DIFC is home to the first and largest technology accelerator in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. It is the only place to be if you are an AR/VR, AI/ML, Gaming, Web 3.0, MarTech, FinTech, InsurTech, RegTech, GreenTech, EdTech or Islamic FinTech start-up looking to capitalise on unlimited opportunities in front of the region's most established financial service organisations.
If you want to grow your start-up and further FinTech innovation, DIFC has everything you need, including accelerator programmes, licencing, coworking support, a community of like-minded individuals, and a supportive and comprehensive regulatory framework.
Accelerate your tech start-up
DIFC’s coworking spaces offer more than just a working environment. The spaces are closely affiliated with DIFC Innovation Hub. This is the largest innovation community in the region, supporting growth-stage tech firms, established innovation companies, digital labs, venture capital firms, regulators, and educational entities.
Join our dynamic
community
About DIFC
World-class business and lifestyle destination
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. DIFC has a close to 20-year track record of facilitating trade and investment flows across MEASA.
The region comprises 72 countries with a combined population of around three billion people and a nominal GDP of approximately USD 8trn. The Centre connects the fast-growing markets of the MEASA region with the economies of Asia, Europe, and the Americas through Dubai.
DIFC as a business destination
Establish your technology equipped innovation start-up in DIFC to unlock numerous advantages designed to foster growth and innovation. Benefit from a supportive environment and strategic location, setting the stage for global success.
Enjoy 100% complete business ownership
Independent regulatory environment that ensures flexibility and compliance
Today you can set-up your business efficiently in just three simple steps
Extensive local and international network for expanded opportunities
Why you need the DIFC innovation licence?
The DIFC innovation licence is a commercial licence with a subsidised fee structure open to all technology and innovation firms, enabling growth at any stage. This licence caters to firms interested in developing or testing new, novel, or innovative products. We welcome start-ups, growth-stage firms and unicorns.
By taking advantage of this offer, companies can benefit from:
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Highly subsidised commercial licence cost.
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Mentorship and assistance in building out a product/service and fundraising.
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50% subsidised flexi desks, visas and much more.
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Up to 2 visas on the first desk with up to 50% discount on visa fee.
Also, get additional support from our team to help you establish and operate your business seamlessly.
Attractive pricing
AI & Innovation Licence
USD 1,500
ONE TIME
Coworking Space
USD 250
PER MONTH/ BILLED ANNUALLY
Data Protection
USD 0
WAIVED OFF
Registration Fee
USD 100
ONE TIME
Eligible Start-ups: AI/ML - AR/VR - Gaming - MarTech AgriTech - PropTech - FinTech - HealthTech - GreenTech - EdTech - CloudTech
*This offer is only eligible to be used by new registrants.
DIFC growth facts
Testimonials from our start-up clients
Some of the start-ups at DIFC
Please complete the fields below and we will be in touch to help you set up and get started in DIFC
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1. Who can apply for the DIFC innovation licence?The DIFC innovation licence is offered to a wider ecosystem of technology enablers, catering to Technology/ Innovation firms interested in developing or testing new, novel or innovative products. Be it AI, Web 3.0, FinTech, GreenTech or any other tech equipped startup, DIFC welcomes you to apply for the innovation licence at a 90% subsidised rate.
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2. Does AI or Web 3.0 fall under innovation licence?Yes, however, we have distinct licencing options for startups based AI or Web 3.0. Our team will assist you in detail once you register for the innovation licence.
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3. What kind of support is included with the innovation licence?The innovation licence includes comprehensive support, including technical assistance, mentorship, and access to industry experts. Our team is dedicated to helping you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.
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4. Do I need to be physically present to apply for the licence?No, the DIFC client on-boarding system is fully digital, and the process is done online. However, once the licence is obtained, you will be allowed to operate from the DIFC innovation hub premises.
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5. What is the timeline of setting up in the DIFC?The process comes in two stages. The first stage is to obtain the in-principle approval from the registration review committee, which can take around 5-7 working days.
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6. How long is the subsidised innovation licence valid for?The licence is subsidised for a period of 2 years. At a rate of USD 1,500 per annum. Starting from the third year, the subsidised rate will depend on your number of FTEs. If it exceeds 10 FTEs, then the rate is USD 12,000 per annum.
Disclaimer:
DIFC is committed to preserving your privacy in line with applicable data protection laws, including DIFC Law No 5 of 2020 ("DP Law 2020"). As such, we provide this notice to help you understand how we process your personal data and most importantly, your rights to access and control our use of it. We encourage you to review the DIFC Online Privacy Policy , which includes information about how to contact our DPO, what type of personal data we process, and retention and safeguards in place to protect personal data. Per our Privacy Policy, if you permit DIFC to keep your personal data, we will not share it with third parties unless you tell us we may do so.