DIFC offers a comprehensive technology ecosystem featuring affordable licensing, tailored regulations, accelerator programs, and funding for growth-stage startups. Open to all tech entrepreneurs, DIFC provides Innovation Licenses and connects innovators with a diverse community of banks, venture capitalists, and service providers. As a sector-agnostic hub, DIFC’s Innovation Hub leads the MEASA region in fostering innovative solutions, supported by initiatives like the Dubai Future District Fund, driving the future of finance and technology.
Innovation License
The DIFC Innovation Licence supports cutting-edge technology firms across all sectors, allowing them to access tech innovations in the MEASA region. This commercial licence, available to firms at any growth stage, is designed for businesses developing or testing innovative products. It offers a subsidised fee of USD 1,500 per year for 2 to 5 years, including access to coworking spaces and discounted visas.
Innovation and AI License
DIFC’s Innovation and AI Licence supports AI developers and entrepreneurs with flexible, cost-effective options to grow their businesses. Based at the Dubai AI Campus, firms benefit from top-tier infrastructure, R&D facilities, accelerator programs, and collaborative workspaces. The subsidised commercial licence costs USD 1,500 per year and includes access to coworking spaces and discounted visas for companies setting up in the MEASA region.
Venture Studio License
The Venture Studios Licence is a commercial licence designed for incubating new business ideas and testing minimum viable products (MVPs) for limited periods. It allows companies to manage and hold shares in their ventures, including non-DIFC entities, and provide services such as treasury, IT, administration, and advisory exclusively to their ventures. The licence costs USD 25,000 per year and includes four commercial permissions, coworking space for two people, and two visas.