Business Setup in Dubai Knowledge Village Free Zone (DKV)

Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) Free Zone is a dynamic and integrated learning community that is specifically designed to foster the growth of knowledge-based industries in the region. DKV offers a comprehensive range of facilities and services that are tailored to the needs of businesses and individuals operating in the education, training, and human resource development sectors.

Established in 2003 as a part of Dubai Holding, Dubai Knowledge Village has since emerged as one of the leading free zones in the UAE, providing a supportive and nurturing environment for businesses and entrepreneurs in the education sector. DKV is strategically located in the heart of Dubai, with easy access to key business districts and transportation hubs, making it an ideal location for businesses looking to expand their operations in the region.

DKV free zone offers a wide range of facilities and services, including state-of-the-art training and development centers, cutting-edge technology and equipment, modern conference and meeting rooms, fully equipped office spaces, and a range of support services such as marketing, legal, and financial advice. DKV also provides access to a pool of talented and qualified professionals, including trainers, educators, and researchers, which can help businesses to develop and grow.

One of the key features of DKV is its commitment to creating a collaborative and supportive environment that encourages innovation and knowledge sharing. The community is home to a diverse range of businesses, from small start-ups to established multinational corporations, all working together to drive innovation and growth in the education sector. DKV also hosts a range of events and initiatives throughout the year, including conferences, workshops, and training programs, which provide businesses with access to the latest industry trends and best practices.

Overall, Dubai Knowledge Village is an excellent choice for businesses looking to enter or expand in the education sector. With its comprehensive range of facilities and services, strategic location, and commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, DKV provides a supportive and nurturing environment for businesses and entrepreneurs to grow and thrive.

In addition to DKV, Dubai also has other specialized free zones that cater to specific industries such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Healthcare City, and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), among others. Each free zone offers a unique set of benefits and advantages, making Dubai an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand their operations in the region.

Step By Step Process For Business Setup in Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) Free Zone:

Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) is a part of Dubai’s TECOM Group, which is responsible for the establishment of Dubai’s knowledge-based industries. DKV is a free zone, dedicated to the development of the human resource industry in the Middle East, and is home to more than 500 companies. If you are interested in setting up a business in Dubai Knowledge Village, there are several steps that you must follow. In this section, we will explain each step in detail.

Step 1: Choose the Type of Company

The first step to business setup in Dubai Knowledge Village free zone is to decide on the type of company you want to establish. DKV allows companies to operate in various sectors, including media, information technology, and education. Some common types of companies include:

• Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC): An FZ LLC is a separate legal entity, which allows you to operate a business without a local partner. As a result, you can have 100% ownership of the company.
• Branch of a Foreign Company: A branch office is a representative office of a foreign company. This type of company is not a separate legal entity, and its activities are limited to the activities of its parent company.
• Freelancer Permit: If you are a freelancer and want to work in Dubai Knowledge Village, you can apply for a freelancer permit. This permit allows you to operate as a sole proprietorship.

Once you have decided on the type of company you want to establish, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Choose the Business Activity

The next step is to choose the business activity you want to engage in. Dubai Knowledge Village offers a wide range of business activities, including:

• Training and Development
• Education
• Research and Development
• Consultancy and Advisory Services
• E-Learning

You must choose the business activity that best suits your company’s objectives.

Step 3: Choose the Legal Structure

The legal structure of your company will depend on the type of company you choose to establish. If you opt for an FZ LLC, you must choose a legal structure that best suits your business needs. Some of the legal structures available in Dubai Knowledge Village include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)

You must choose the legal structure that best suits your company’s needs.

Step 4: Choose the Office Space

Dubai Knowledge Village offers a range of office spaces, including executive offices, shared offices, and serviced offices. You must choose an office space that best suits your business needs. The cost of office space varies depending on the size and location of the office.

Step 5: Apply for a DKV free zone Business License

Once you have completed the previous steps, you can apply for a business license. The application process involves submitting the following documents:

• Completed application form
• Passport copies of shareholders and managers
• Business plan
• Company profile
• Proof of address
• No-objection certificate from your current sponsor (if you are a UAE resident)

The processing time for a business license is typically three to five working days.

Step 6: Apply for Residency Visas

If you are a foreign national, you must apply for residency visas for yourself and your employees. The application process involves submitting the following documents:

• Passport copies
• Visa application form
• Photographs
• Medical fitness certificate
• Emirates ID application form

The processing time for residency visas is typically three to four weeks.

