DIFC Innovation License for Startups

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the fastest growing financial center in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region and has been dedicated to the economic excellence of the nation by promoting technological innovation and providing a conducive and enabling environment to the technology and financial services industries.

DIFC, acting as the harbinger of economic prosperity in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region as the largest financial free zone has recently announced a new license for startups called Innovation License when the DIFC corporate startup license holders under this scheme will join the communities of more than 200 technology companies, 2000 plus firms with more than 25000 professionals.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai originally announced this Innovation license during early 2020 to attract new categories of businesses to the financial center as a key initiative of Dubai Future District with a provision of subsidized commercial licensing option for USD 1500 per annum minimum.

Innovative and creative business entities will be able to grow and expand their business utilizing the legal and regulatory framework of DIFC complemented by world-class intellectual property and data protection rights.

“The new DIFC Innovation License provides an important springboard for future economy pioneers to establish, upscale, and future proof their business within the stable framework of a world-leading global financial center,” added Salmon Jaffery, Chief Business Development Officer, DIFC.

Salmon Jaffery also highlighted, “It is an exciting new offering that we hope will attract technology-led, sector agnostic start-ups that will disrupt the technology and financial sectors. These types of businesses have an important role in shaping the economic future of Dubai, UAE and the region. They will be welcomed by members of DIFC’s ecosystem and become a central part of the new Dubai Future District.”

Officially launched in August 2020, the initiative has already started witnessing new startups and entrepreneurs opt for Innovation license and in the applicable areas of IT infrastructure, Software Development, Internet and cloud migration consultancy, Smart Technology, R&D, and computer consultancy

Besides offering co-working spaces at an affordable rate of USD 500 per month, DIFC provides numerous benefits to Innovation License holders including a registration fee of USD 100, USD 250 data protection fee; securing up to 4 visas when renting flexible desk space, and 50 percent subsidy on additional visas.

IMC is a Dubai-based PRO services company with a team of highly qualified and result-oriented professionals and is well conversant with the local laws and regulations. In addition to rendering our round-the-clock active support in the entire licensing and registration process, we will also help you in identifying the most suitable business activities that can result in a high level of success under this new DIFC Innovation Licensing scheme.