Business Setup
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) Company Formation
Establish your educational institution or academic support business in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), the region's leading higher education ecosystem for universities, colleges, research organizations, and education service providers.
A dedicated destination for higher education and academic excellence.
Higher Education Hub
International University Ecosystem
Purpose-Built Academic Campus
100% Foreign Ownership
About Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), a member of TECOM Group, is a specialised education free zone dedicated to higher education institutions and academic organisations. DIAC is home to a diverse community of international universities, colleges, academic institutions, research organisations, and education support businesses, creating one of the region's largest higher education ecosystems. Purpose-built for the education sector, DIAC offers commercial offices, academic campuses, classrooms, and purpose-designed facilities that support teaching, research, innovation, and student services. In addition to universities and colleges, DIAC welcomes approved businesses providing educational technology, academic consultancy, student support, research services, and other education-related activities, subject to the applicable regulations. At The Corporate Bridge, we assist investors with company formation, license applications, business registration, immigration services, and ongoing corporate support for eligible businesses establishing operations within Dubai International Academic City.
Why Choose Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)?
- Dedicated higher education free zone.
- Home to international universities and colleges.
- Purpose-built academic campuses and facilities.
- Supports education and research organizations.
- 100% foreign ownership.
Business Activities
Dubai International Academic City supports approved activities across higher education, universities, colleges, vocational education, academic consultancy, educational technology (EdTech), research organizations, student services, educational publishing, language education, and other approved education-related professional services. Certain education activities require approvals from the relevant authorities before operations may commence.
Business Activities List
Full list of approved activities
Enter your details to receive the list instantly.
License Types
Education License
For universities, colleges, higher education providers, vocational institutions, and approved academic organizations.
Professional License
For educational consultancy, research organizations, academic advisory services, student support services, and other approved professional activities.
Service License
For education technology providers, digital learning platforms, academic administration, examination services, and approved education support businesses.
Commercial License
For approved publishing, educational materials, academic resources, and authorized commercial activities related to the education sector.
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 International Academic City is a specialized free zone dedicated to higher education. It is home to international universities, colleges, academic institutions, and education-focused organizations operating within a purpose-built academic environment.
Need Help? Contact Us
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.