Set up your AI company in Dubai with DIFC AI License (90% subsidized), regulatory sandboxes, and growth-friendly regulations. AI could add 300B AED to UAE economy by 2030. Artificial intelligence business license Dubai from AED 25,000.
Advantages
UAE's vision to become global AI leader by 2031 creates unprecedented opportunities.
76% of industry leaders find Dubai's AI regulations growth-friendly. Clear frameworks support innovation.
Test innovative AI solutions in controlled environments without immediate heavy restrictions.
Get 90% subsidy on commercial license for AI developers. Massive cost savings for startups.
AI could add over 300 billion AED to UAE economy by 2030. Be part of this massive growth.
Government commitment to make UAE global AI leader. Significant investment and infrastructure support.
Dubai AI Campus, accelerators, and growing tech ecosystem with international talent pool.
Dubai AI Strategy 2031
The UAE government has committed to making the country a global AI leader by 2031, with AI integrated into healthcare, transport, government, and logistics. Studies estimate AI could contribute over 300 billion AED to the UAE economy by 2030.
License Types
AED 2,500 (90% subsidized)
Annual
Best for:
AI startups and developers
AED 25,000-40,000
Annual
Best for:
AI SaaS, machine learning products
AED 35,000-80,000
Annual
Best for:
AI consulting, B2B AI services
AI Applications
GPT applications, AI automation tools, ML platforms
Free Zone or DIFCAI strategy, ML model development, data science
Mainland or Free ZoneMedical imaging AI, diagnostic tools, health analytics
DIFC + DOH approvalTrading algorithms, risk analytics, fraud detection
DIFC + Central BankRobotics, drones, self-driving tech, IoT AI
Mainland + specific permitsAcademic AI research, R&D labs, innovation centers
Free Zone or DIFCCompliance
Introduced July 2024. Establishes principles for ethical AI development: governance, transparency, privacy, safety.
AI businesses handling personal data must adhere to UAE Data Protection Regulation similar to GDPR.
Healthtech, fintech, mobility AI need additional approvals. Fintech → Central Bank, Healthcare → DOH, all must meet cybersecurity requirements.
Dubai promotes responsible AI usage. Businesses must follow ethical AI practices and demonstrate safety measures.
Optional but recommended. Test AI solutions in regulatory sandbox before full commercial rollout.
Process
DIFC AI License (subsidized), Free Zone (tax benefits), or Mainland (full UAE access). We recommend based on your AI solution.
Describe your AI technology, target market, compliance approach. Required for DIFC and sector-specific licenses.
Software development, AI research, machine learning, data analytics, AI consulting. Choose activities matching your AI offering.
If in regulated sectors (fintech, healthtech), obtain relevant authority approvals. We guide through this process.
Submit documents, register company, receive trade license. Processing: 3-14 days depending on jurisdiction.
Connect with Dubai AI Campus, apply for sandbox if needed, network with AI community and potential partners.
Costs
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| DIFC AI License (subsidized) | AED 2,500 |
| Free Zone License | AED 25,000-40,000 |
| Mainland License | AED 35,000-80,000 |
| Virtual Office (Free Zone) | Included-AED 15,000 |
| Physical Office (if required) | AED 30,000-100,000 |
| Visa Costs (per person) | AED 5,000-8,000 |
| Professional Service Fees | AED 8,000-15,000 |
Most AI startups choose DIFC AI License (90% subsidy) for AED 2,500 license fee + ~AED 20,000 setup costs = Total ~AED 22,500 first year.
Get Started
Get personalized guidance for AI business setup Dubai. We handle licenses, approvals, and regulatory compliance.
Free consultation - AI license expertise - Response in 30 minutes
FAQs