Software Development Business License in UAE
The information technology industry in the UAE is experiencing significant growth, attracting numerous entrepreneurs interested in establishing their software development companies in the region. Both the Free Trade Zones and the mainland offer Software Company Licenses to IT and Software Development professionals.
Obtaining a Software Development Business License in the UAE is now more accessible than ever, with prices starting as low as AED 8,050 for a zero visa quota license. Global investors are particularly interested in acquiring the Software Company License due to the abundant opportunities in the digital and IT transformation sector in the UAE.
Depending on the specific business requirements, investors can choose from a wide range of business license types and activities available in the region.
How to Obtain a Software Development Business License in the UAE
The UAE has emerged as a prominent IT hub in the Middle East, attracting numerous multinational software companies to establish their subsidiaries in Dubai. These large IT companies have chosen the UAE as their headquarters to efficiently oversee and manage the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) as well as the Asian region. By obtaining a Software Company License in the UAE, these IT companies are legally empowered to engage in consulting, development, and the sale of IT services and products to other businesses, while also providing third-party support systems.
Acquiring a Software Development Business License in the UAE follows a process akin to obtaining any other business license. The UAE boasts specialized Free Trade Zones that issue licenses for various business activities, including Information Technology, Software Development, Application Testing, Research & Development, and more.
Key Factor Fueling the Growth of Software Development Companies in the UAE
The significant government support for information technology, artificial intelligence, and innovation has propelled the UAE to the forefront of technological advancements. With a perfect ecosystem for software development companies, the UAE offers abundant business opportunities and meets the growing demand from corporations in the region.
IT Market Growth in UAE
Driven by technology and innovation, the UAE is poised for substantial growth in IT spending. According to the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry Report, IT spending is projected to reach AED 23.1 billion by the end of 2019, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8%. Over the next five years, annual IT spending is expected to grow at around 7.2%.
The UAE’s increasing number of Free Trade Zones provides an array of cost-effective company setup packages tailored for the region’s software development companies. These Free Zones cater to the specific needs of entrepreneurs in various sectors, including information technology, software development, artificial intelligence, computer programming, and research & development.
Stay ahead of the curve and leverage the UAE’s thriving tech ecosystem for your business’s success.
Here is a list of Free Zones in the UAE that issue software development licenses.
There are several Free Trade Zones in the UAE that provide Software Development Licenses for business activities like IT, Software Development, and Web Programming. These Free Zones offer a wide range of opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to establish their IT or Software Development companies in the UAE.
One such zone is Dubai Silicon Oasis, which features a Digital Park that serves as a hub for IT and Software Development companies, driving innovation in the region.
1. Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis encompasses a network of Start-up Incubators, a Software Program Testing Centre, an Innovation hub, and a dedicated IT ecosystem, all built to bolster the growth of IT startups.
The Digital Park comprises eight office buildings, offering a range of flexible office spaces and staff accommodation, alongside smart services. This unique setup allows large IT organizations to leverage tailored office spaces and seamlessly expand their operations within the Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone.
2. Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus (DTEC)
Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus (DTEC) serves as an exceptional hub for software and information technology companies. With a diverse array of business setup packages tailored to meet the unique needs of entrepreneurs, DTEC offers a wide range of office options, from flexible desks to fully furnished office spaces spanning 12-50 sqm. This vibrant co-working space fosters collaboration and synergy, making it an ideal environment for software development companies and IT startups to thrive together.
3. International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) Dubai
The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA) in Dubai has partnered with the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority to offer affordable company setup solutions for entrepreneurs seeking to establish their presence in Dubai. This collaboration aims to provide an enticing opportunity for businesses looking to set up their base in the vibrant city of Dubai.
IFZA Dubai provides a range of tailored business activities for software development companies, including but not limited to:
- Software Program Development
- IT Consulting
- Software Programming
- Technology Equipment Sales
- IT Trade
- Network & Server Programming
- Web Programming & ECommerce
- and more.
IFZA Dubai stands out as a highly vibrant and rapidly expanding Free Zone in the region. It provides entrepreneurs with the necessary infrastructure and comprehensive business setup support to transform their dreams of establishing a business in Dubai into reality.
Benefits of IFZA Dubai
- Set up your IT company effortlessly in Dubai – Register your business within just 2 days!
- Foreign investors can enjoy the benefits of complete ownership (100%) and the freedom to repatriate profits to their home countries.
- No corporate or personal income tax
- No requirement of paid-up capital
- A robust business ecosystem encompasses various components such as incubators, investor funding, innovation hubs, trade shows, and a well-connected business network. This comprehensive infrastructure fosters entrepreneurial growth, facilitates collaboration, and fuels innovation within the industry.
- Investor visa for three years and settle in UAE with family
- Streamline your IT company’s operations with a hassle-free corporate bank account, ensuring smooth and efficient business transactions.
4. Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) Free Zone
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS) is a dynamic Free Zone in the UAE that offers an array of appealing company formation packages and a multitude of business benefits to investors. Entrepreneurs are provided with various office space options, ranging from shared desks (Flexi-desks) to shared offices and dedicated offices (9-50sqm fully furnished). The Free Zone’s robust ecosystem consists of media, IT, trading, and consultancy companies, creating a thriving IT and media hub in the region. SHAMS is an ideal destination for startups and new entrepreneurs looking to establish their businesses effortlessly. Begin your business journey in SHAMS with an investment as low as AED 8050 and choose from a wide range of business activities while enjoying world-class infrastructure. For more information on setting up a Software Development Company in the UAE, reach out to our expert Business Consultants immediately.
Our team will expertly guide you and tailor the perfect company formation package to suit your needs. Connect with us today!