IT services licence in the UAE

Software development, IT consulting, systems integration and managed services. Available from almost every zone; the technology clusters add ecosystem value but charge for it. For a development agency invoicing European or American clients, a low-cost zone is functionally identical.

What to know first

Handling UAE personal data engages the UAE data protection law and may require local hosting.
Telecoms and VoIP services are separately regulated by the TDRA.
Fintech software touching payments may require central bank or financial-centre authorisation.

Suitable free zones

DIC

Dubai

The region's established tech cluster — Microsoft, Google, Meta and the startups around them.

Est. from: ≈ AED 28,000
Setup: 10–25 d
Max visas: ∞

DSO

Dubai

A self-contained tech park with housing, schools and offices — now part of DIEZ.

Est. from: ≈ AED 18,500
Setup: 5–15 d
Max visas: ∞

100% remote setup

IFZA

Dubai

The default choice for consultants and small trading companies that want speed and a low entry price.

Est. from: ≈ AED 12,900
Setup: 2–5 d
Max visas: 6

100% remote setup

SHAMS

Sharjah

A low-cost, credible route to a UAE licence, and a natural fit for freelancers.

From: AED 5,760
Setup: 1–4 d
Max visas: 6

100% remote setup

SRTIP

Sharjah

R&D, advanced manufacturing and university-linked innovation.

From: AED 5,500
Setup: 7–20 d
Max visas: ∞

100% remote setup

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