Join a curated community of global design, fashion, and art leaders. Secure 100% foreign ownership and leverage a purpose-built ecosystem designed for creative growth.
Established In
2013
Industry Focus
Design, Fashion, Art & Luxury
Community
Global Brands & Startups
Ownership
100% Foreign Ownership
Location
Adjacent to Downtown Dubai
Launched in 2013, Dubai Design District (d3) is a purpose-built community dedicated to the design, fashion, art, and luxury sectors. It provides a premier platform for emerging regional talent to work alongside global brands, positioning Dubai as a leading destination for creative innovation.
d3 provides a comprehensive framework of financial and operational benefits, allowing your creative business to thrive.
Retain 100% control of your business without a UAE national partner, ensuring full autonomy over your operations and strategy.
Benefit from 0% personal income tax and eligibility for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income, maximizing your company's profitability.
Transfer 100% of your profits and capital back to your home country without any restrictions or currency limitations.
Operate from a globally recognized address adjacent to Downtown Dubai, placing your business at the nexus of commerce and culture.
Connect with a curated community of startups, freelancers, and global brands through exclusive events like Dubai Design Week.
Leverage the in5 Design incubator for mentorship, funding access, and specialized labs, providing a dedicated growth path for emerging creative businesses.
d3 offers premium, transparent pricing that reflects its strategic location and unparalleled ecosystem value.
Billed annually
Billed annually
Billed annually
AED Pricing
d3 offers premium, transparent pricing that reflects its strategic location and unparalleled ecosystem value.
Total Estimated Cost (Year 1)
d3 offers a range of license types tailored to the specific needs of the creative industries.
d3 supports a wide spectrum of business activities across the creative and design value chain.
| Activity Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Fashion Trading | Commercial & Trading |
| Luxury Goods Trading | Commercial & Trading |
| E-Commerce | Commercial & Trading |
| Architectural Consultancy | Professional & Consultancy |
| Interior Design Consultancy | Professional & Consultancy |
| Advertising & Communication Agency | Professional & Consultancy |
| Event Management | Media & Creative |
| New Media | Media & Creative |
| Media and Marketing Services | Media & Creative |
| Software Development | Technology & Innovation |
| IT Consultancy | Technology & Innovation |
| Localisation Services | Technology & Innovation |
| Higher Education Provider | Education & Training |
| Executive Coaching | Education & Training |
| Training | Education & Training |
Set up your d3 company efficiently with our clear, structured process, which can be completed 100% remotely.
Phase 1 Focus
We help you select the right license and legal structure. You provide required documents like passport copies and a business plan.
The Dubai Development Authority (DDA) reviews your application. We secure your trade name during this phase.
After approval, we process your company registration, issue the Memorandum of Association, and finalize your trade license.
We open your company's Establishment Card and begin processing residency visas for shareholders and employees.
d3 offers a prestigious address, a community of peers, and a vibrant retail destination to enhance brand presence for established international houses.
Primary Benefit
A brand-aligned, high-prestige location allowing 100% operational control.
Gain direct access to the in5 Design incubator for mentorship, funding opportunities, and specialized labs to accelerate your growth.
Primary Benefit
An integrated support system to overcome high barriers to entry.
The 'GoFreelance' permit provides a simple, cost-effective, and legal way to operate independently within the region's premier creative hub.
Primary Benefit
A flexible, low-overhead permit with unparalleled networking opportunities.
Establish brand credibility with a prestigious d3 address and e-commerce license, while gaining access to designers, suppliers, and content creators.
Primary Benefit
Build customer trust and tap into a network of creative industry partners.
Understand the unique advantages of establishing your business in Dubai's premier creative ecosystem.
| Feature Highlight | Dubai Design District (d3) | Dubai Media City (DMC) | Dubai Mainland (DET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Niche | Design, Fashion, Art, Luxury | Media, Advertising, Broadcast | Unrestricted, All Sectors |
| Foreign Ownership | 100% | 100% | Up to 100% (with conditions) |
| Corporate Tax | 0% for Qualifying Income | 0% for Qualifying Income | Standard 9% (no QFZP benefit) |
| Market Access | Direct trade within Free Zone & internationally | Direct trade within Free Zone & internationally | Direct trade across the entire UAE |
| Ecosystem Focus | Curated creative community & retail destination | Established media & advertising hub | General business environment |
| Best For | Creative businesses prioritizing brand prestige and collaboration | Media companies seeking an established industry hub | Businesses needing to trade directly with the local UAE market |
This is a general comparison for informational purposes. The best choice depends on your specific business needs.
Position your brand for success. Contact our setup advisors today to secure your place in Dubai Design District.
