Dubai Internet City & Media City (TECOM)
MENA's flagship clusters for technology (DIC) and media (DMC).
Overview
Dubai Internet City (DIC) and Dubai Media City (DMC) are flagship TECOM Group free zones forming the region's premier clusters for technology and media. DIC is the largest ICT hub in MENA; DMC hosts leading global media, broadcasting, advertising and creative companies. They're premium, community-driven zones for established tech and media businesses that value ecosystem, talent and brand prestige.
Key benefits
- 100% foreign ownership and tax-free profits on qualifying income
- Access to a world-class curated industry community (tech / media)
- Prestige address near multinationals and talent pools
- Strong ecosystem, events and knowledge-worker infrastructure
- Purpose-built offices and studios
- Part of the wider TECOM cluster network (Knowledge Park, Design District)
Business activities & licenses
DIC / DMC supports a range of license types and activities, including:
- Technology, ICT & software (DIC)
- Media, broadcasting & film production (DMC)
- Advertising, marketing & PR
- Publishing & digital media
- Creative services
Ownership & visas
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required.
Visa allocation is tied to leased office / workspace within the cluster; larger offices support larger quotas.
Cost & timeline
Dubai Media City from ~AED 13,000 (zero-visa); Dubai Internet City from ~AED 15,020, setup from ~AED 18,000. Workspace rental is a major cost driver.
~4–6 weeks (approvals and workspace-dependent).
Prices are indicative starting points, not quotes. Government and free-zone fees change frequently — we confirm current, all-in figures before you commit.
Is DIC / DMC right for you?
Established technology companies, software / ICT firms and media, creative and advertising businesses that want to be inside a curated cluster with global peers, talent and prestige.
What makes DIC / DMC different
- DIC is the largest ICT hub in MENA, hosting global tech leaders.
- DMC is home to hundreds of global media brands.
Compare alternatives
How DIC / DMC compares
| Free zone | Emirate | License from* | Typical timeline | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIC / DMC This page | Dubai | AED 13,000/yr | ~4–6 weeks (approvals and workspace-dependent) | Media · Advertising |
| IFZA → | Dubai | AED 12,900/yr | License in ~3–5 working days (fast-track available) | Consultants · E-commerce |
| Meydan → | Dubai | AED 12,500/yr | A few days to ~1 week (digital process) | Agencies · Consultants |
| DMCC → | Dubai | AED 20,000/yr | ~1–4 weeks depending on activity and workspace | Commodities · General trading |
* Indicative license-only starting points for budgeting — not quotes. Compare all 17 zones
DIC / DMC — frequently asked questions
01How much does it cost to set up in DIC / DMC?＋
Dubai Media City from ~AED 13,000 (zero-visa); Dubai Internet City from ~AED 15,020, setup from ~AED 18,000. Workspace rental is a major cost driver. These are indicative figures for budgeting — Incorporate Dubai will confirm current, all-in pricing for your activity and visa needs.
02Can I own 100% of my DIC / DMC company?＋
100% foreign ownership — no local sponsor required.
03How many visas can I get with DIC / DMC?＋
Visa allocation is tied to leased office / workspace within the cluster; larger offices support larger quotas.
04How long does DIC / DMC setup take?＋
~4–6 weeks (approvals and workspace-dependent). Timelines depend on document readiness, visa processing and bank onboarding.
05Who is DIC / DMC best for?＋
Established technology companies, software / ICT firms and media, creative and advertising businesses that want to be inside a curated cluster with global peers, talent and prestige.