Dubai’s IT sector is booming, fuelled by a dynamic mix of local startups, global tech giants, and supportive government initiatives. As the city continues to transform into a global technology hub, major IT companies are taking advantage of these opportunities, setting up their operations, and contributing to this exponential growth.
So, if you have ever thought about starting an IT company, we are here to walk you through Dubai’s vibrant tech scene and the key players driving its success. We’ll guide you on setting up your own IT company in this thriving market. By reading this, you’ll gain valuable insights into the opportunities, challenges, and regulatory landscape of Dubai’s IT industry. Whether you’re an aspiring tech entrepreneur or an established IT firm considering expansion into Dubai, this article provides the critical insights you need to navigate and succeed in this dynamic tech landscape.
Overview Of The IT Industry In UAE
The IT industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is steadily growing, positioning it as a global hub for technology and innovation. The UAE’s commitment to digital transformation, along with its robust IT infrastructure, has made it a go-to destination for IT companies worldwide.
How Many IT Companies Are There In The UAE?
As of September 2023, the UAE is home to 724 software companies. This number speaks volumes about the country’s thriving IT landscape, which is marked by a strong focus on innovation and technology-driven solutions. The UAE’s IT industry is diverse, with both local and international players contributing to its growth. These companies offer a wide range of services, from web development and software development to digital marketing and more.
Main Cities In UAE For IT Companies
Dubai stands out as the central city for IT companies in the UAE, accounting for 46% of the country’s total licensed businesses. The city has become a major hub for technology companies, with its revenue from IT companies estimated at around $6 billion in 2019. This represents a growth of 12.5% compared to the previous year.
Dubai’s thriving tech industry has attracted talent worldwide, making it a diverse and dynamic hub for IT professionals. The city offers a favourable business environment, tax incentives, and a strong support system for entrepreneurs and startups.
In addition to Dubai, other cities in the UAE, such as Abu Dhabi, also host a significant number of IT companies. These cities have invested heavily in infrastructure and initiatives to support the growth of the IT industry, including establishing free zones and innovation hubs.
Growth Of The IT Sector In UAE
The IT sector in the UAE has seen significant growth in recent years. From December 2019 to July 2022, the total number of registered active business licenses increased by 1.9%. This growth is driven by factors such as digital transformation, increased adoption of emerging technologies, and the government’s focus on innovation and technology-driven solutions.
The UAE government has played a key role in driving the growth of the tech industry through initiatives like the Dubai Smart City project. This project aims to transform Dubai into a Smart City by leveraging technology and innovation. The UAE’s commitment to developing a competitive knowledge economy and a free, effective, efficient, and internationally integrated business environment has also contributed to the growth of the IT sector.
However, starting an IT company in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, requires careful planning and adherence to the city’s legal and regulatory requirements. This includes formal accounting and auditing processes, as well as compliance with tax regulations. From June 2023, a 9% corporate tax will be levied on companies generating more than USD 102,110 (AED 375,000) net profit per year. This means that businesses, especially those in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) category, will need to strengthen their accounting, auditing, and tax compliance practices.
Looking ahead, the UAE’s IT industry is expected to continue its growth trajectory. The country is projected to become a global tech giant by 2025, with the UAE ICT Market expected to register a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period. This growth is expected to be driven by the UAE’s technological leadership, high GDP per capita, and the government’s ongoing commitment to innovation and digital transformation.
Major IT Companies In The UAE
The tech ecosystem in Dubai is enriched by the presence of several global IT corporations. This vibrant mix of tech startups, multinational corporations, and government initiatives has created a fertile ground for innovation and digital transformation.
Apple
Apple, a global leader in innovation, has a significant presence in Dubai. The company not only brings its advanced technology to the region but also collaborates with local entities to stimulate digital transformation and economic growth.
Google, another global IT giant, has a substantial footprint in Dubai. The company’s diverse services and solutions, including cloud computing, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and the IoT (Internet of Things), play a pivotal role in shaping the city’s tech industry.
Amazon
Amazon, with its extensive range of IT solutions and services, is another key player in Dubai’s tech landscape. The company’s presence in the city facilitates collaboration with local entities, stimulating digital transformation and economic growth.
IBM
IBM, a trailblazer in the IT industry, also has a substantial footprint in Dubai. The company’s innovative products, services, and solutions contribute to the city’s tech industry.
Microsoft
Microsoft, another global IT corporation, has a significant presence in Dubai. The company’s diverse products and services contribute to the city’s tech industry, and its presence facilitates collaboration with local entities.
How Do You Set Up An IT Company In Dubai?
The process of establishing an IT firm in Dubai involves several crucial steps. Initially, you need to select the geographical area for your business. The city provides two primary choices: mainland and free zones. The former allows you to operate within and beyond the UAE, while the latter are specialised economic regions offering full ownership to foreign entrepreneurs, tax advantages, and unrestricted profit repatriation. Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Techno Park, and Dubai Internet City are among the preferred free zones for IT firms.
