Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) Business Set Up

Take advantage of the lucrative business opportunities in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) Free Zone by setting up your company today!

Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) is a premier education hub in the Middle East, dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and fostering innovation. Established in 2007, DIAC is home to numerous international universities and educational institutions, offering a diverse range of academic programs.

With a wide area of 18 million sq ft. Dubai International Academic City is home to 28 international institutions with 300 Higher Education modules. DIAC offers all the modern facilities to help you excel in the academic and non-academic industry. It is the world’s largest free zone dedicated to higher education.

The free zone provides an ideal environment for educational institutions, training centers, and related businesses to thrive and grow.

Choosing DIAC for your business setup offers unparalleled advantages. The free zone is strategically located, providing easy access to Dubai’s vibrant business and cultural centers. DIAC is designed to support the academic community with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring an optimal environment for learning, research, and development. The free zone offers a conducive environment for collaboration and networking, fostering partnerships between academic institutions and industry leaders.

Moreover, DIAC provides a range of incentives that make it an attractive choice for businesses. These include 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate tax, and full repatriation of profits and capital. Additionally, DIAC offers a streamlined business setup process, making it easier for institutions and companies to establish their presence. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, DIAC is committed to supporting the growth and development of the education sector in the region.

  • 100% foreign ownership 
  • Zero tax regime
  • Global connectivity
  • No currency restrictions 
  • Duty-free business environment
  • Modern facilities and offices
  • 100% repatriation of capital and profits
  • Modern IT infrastructure
  • Global academic partners
  • Flexible visa laws
  • Exclusive residential areas
  • Cost-effective business setup

Types of Legal Entities Allowed at DIAC

Here are some of the business licenses available in Dubai International Academic City Free Zone:

  • UAE Company’s Branch Office: Allows a UAE-based company to establish a branch within DIAC, extending its operations and presence.
  • Free Zone LLC: A limited liability company established within DIAC, offering flexibility and ease of operation.
  • Foreign Company’s Branch Office: Enables international companies to set up a branch in DIAC and operate under the parent company’s name.
  • Freelance: Allows individuals to offer their services as independent professionals within DIAC.
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Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) allows a wide range of business activities that you can choose from. These include both academic-related and non-academic businesses:

  • Education and Training
  • Academics
  • Consultancy Services
  • Marketing Services
  • Technical Services
  • IT and Software
  • Event Management
  • Media and Entertainment
  • Universities
  • Retail
  • Hospitality
  • Financial and Insutance Services
  • Transport

Facilities Offered at Dubai International Academic City

DIC Free Zone offers a wide range of facilities, and amenities for companies in the academic and non-academic sectors. These facilities include:

  • Commercial Spaces: Modern and versatile commercial spaces designed to meet the needs of educational institutions and related businesses.
  • D/Quarters: Innovative and collaborative spaces designed for startups and entrepreneurs within the education sector.
  • in5 Centres: Dedicated innovation centers that provide support and resources for startups and entrepreneurs.
  • GoFreelance: A program that supports freelancers by providing them with the necessary licenses and workspace to operate within DIAC.
  • Retail: Retail spaces that cater to the needs of students, faculty, and staff, enhancing the overall campus experience.

DIAC University List

Dubai International Acadmic City offers joint ventures allowing businesses to set up their company in the free zone. Some of the major academic institutions and universities in DIAC are:

  1. American University in Emirates
  2. Cambridge College International Dubai
  3. Manchester Business School Worldwide
  4. Middlesex University, Dubai Campus
  5. Birla Institute of Technology & Science Pilani
  6. EHSAL
  7. Hamdan Bin Mohamed e-University (HBMeU)
  8. French Fashion University Esmod
  9. Hult International Business School
  10. Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus
  11. Institute of Management Technology
  12. JSS Education Foundation
  13. Islamic Azad University
  14. Manipal University, Dubai Campus
  15. Michigan State University Dubai
  16. SAE Institute
  17. Murdoch University International Study Centre Dubai
  18. Saint-Petersburg State University of Engineering and Economics
  19. Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST)
  20. SP Jain Center of Management
  21. Syrian Virtual University
  22. The British University in Dubai
  23. University of Brandford
  24. University of Phoenix
  25. The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)
  26. The University of Exeter

How to Set Up a Business in Dubai Internaitonal Acadmic City (DIAC) Free Zone

Choose your Business Activity

The first step is to choose a business activity that you want to undertake in DIAC. You can choose from a range of business activities allowed in the free zone, including both academic and non-academic.

Select a License Type and Trade Name

Choose the appropriate license based on your business activity. Also choose a trade name for your company and register it with the free zone authority.

Submit Your Application

Complete and submit the business setup application form. Provide all necessary documents including passport copies, business plan, and other relevant paperwork.

Get Initial Approval and Register Your Company

Once you get the initial approval from the free zone authority, complete the business registration process.

Open a Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum required capital according to your legal entity.

Office Lease

Sign the lease agreement for office space or shared flexi desks.

Receive Your License

Once all formalities are completed, receive your business license and commence operations.

Solutions FZCO is your trusted partner for setting up your business in Dubai International Academic City.

Our extensive local contacts and deep understanding of the regulatory environment enable us to expedite your business license and registration processes efficiently. We provide comprehensive support, from initial consultation to complete setup, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to helping your business succeed in one of the most dynamic and strategic free zones in the UAE

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Frequently Asked Questions

DIAC also known as Dubai International Academic City is the world’s largest free zone dedicated to academics and higher education.

Dubai Academic City has 27 colleges and universities, 3 innovation centers, and more than 500 academic programs.

Dubai International Academic City is located in Dubai, along the Dubai Al Ain Road.