IT Business in UAE

Run a digital business in a jurisdiction where technology is a state-level priority. Opening an IT company in the UAE is an opportunity to enter a market with high purchasing power, utilize tax benefits, and serve clients worldwide from a stable and prestigious jurisdiction.

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IT Business in the UAE: Why Start Here?

The UAE is not only a hub for real estate and trade but also a fast-growing IT and technology center in the Middle East. The government heavily invests in digital transformation, attracts international startups, and fosters a favorable ecosystem for tech companies. Registering an IT company in the UAE provides access to a wealthy market, tax benefits, and the opportunity to operate globally from a stable and prestigious jurisdiction.

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IT Activities Covered by Licenses

Software development, CRM/ERP systems.
Web and mobile applications.
Cybersecurity and IT support.
Cloud solutions (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS).
Big Data, AI/ML, process automation.
Blockchain, Web3, NFT, Metaverse.
Smart Solutions, IoT, system integration.
Gaming industry, AR/VR technologies.

Company Formation Options

Free Zone companies (IT-focused zones):
• Dubai Internet City (DIC);
• Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO);
• Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP);
• RAK DAO (Ras Al Khaimah Digital Assets Oasis);
• ADGM / DIFC (for fintech and Web3).
Best for SaaS, R&D, global projects, and remote operations.
Mainland companies (DED license)
• Suitable for government contracts, tenders, and B2B in the UAE.
• Flexible expansion and full local market access.

Licensing and Compliance

Most IT activities are licensed under Software Development, IT Services, or IT Consultancy. In certain cases, additional approvals are required:

TDRA — for VoIP, cloud services, and hosting.
VARA (Dubai) / SCA (federal) — for crypto, Web3, and digital assets.
MOHAP and others — for MedTech and HealthTech platforms.

Looking to launch an IT company in the UAE?

MIRAD will help you register your business, secure licenses, and set up compliance — so you can focus on growth and technology.

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HowTo: Register an IT Company in the UAE

Define your IT activity: software, SaaS, AI, Web3, cybersecurity.
Choose jurisdiction: Free Zone (faster, global focus) or Mainland (government projects).
Prepare documents: shareholder passports, business plan, shareholder details.
Apply for a license: IT Consultancy / Software / Technology Services.
Obtain additional approvals (TDRA, VARA, SCA) if required.
Sign an office lease (mandatory for Mainland, flex-desk for Free Zone).
Open a corporate bank account.
Register for VAT, Corporate Tax, ESR, and AML compliance.

What MIRAD Does

Select the best jurisdiction: Free Zone or Mainland.
Obtain licenses for Software, IT Consultancy, AI, Cybersecurity, Web3.
Assist with office setup, banking, and corporate structuring.
Advise on VAT, Corporate Tax, ESR, AML, and UBO compliance.
Support startups, established IT companies, and fintech projects.

Why Choose MIRAD

Expertise in end-to-end IT company setup.
Experience with DIC, DSO, SRTIP, RAK DAO, ADGM, DIFC.
Support for startups and established firms.
Full compliance with TDRA, VARA, and SCA requirements.
Comprehensive solutions: from licensing to global scaling.

FAQ: IT Business in the UAE

❓ Can I open a crypto or Web3 company in the UAE?
✅ Yes, but you will need approval from VARA (Dubai) or SCA (federal).

❓ Is an office required for an IT company?
✅ Mainland — mandatory. Free Zone — flex-desk or shared office is sufficient.

❓ How long does licensing take?
✅ Free Zone — 2–4 weeks. Mainland — up to 2 months.

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