Step 7: Register with Dubai Knowledge Village Authority

Once you have obtained all the necessary licenses and approvals, the next step is to register your company with Dubai Knowledge Village Authority. This can be done by submitting the required documents and paying the registration fee.

The required documents for registration include:

• A completed application form
• A copy of the company’s trade license
• A copy of the company’s articles of association
• A copy of the company’s passport and UAE residence visa
• A copy of the company’s lease agreement for its office space in DKV
• A no-objection certificate (NOC) from the company’s sponsor or a letter of authorization from the company’s legal representative

The registration fee varies depending on the size and nature of the company, and can range from AED 5,000 to AED 20,000.

Step 8: Set up your office space

Dubai Knowledge Village offers various office space options, including shared workspaces, private offices, and customized office solutions. You can choose the type of office space that best suits your business needs and budget.

If you opt for a shared workspace, you will have access to a desk, chair, and other basic amenities. Private offices are fully furnished and equipped with all the necessary facilities, including high-speed internet, phone lines, and meeting rooms. Customized office solutions allow you to create a workspace that meets your unique business requirements.

You will need to sign a lease agreement and pay a security deposit to secure your office space. The lease agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including the rental period, rent amount, and payment schedule.

Step 9: Obtain visas and work permits

If you plan to hire employees for your business in Dubai Knowledge Village, you will need to obtain the necessary visas and work permits. This process involves several steps and can take several weeks to complete.

First, you will need to apply for a labor quota approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This approval determines the number of work permits you are eligible to apply for.

Next, you will need to apply for entry permits and work visas for your employees. This can be done through the Dubai Knowledge Village Authority or through a registered typing center.

You will also need to obtain a residence visa for yourself and your family members, if applicable. This involves submitting the required documents and undergoing a medical examination.

Finally, you will need to register your employees with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and obtain their Emirates ID cards.

Step 10: Open a bank account

Once your company is registered and your office space is set up, you will need to open a bank account in Dubai. This will enable you to conduct financial transactions and receive payments from clients.

To open a bank account, you will need to provide the following documents:

• A copy of your trade license
• A copy of your passport and UAE residence visa
• A copy of your lease agreement for your office space
• A no-objection certificate (NOC) from your sponsor or a letter of authorization from your legal representative

Some banks may require additional documents or information depending on the nature and size of your business.

Dubai Knowledge Village Free Zone Business Setup Cost

Setting up a business in Dubai Knowledge Village involves various costs that need to be considered before starting the process. These costs include both one-time fees and ongoing expenses. In this section, we will discuss in detail the various costs involved in setting up a business in Dubai Knowledge Village.

1. License Fees: The first and most important cost to consider is the license fee. Dubai Knowledge Village offers three types of licenses, namely, Education License, Service License, and Commercial License. The cost of these licenses varies based on the type of license and the size of the company. The cost of a commercial license ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, while the cost of a service license ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 25,000. An education license costs AED 5,000.
2. Registration Fees: In addition to the license fee, companies are also required to pay a one-time registration fee. The registration fee for a commercial license is AED 1,000, while the registration fee for a service or education license is AED 500.
3. Visa Fees: Companies are required to sponsor the visas of their employees, and the cost of obtaining visas can be significant. The cost of obtaining a visa depends on the type of visa and the duration of stay. For example, the cost of obtaining a work visa can range from AED 3,000 to AED 6,000, depending on the duration of stay.
4. Office Space Rent: Companies are required to rent office space in Dubai Knowledge Village. The cost of office space varies depending on the location and size of the office. The rent for office space in Dubai Knowledge Village ranges from AED 25,000 to AED 200,000 per year, depending on the size and location of the office.
5. Utilities: Companies are responsible for paying for their utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet. The cost of utilities varies depending on the usage of the company.
6. Insurance: Companies are required to have insurance coverage for their employees, equipment, and liability. The cost of insurance varies depending on the type of coverage and the size of the company.
7. Legal Fees: Companies are required to hire a lawyer to assist with the legal aspects of setting up a business in Dubai Knowledge Village. The cost of legal services can vary depending on the complexity of the case.
8. Marketing and Advertising: Companies may need to spend money on marketing and advertising to attract customers and clients. The cost of marketing and advertising can vary depending on the type of advertising and the size of the campaign.
9. Miscellaneous Expenses: There may be other miscellaneous expenses that companies need to consider, such as the cost of travel, transportation, and office supplies.

Contact B Formation for Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) License and get a free consultation.