Set Up Your Company in
Dubai Design District
Dubai Design District, commonly known as D3, is the UAE’s creative hub dedicated to developing the design industry and promoting the city as a global design capital. D3 is situated in the heart of Dubai, close to iconic landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. The district covers an area of over 4 million square feet and is home to over 500 businesses, including world-renowned design studios, showrooms, galleries, and fashion brands, including Dior, Adidas, Nike, and Foster + Partners.
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Advantages of Setting Up Your Business
in Dubai Design District
in Dubai Design District
Aside from being a design capital, companies can also benefit from the numerous incentives D3 provides to entrepreneurs:
Modern and Advanced Infrastructures
Proximity to World-Renowned Landmarks
Low-Cost Company Setup
World-Class Recognition
Legal Framework
- Company ownership
- No restrictions on capital repatriation
- No currency restrictions
- No personal income tax
- No restrictions for foreign employees
- Only 9% corporate income tax (if applicable)
- Low tariff rates
- Special freelance permit for designers and artists
Types of Licenses Offered
in Dubai Design District
in Dubai Design District
Here are the three types of business licenses offered in Dubai Design District
Manufacturing License
Allows companies to engage in manufacturing, processing or assembling activities within D3.
Commercial License
Commercial License
Intended for businesses offering specific goods and services within D3.
Service License
Allows businesses to provide services (e.g. repair and maintenance services) within D3.
General Documents Required for
Company Setup in Dubai Design District
- Company registration and licensing application form
- Profile details of shareholder(s)
- Passport copies and specimen signature of each director and general manager
- Board resolution
- Detailed business plan
- Proof of share capital requirement
- Original Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA)
Steps in Setting Up Your Business in Dubai Design District
Starting a company in D3 is fast and easy. Generally, this includes five steps:
-
Select a Business Activity and Location
Before you start, you must select one of the approved business activities permitted in Dubai Design District. Companies in D3 have the option to select where they want to conduct business – from the Free Zone to the mainland or both. -
Submit Application
Businesses must complete the online application and submit business plans and passports for all shareholders. Golden Business Zone can assist you throughout this process to ensure faster, less-expensive company incorporation. -
Secure Physical Space
Companies operating within the Dubai Design District jurisdiction must secure office space or a warehousing facility dedicated to their business. Freelancers may be exempted from this requirement. -
Apply for Trade License
After securing an office space, companies will need to apply for the appropriate trade license through the Dubai Design District. Depending on the nature of the products and services offered, companies may be required to apply for multiple trade licenses. -
Open a Bank Account
After obtaining all the relevant documents, you can now proceed in opening a corporate bank account. This is where all the financial transactions of your company will be made while operating under the jurisdiction of Dubai Design District.