Once the location is chosen, you need to determine the legal structure of your company. This could be a Free Zone LLC or a Free Zone Company, based on factors such as shareholder count and business nature. Subsequently, you must register the company with the appropriate authorities and obtain a licence. The nature of your IT business determines the licence type. Dubai offers three primary business licences: Commercial Licence, Industrial Licence, and Professional Licence.
Establishing an IT firm in Dubai also necessitates fulfilling other legal obligations. These include:
- Drafting a business plan
- Obtaining a Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Obtaining a certificate of incorporation
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- A registration certificate
- Obtaining a commercial licence
- An office space lease agreement
- Visas and residency permits
- Opening a bank account
It’s important to note that the cost of starting a business in Dubai can fluctuate based on factors such as licence type, location, and other requirements. Therefore, consulting with a business setup service provider for precise cost estimates and guidance throughout the process is advisable.
The city’s tech industry is characterised by a strong emphasis on innovation and technology-driven solutions. The government’s initiatives, like the Dubai Smart City project, aim to transform the city into a global hub for smart technology. The presence of major IT companies in Dubai has created a dynamic ecosystem of startups, investors, and talent, making it an ideal destination for IT companies looking to expand their operations in the Middle East and beyond.
Obtaining A Professional Licence For An IT Company In Dubai
To legally operate an IT company in Dubai, a professional licence from the Department of Economic Development (DED) is mandatory. This licence is essential for careers that rely on intellectual abilities and talent, encompassing activities such as software development, IT consulting, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital marketing. The DED is the authorised entity to issue these licences, ensuring that business operations adhere to the laws, regulations, and compliances set by the respective Ministry.
A significant advantage of a professional licence is that it allows foreign investors to have complete ownership of the business, providing them with the benefits of a sole proprietorship. This contrasts with industrial and commercial licences, which necessitate a partnership with a UAE national who holds 51% shares in the business. However, a local service agent must be appointed to complete the legal formalities. This agent, who charges a fixed annual fee, has no direct involvement in the business.
The process of acquiring a professional licence involves detailing the activities undertaken in the business and approaching the DED for the permit. Required documents for the application include copies of the passports of owners or partners, a copy of the local partner’s naturalisation book, a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsors for foreign partners, and initial approval from relevant authorities.
The cost of a professional licence in Dubai is approximately USD 2,807 (AED 10,310). This includes various fees such as professional licence fees, service agent fees, trade name fees, market fees, administrative service fees, government cultural fees, and local fees. It’s important to note that the cost can vary over time.
Upon obtaining the licence, your IT company can legally operate and offer its services in Dubai. You can also leverage the city’s advanced infrastructure, supportive business environment, and government initiatives to attract foreign investment. Major IT companies like Oracle and Cisco have established regional headquarters or offices in Dubai, serving the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
How Much Does It Cost To Set Up A Company In The UAE?
Establishing an IT firm in Dubai requires a thorough understanding of the local business climate. The expenses associated with starting a company in this city can fluctuate based on several variables, such as the nature of the business, its location, and specific operational requirements.
The initial step in launching a company in Dubai is to complete the company registration process. This involves selecting a business activity, submitting the required documents, and securing a trade licence. The starting price for company registration in the UAE is USD 2,192 (AED 8,050), which can vary depending on the facilities and visa availability.
Dubai offers different jurisdictions for company registration, including Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore. Each jurisdiction has its distinct features and operational procedures. For instance, Mainland companies can now be registered as 100% expatriate-owned entities, with certain regulations to be met depending on the business activity and sector. On the other hand, Free Zones and Offshore companies allow for 100% expatriate shareholding.
The cost components of company registration in Dubai include documentation and attestation, business licence, visa processing, and immigration. For a low-cost company setup, the cost can range from USD 4,629 (AED 17,000) to USD 6,807 (AED 25,000). However, establishing a company in Dubai Mainland includes additional expenses such as business licence fees, office rent, memorandum of association attestation, and trade licence fees.
The trend of online company registration in Dubai has increased, enabling investors to register their companies remotely. This not only streamlines the process but also conserves time and resources. However, it’s important to note that the cost of setting up a business in Dubai Free Zones or Mainland depends on factors such as office rent, licence fees, visa fees, and bank guarantees.
When launching an IT company in Dubai, it’s also crucial to stay abreast of the latest technological trends and innovations to maintain a competitive edge in the market. Networking and collaborating with other IT companies and professionals in Dubai can also benefit your business growth and development.
Final Thoughts On UAE’s IT Landscape
Dubai and the UAE, as a whole, offer a promising landscape for both budding and established IT companies. With its robust infrastructure, commitment to digital innovation, and supportive government policies, it’s an environment where your IT business can thrive.
Starting an IT company in Dubai might have its own set of challenges. Still, with careful planning, proper guidance, and sticking to legal requirements, it can be a rewarding endeavour. You’ll find yourself in a competitive yet inspiring platform set by local and international tech giants, perfect for IT startups.
The UAE’s IT industry is on a steady growth path, with expanding opportunities and a strong momentum towards a digitised future. As an entrepreneur, investor, or IT professional, you stand to benefit from the richness of this technological haven.
