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Set Up Your Company in

Dubai Design District

Dubai Design District, or D3, is the UAE's creative center focused on advancing the design sector and establishing Dubai as a global design capital. Located in central Dubai near notable landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, D3 spans more than 4 million square feet. It hosts over 500 businesses, featuring renowned design studios, showrooms, galleries, and prestigious fashion brands such as Dior, Adidas, Nike, and Foster + Partners.

Dubai Design Week

Dubai Design Week, held annually in D3, is the region's premier creative festival that highlights architecture, fashion, product design, and graphic design. The event typically features exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and various activities. As one of the UAE's most significant events, Dubai Design Week attracts designers, artists, and creative professionals from across the globe.

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Advantages of Setting Up Your Business 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

D3 is a smart zone hub that incorporates various advanced technologies, including smart parking meters, smart energy meters, and smart waste management systems, among others.

Proximity to World-Renowned Landmarks

Dubai Design District is situated near Dubai Mall, the UAE's largest shopping center, which attracts 65 million visitors annually. It is also close to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Internet City clusters, DIFC, and Dubai's Business Bay.

Low-Cost Company Setup

Establishing a company in Dubai Design District is relatively affordable. The cost of a license and the minimum share capital required are both accessible compared to other locations.

World-Class Recognition

Each year, Dubai Design Week offers designers and artists the opportunity to present their work to internationally acclaimed designers.

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 an
in Dubai Design District

Nearly all types of business activities are allowed within the free zone. Typically, DMCC offers three main types of licenses:

Manufacturing License

Permits companies to carry out manufacturing, processing, or assembly activities within D3.

Commercial License

Designed for businesses providing particular goods and services within D3.

Service License

Enables businesses to offer services, such as repair and maintenance, 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)
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Business Structures
in Dubai Design District

Dubai Design District offers two types of legal company structures along with a special freelancer permit:
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D3 FZ-LLC
A Free Zone LLC is a legal entity established under the Dubai Design District free zone jurisdiction. Like other LLCs, FZ-LLCs are distinct from their owners and provide limited liability protection to their shareholders.
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Freelance Permit
As a global creative hub, designers and artists can offer services under their own name through a special permit.
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Branch Company
A Branch Company set up in Dubai Design District acts as a representative of an existing company located outside D3 or the UAE. Branch Companies may have names different from those of their parent companies.
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Steps in Setting Up Your Business in

Dubai Design District
Starting a company in D3 is quick and straightforward. Typically, the process involves five steps:
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1

Select a Business Activity and Location

Before starting, you need to choose one of the approved business activities allowed in Dubai Design District. Companies in D3 can choose to operate in the Free Zone, on the mainland, or both.
2

Submit Application

Businesses need to complete the online application and provide business plans and passports for all shareholders. Masar Al Ameen Business Setup can support you throughout this process to facilitate quicker and more cost-effective company incorporation.
3

Secure Physical Space

Companies within the Dubai Design District jurisdiction are required to secure office space or a warehousing facility for their business operations. However, freelancers may be exempt from this requirement.
4

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.
5

Open a Bank Account

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed with opening a corporate bank account. This account will handle all of your company’s financial transactions while operating within the Dubai Design District jurisdiction.
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