Free Zone
Dubai Development Authority (DDA) Company Formation
Establish your business within Dubai Development Authority (DDA) regulated free zones, supporting companies across technology, media, education, design, science, healthcare, and professional services.
A government-regulated business ecosystem for knowledge-based industries and innovation.
100% Foreign Ownership
Government-Regulated Free Zone
Multiple Industry-Specific Business Districts
UAE Residence Visa Eligibility
About Dubai Development Authority (DDA)
Dubai Development Authority (DDA) is the government authority responsible for regulating a number of Dubai's specialised free zone business districts. Rather than being a single location, DDA oversees several industry-focused communities, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Production City, Dubai Outsource City, Dubai Design District (d3), and Dubai International Academic City. Companies are licensed according to the business cluster and the nature of their activities. DDA supports businesses operating in technology, education, media, healthcare, scientific research, consulting, engineering, creative industries, and other knowledge-based sectors. Companies established within DDA-regulated free zones benefit from 100% foreign ownership, internationally recognized business environments, modern office solutions, and eligibility to apply for UAE residence visas in accordance with applicable regulations. At The Corporate Bridge, we help clients identify the most appropriate DDA business district, obtain the correct license, complete company registration, manage immigration procedures, and provide ongoing corporate support.
Why Choose Dubai Development Authority (DDA)?
- 100% foreign ownership
- Ideal for knowledge-based industries
- Flexible office and commercial workspace options
- Established ecosystem for innovation and professional services
Business Activities
Dubai Development Authority licenses businesses across technology, software development, digital services, media, publishing, education, healthcare support, engineering, architecture, scientific research, design, consulting, marketing, professional services, and numerous other approved activities. Business activities are approved according to the relevant DDA business cluster. Certain regulated activities require approvals from the appropriate UAE authorities.
Business Activities List
Full list of approved activities
Enter your details to receive the list instantly.
License Types
Commercial License
Suitable for companies engaged in approved commercial trading, distribution, software products, technology solutions, publishing, and related commercial activities.
Professional License
Designed for consultancy firms and businesses providing engineering, management, legal support, education, healthcare support, IT, marketing, architecture, accounting, and other approved professional services.
Media and Creative License
Suitable for businesses involved in broadcasting, publishing, advertising, content creation, film production, animation, digital media, photography, design, and other creative industries.
Technology and Innovation License
Designed for software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, fintech support services, scientific research, and other innovation-focused businesses.
Packages
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Establish your business in DIFC, the Middle East's leading international financial center, offering an independent legal system, 100% foreign ownership, and a globally recognized business environment.
AED 50,000
All Inclusive
JAFZA Business Setup
Price Starting from AED 35,000 Number of Visas: Depends on Facility Establish your business in JAFZA, the Middle East's leading logistics and trade free zone, with 100% foreign ownership, world-class infrastructure, and direct access to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum International Airport.
AED 35,000
All Inclusive
IFZA Business Setup Promotional Package
Start your Dubai business with our all-inclusive IFZA Promotional Package for only AED 18,000. Includes business license, investor visa, Emirates ID, establishment card, corporate bank account assistance, tax registration, business address, and dedicated account manager.
AED 18,000
All Inclusive
Prices exclude government fees and third-party costs. *Terms and conditions apply.
Required Documents
- Passport copy of each shareholder
- Passport-size photograph
- Proposed company name
- Business activity details
- Emirates ID and UAE visa copy (if applicable)
Setup Process in 5 Steps
Business Consultation
Trade Name & Initial Approval
Document Preparation
Licence Processing & Registration
Immigration & Visa Services
FAQs
Dubai Development Authority (DDA) is the government authority responsible for regulating several specialized free zone business districts in Dubai, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Studio City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Science Park, Dubai Design District (d3), and other knowledge-based business communities.
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Disclaimer: All prices shown are indicative starting estimates and may vary depending on the selected business activity, jurisdiction, authority fees, visa quota, office requirements, and government charges applicable at the time of application. Final quotations are shared after a consultation and are subject to change without prior notice.