Software development licence in the UAE

Custom software, mobile applications and SaaS products. Straightforward to license in any zone offering a service or technology licence. SaaS billing international customers is one of the cleanest fits for a low-cost UAE structure.

What to know first

Processing UAE personal data engages local data protection requirements.
Payment processing features may require financial authorisation.
Gaming and gambling applications are prohibited or heavily restricted.

Suitable free zones

DIC

Dubai

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

From: AED 28,000
Setup: 10–25 d
Max visas: ∞

IFZA

Dubai

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

From: AED 12,900
Setup: 2–5 d
Max visas: 6

100% remote setup

SHAMS

Sharjah

The cheapest credible route to a UAE licence — and the one most freelancers actually need.

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

100% remote setup

DSO

Dubai

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

From: AED 18,500
Setup: 5–15 d
Max visas: ∞

100% remote setup

Let's talk about your actual case

A twenty-minute call. We will also tell you if the UAE is the wrong answer for you — it often is.

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WhatsApp · hello@plug2uae.com