilities. This environment makes the area an ideal place to live and work, as employees can access all their daily needs easily, which enhances their productivity and job satisfaction.

10. Corporate diversity

Dubai Internet hosts a diverse group of companies working in multiple fields such as software, information technology, communications, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence. This diversity creates a fruitful environment for cooperation and strategic partnerships between different companies.

Conditions for establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone

Conditions for establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone

Establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone (DIC) requires compliance with a set of conditions and procedures that ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. Here is a detailed look at the main conditions for establishing a company in Dubai Internet:

1. Choose the type of company

Investors must choose the type of company they want to establish. Available types include:

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): Can be established with one or more shareholders.
• Subsidiary: A branch of a local or international company.
• Representative Office: To create a presence without a full business.

2. Choose a business activity

Select the business activity from the list of activities approved by Dubai Internet. Available activities include:

• IT services
• Software development
• Internet services
• E-Commerce
• IT consulting

3. Minimum capital

Capital requirements vary based on the type of company and business activity. Typically, establishing a Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) requires a minimum amount of capital that must be deposited into the company account.

4. Choose the company name

The company name must be unique and not used by other companies.

5. Submit the required documents

Documents needed to establish a company include:

• Establishment application form
• A copy of the passport and a personal photo of shareholders and directors
• Detailed business plan
• The company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association
• No objection certificate (NOC) if the shareholders reside in the UAE and work for other entities

6. Rent an office or work space

The company must rent an office or work space within the Dubai Internet Free Zone. Multiple options are available, including shared offices, private offices, and co-working spaces. A copy of the lease contract must be submitted to the Dubai Internet Authority.

7. Obtaining the necessary approvals

Some commercial activities may require additional approvals from the relevant government authorities. Applications for special approvals must be submitted before a business license is issued.

8. Payment of fees

Fees related to establishing the company must be paid, which include registration fees, licensing, and other service fees. These fees vary based on the type of company and business activity.

9. Issuing a commercial license

After submitting all documents and paying the fees, the Dubai Internet Authority will review the application and issue the trade license. This license is considered the official authorization for the company to conduct its business in the free zone.

10. Open a bank account

After obtaining the business license, the company can open a business bank account in a local bank. Opening an account requires submitting a trade license, articles of incorporation, and other relevant documents.

11. Obtaining employee visas

The new company can apply for residence visas for employees and directors. This process requires submitting visa applications to the Dubai Internet Authority and meeting health and security requirements.

12. Compliance with laws and regulations

After establishing a company, investors must comply with all local laws and regulations, including submitting annual financial reports, renewing the business license, and paying annual fees.

Procedures for establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone

Establishing a company in Dubai Internet City (Dubai Internet City – DIC) provides many advantages for technology companies, including an integrated business environment, advanced infrastructure, and attractive economic incentives. However, establishing a company in this free zone requires following a series of careful procedures to ensure compliance with all local laws and regulations. Below we review the steps for establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone:

1. Research and preparation

Before embarking on company establishment procedures, investors must conduct comprehensive research about Dubai Internet and understand the permitted business activities. This includes studying the market to identify opportunities and analyzing local and regional competition.

2. Choose the type of company

Investors must choose the type of company they want to establish. Available options include:

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): Can be established with one or more shareholders.
• Branch of a local or international company: Suitable for companies that want to expand their business in the region.
• Representative Office: To create a presence without carrying out full business activities.

3. Determine the business activity

The business activity must be selected from the list of activities approved by Dubai Internet. These activities can include IT services, software development, e-commerce, and Internet services.

4. Choose the company name

The company name must be unique and reflect the nature of the business. Investors must check the availability of the name and reserve it with the Dubai Internet Authority to ensure that it is not used by other companies.

5. Preparing and submitting documents

Establishing a company requires submitting a set of basic documents, which include:

• Establishment application form.
• Copies of passports and personal photographs of shareholders and directors.
• Detailed business plan.
• The company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association.
• No objection certificate (NOC) if the shareholders reside in the UAE and work for other entities.

6. Signing the lease contract

The company must rent an office or work space within the Dubai Internet Free Zone. Multiple options are available, including shared offices, private offices, and co-working spaces. A copy of the lease contract must be submitted to the Dubai Internet Authority as part of the establishment procedures.

7. Payment of fees

Fees related to establishing the company must be paid, which include the initial registration fee, annual license fee, and any other fees related to special services and approvals. These fees vary based on the type of company and business activity.

8. Obtaining the necessary approvals

Some commercial activities may require additional approvals from the relevant government authorities. Investors must apply for these approvals before a business license is issued.

9. Issuing a commercial license

After submitting all documents and paying the fees, the Dubai Internet Authority will review the application and issue the trade license. This license is considered the official authorization for the company to conduct its business in the free zone.

10. Open a bank account

After obtaining the business license, the company can open a business bank account in a local bank. Opening an account requires submitting a trade license, articles of incorporation, and other relevant documents.

11. Employment and obtaining visas

The new company can apply for residence visas for employees and directors. This process requires submitting visa applications to the Dubai Internet Authority and meeting health and security requirements.

12. Compliance and follow-up

After establishing a company, investors must comply with all local laws and regulations, including submitting annual financial reports, renewing the business license, and paying annual fees.

Our company’s role in establishing a company in the free zone

Establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone in cooperation with Itqan Company represents a smart strategic step for any entrepreneur or investor seeking to benefit from the vast opportunities that Dubai offers in the technology and innovation sector. Dubai Internet, as one of the most prominent free zones in Dubai, provides an integrated environment that allows companies to focus on growth and innovation without worrying about legal or bureaucratic restrictions.

Itqan Company plays a vital role in facilitating the process of establishing companies by providing integrated consulting services that include all aspects of establishing a business, from choosing the appropriate type of company and submitting the necessary documents to obtaining the required approvals and renting appropriate offices. With its extensive experience and specialized team, Itqan ensures that the incorporation process is smooth and efficient, allowing business owners to focus on developing their business and achieving their strategic goals.

Cooperating with Itqan Company gives companies a competitive advantage by saving time and effort, and ensuring full compliance with all local regulations. In addition, Itqan contributes to providing customized solutions that suit the needs of each company, which enhances the chances of success in Dubai’s dynamic business environment.

In conclusion, establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone in cooperation with Itqan Company is not only an investment in a thriving business environment, but it is also a strategic partnership that opens new horizons for growth and innovation. This move ensures new companies a strong and sustainable start in one of the most technologically advanced markets in the world.

Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in the Dubai Internet Free Zone