Dubai free zone, DIAC
Set up your company in Dubai International Academic City Free Zone
Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) is the world's largest free zone dedicated to higher education. Established in 2007 by TECOM Group, it has grown into one of the largest education hubs on earth, with 27 colleges and universities, three innovation centres, and more than 27,500 students from 150-plus nationalities across 500-plus programmes.
- 100% foreign ownership
- World's largest education free zone
- 27 universities & colleges
- 27,500+ students
Why DIAC
The world's home for higher education.
DIAC is purpose-built for education, bringing internationally accredited universities, colleges and training providers together in one community, with the students, talent and infrastructure that come with it.
100% ownership
Own your education business outright, with no local partner.
Education network
27 universities and colleges and 3 innovation centres in one hub.
Built-in talent pool
27,500+ students from 150+ nationalities on your doorstep.
Tax advantages
Free zone tax treatment with no personal income tax.
Full repatriation
Move 100% of your capital and profits with no currency limits.
Global reputation
An internationally recognised home for accredited education.
What you can run
Made for education and training.
DIAC is dedicated to higher education and the businesses that support it. These are the activities it suits best.
Universities & colleges
Branch campuses and higher-education institutions.
Training institutes
Professional training and continuing-education providers.
EdTech
E-learning platforms and education technology ventures.
Innovation centres
Research, incubation and innovation in education.
Education services
Student services, recruitment and support businesses.
Consultancy
Education consultancy and accreditation advisory.
Education activities often need approvals from the relevant authorities. We confirm the right route and approvals before you commit.
What it costs
Dubai Academic City setup cost.
DIAC cost depends on your activity, facility and visas, and education activities can need additional approvals. These are the parts that make up the figure.
License and registration
Initial approval, name reservation and the DIAC license fee.
Facility
Office, classroom or campus space within the education hub.
Visas and immigration
Establishment card and each residence visa for your team.
Education approvals
Accreditation and approvals for education and training activities.
How we help
From activity to open for business.
- 01
Plan your activity
We confirm your education activity and the approvals you will need.
- 02
We file with DIAC
Name approval, application and your DIAC paperwork, handled.
- 03
Facility and license
We secure your space and issue the license with any approvals.
- 04
Visas and bank
We assist with residence visas and corporate banking introductions once your company is established.
Why FZM
Dedicated Senior advisory.
You will work directly with a Dedicated Senior advisor from day one. Your advisor will assess your requirements, identify the most suitable jurisdictions, manage the entire application process, and remain your long-term point of contact for ongoing guidance and support.
- 27
- Universities & colleges
- 27,500+
- Students in DIAC
- 1,500+
- Companies formed
- 15+
- Years in the UAE
Keep exploring
More on setting up in Dubai.
Good to know
DIAC questions, answered.
- What is Dubai International Academic City (DIAC)?
- DIAC is the world's largest free zone dedicated to higher education, established in 2007 by TECOM Group. It is home to 27 colleges and universities, three innovation centres, and more than 27,500 students from over 150 nationalities studying across 500-plus programmes. It is the place to base a university, college, training institute or education business in Dubai.
- What kinds of businesses can set up in DIAC?
- DIAC is dedicated to education, so it suits universities and college branch campuses, training institutes, edtech and e-learning ventures, innovation and research centres, student and education services, and education consultancies. We confirm your exact activity and any approvals before you apply.
- How much does it cost to set up in DIAC?
- DIAC cost depends on your activity, facility and visas, and education activities often need additional accreditation and approvals. The main components are the license and registration, your facility, visas and immigration, and education approvals. We confirm an all-in quote based on your needs before you commit.
- Do education activities need special approvals?
- Yes. Education and training activities usually require accreditation and approvals from the relevant authorities, in addition to the free zone license. We guide you through which approvals apply to your activity and handle the paperwork.
- Do I get 100% ownership in DIAC?
- Yes. A DIAC free zone entity gives you 100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor, full repatriation of capital and profits, no currency restrictions and free zone tax treatment.
Maha BadrHighly recommended. A professional team, prompt on every detailed query and seamless on every requirement, trade license, corporate tax, bank account, residence ID, medical.
Largo HomeSimply impeccable. They didn't just meet deadlines, they anticipated them, with quick and effective solutions even in complex situations.
Maciej KolodziejczykVery efficient. Company formation, employment contract, residency visa, and all the prerequisites handled. Friendly and professional throughout.
Ready to incorporate
One advisor.From company formation to corporate banking.
A 30-minute consultation is all it takes to receive a tailored proposal, a transparent quotation, and a written roadmap delivered the same day. You will deal directly with an experienced advisor throughout the process.
- Response instantly
- Five languages spoken
- Independent. Not a license reseller.