Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)
Dubai Development Authority (DDA), Dubai
Description
Established in 2007, Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) is a dedicated free zone for higher education institutions. It hosts over 27 international universities and colleges, offering more than 500 academic programs to a diverse student body from over 150 nationalities.

Emirate | Dubai |
Website | https://diacedu.ae/ |
Contact Email | info@diacedu.ae |
Contact Info |
Phone: +971 4 360 2960
Address: Dubai International Academic City, Dubai, UAE
|
Year Established | 2007 |
License Types | Higher Education Provider License, Training Provider License, Freelance Permit |
License Cost | License fees vary based on the type of license and business activity. |
Formation Cost | Formation costs depend on the chosen license type, facility, and business activity. |
Minimum Capital Requirement | No specific minimum share capital requirement is specified; it may vary depending on the business activity and legal structure. |
Allowed Business Activities | Higher Education, Training and Development, Research and Development, Support Services |
Company Legal Structures | Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC), Branch of a Foreign Company, Branch of a UAE Company |
Allowed Activities | University Operations, Vocational Training, Educational Consultancy, Research Activities |
Restricted Activities | Activities requiring special approvals from UAE authorities |
Investor Visa Cost | Visa costs vary based on the investor's profile and specific requirements. |
Employee Visa Cost | Visa costs vary based on the employee's role and specific requirements. |
Processing Time (Days) | The company formation process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks to finalize, depending on documentation and approvals. |
Physical Office Required | Yes |
Office Space Options | Campus Facilities, Office Spaces, Student Accommodation |
Office Space Cost | Office space costs vary based on size, location, and facility specifications. |
Virtual Office Available | No |
Bank Account Assistance | Yes |
Bank Account Cost | Assistance is provided; costs may vary depending on the chosen bank. |
Partner Banks | Emirates NBD, Mashreq Bank, RAKBANK |
Governing Laws | Operates under UAE federal laws and Dubai regulations. |
VAT Registration Required | Yes |
Corporate Tax Applicable | No |
Annual Audit Required | Yes |
Renewal Fees | Annual renewal fees vary based on the type of license and business activity. |
Business Restrictions | Specific activities may require additional approvals. |
Ownership Structure | 100% foreign ownership |
Import/Export Restrictions | No Standard customs regulations apply; specific activities may require additional approvals. |
Benefits | 100% foreign ownership, Full repatriation of profits and capital, Exemption from personal and corporate taxes, No customs duties on goods and services, Access to a diverse student population, Comprehensive educational infrastructure, Proximity to other educational institutions fostering collaboration |
Drawbacks | Limited to educational and training-related activities |
Specific Compliance Requirements | Compliance with UAE federal laws and Dubai regulations, Adherence to educational standards set by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) |