Set Up a Company in Dubai Design District
Region's first and largest design district dedicated to art, design, and fashion. Home to global brands and local creatives.
Dubai Design District
TECOM Group
- Business Bay, Dubai, Dubai
- Regulated by TECOM Group
- Established 2013
- Official website
Best for:
Why Choose d3?
Dubai Design District (d3) is the Middle East's first and largest creative hub dedicated to design, fashion, and art. Part of TECOM Group, d3 hosts global fashion brands, design studios, galleries, and creative agencies. The district is the epicentre of Dubai's creative economy.
Creative Hub
Region's premier destination for design, fashion, and art businesses.
Global Brands
Home to international fashion houses and design studios.
Inspiring Environment
Purpose-built creative district with galleries and studios.
Freelancer Permits
Individual freelancer permits available for creatives.
Events & Exhibitions
Regular design weeks, fashion shows, and art exhibitions.
TECOM Ecosystem
Access to TECOM's creative community and facilities.
Important: What d3 companies cannot do
- Limited to design and creative activities
- Higher cost than general free zones
- May not suit non-creative businesses
d3 Setup Costs — 2026 Pricing
Prices shown are indicative of 2026 market rates. Exact costs depend on your chosen activities, visa quota, and office package. Get an exact quote →
Year 1 total: ~AED 35,000+ |Annual renewal: From AED 22,750. Year 2 onwards is typically 30–40% less as registration fees are one-off.
How to Register a Company in d3
Choose Your Activities
Select up to 1-3 business activities from d3's approved list.
Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a unique company name following UAE naming rules. Must include FZE or FZCO suffix.
Submit Documents
Passport copy, photo, proof of address. Can be processed 100% remotely.
Receive Initial Approval
d3 reviews your application. Initial approval typically takes 5 business days.
Pay & Receive Your Licence
After payment, your trade licence is issued within 5-14 working days.
Apply for Visas
With your licence, apply for UAE residence visas. Process takes 3-5 weeks with in-person medical and biometrics.
UAE Residence Visas Through d3
Visa Quota
With a d3 licence you can sponsor up to 50 residence visas depending on your office package. Flexi desk packages typically allow 1 visas.
Visa Cost
Each UAE residence visa through d3 costs approximately AED 4,000 – 6,000 including entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees.
Visa Validity
UAE free zone residence visas are valid for 2–3 years and can be renewed. Your visa is tied to your company — if the licence lapses, visas must be renewed or cancelled.