The Dubai Design District Free Zone
What is Dubai’s Design District?
The Dubai Design District (D3) is one of the UAE's first and largest design districts. It's an innovative space where the best elements of design, art, and fashion come together and an enticing location for entrepreneurs who want to take advantage of a thriving ecosystem. Businesses operating in the D3 can take advantage of:
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- 0% Income Tax
- No Currency Restrictions
- 0% Corporate Tax
- Special Licensing for Freelancers
- Full Repatriation of Profits
- Strategic Location Near Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, and Burj Khalifa
With over a decade of experience, MSZ Consultancy can help you start your business in the Dubai Design District and guide you through the process, from initial applications to annual renewals. If you're interested in a business setup in a free zone at the forefront of design and art in the Middle East, Dubai's Design District might be right for you.
How to Start Your Business in D3
Businesses that operate in this free zone typically fall under one of several license types:
Professional License
A professional business license is for individuals in service-based businesses, such as design, consulting, marketing, and other knowledge-based companies.
Industrial License
An industrial license covers businesses that are involved in manufacturing, the refinement of raw materials, and construction-based businesses.
Commercial and General Trading
This license type is for retail-based companies that buy and sell goods like fashion, art, and electronics.
Freelance Permit
A freelance license is an option for those who want to remain independent and operate under their name. It's a go-to choice for fashion stylists, photographers, graphic designers, and artistic professionals.
Choose Your Legal Structure
Businesses operating in Dubai's Design District free zone will typically fall under one of several legal structures:
An LLC is a typical legal structure that limits shareholder risk to that of the initial investment amount, making it an excellent option for businesses that want to operate without tons of legal liabilities.
A freelance permit allows individuals to conduct business without needing a larger legal entity and is a solid choice for first-time entrepreneurs.
A branch is a business structure where a company operates under the banner of a larger corporation.
Gather Documents and Submit Application
Your next step will be to gather all the required documentation and submit your completed licensing application.
Pay Fees and Receive License
After waiting an appropriate amount of time for processing, pay any remaining fees and collect your license.
Obtain Office Space
You'll want to secure office space for yourself and any prospective employees. This can be single office spaces, multi-unit spaces, and even warehouses.
Open a Bank Account
You'll need access to a corporate bank account to conduct business in the UAE. These institutions can help you process payments, exchange currencies, and stay atop changing regulations.
Required Documents for Business Setup in Dubai's Design District
When submitting your licensing application, you'll need to include the following documents:
- Company Registration
- Copies of Passport for Directors and Managers
- Copies of Passport for Shareholders
- Detailed Business Plan
- Board Resolution for Creating a Free Zone Company
- Proof of Share Capital
- Memorandum of Association
Failure to include these documents could result in significant approval delays or outright rejection of your licensing application.
Businesses Permitted in Dubai Design District
The D3 free zone is home to a wide range of business types, including:
Fashion
The Dubai Design District supports a wide range of designers in the fashion industry, from luxury brands to showrooms and production spaces.
Design
D3 is a destination for businesses interested in design, architecture, and urban planning. Companies here can collaborate and network to bring modern ideas to life.
Digital Media and Marketing
D3's modern infrastructure and supportive network make it an excellent place for those specializing in marketing, social media strategy, animation, and film production.
Art
From art galleries to studios and cultural works, Dubai's Design District is made for honing talent of all shapes and sizes.
Experience
MSZ Consultancy Can Help You Set Up Your Business in the D3
With 12 years of expertise in UAE business formation, MSZ Consultancy is proud to be a trusted name for investors, entrepreneurs, and savvy business owners who want to maximize their potential. Our consultants can work closely with you to guide you through the business startup process, from initial applications to regular renewals and beyond.
We can help with licensing, visa applications, securing a bank account, PRO services, etc.
It doesn't matter whether you're a single investor or opening up a new branch of an established company; we have the skills to help you navigate business in the UAE. Call our experts today at +971 52 544 1248 for a FREE consultation, and find out how we can put your business ahead in Dubai's Design District.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you have a question about starting a company in the UAE? We’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about what you can expect:
Dubai's Design District is home to a wide range of creative industries, including art, fashion, design, media, and technology, making it a solid option for investors interested in creative arts.
D3 is home to numerous businesses, including design studios, marketing agencies, art galleries, consultancies, and tech startups.
In Dubai's Design District, you can choose between professional, commercial, industrial, general trading, and freelancer licenses.
Yes, you can control 100% of your company without UAE sponsorship.
Yes. To start your business in D3, you must lease a physical office space. This can be a single office space, a multi-unit option, or a warehouse space.
In most cases, the licensing process can take between 7 and 10 working days, depending on the business type.