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Dubai Knowledge Village (DKV) is the Middle East’s first free zone dedicated exclusively to human resource management, education, and professional training. Home to over 450 academic institutions, corporate training providers, and HR consultancies, DKV offers the infrastructure and regulatory framework to launch education-focused ventures serving the UAE and wider region.
At Setup Dubai Business, we guide entrepreneurs through every stage of Dubai Knowledge Village business setup—from selecting the right license structure to securing office space and processing visas for your team.
Established in 2003, Dubai Knowledge Village operates as part of the TECOM Group and is regulated by the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA). The free zone was purpose-built to support the UAE’s knowledge-based economy, creating a concentrated hub where educational institutions, training providers, and HR professionals operate alongside each other.
DKV hosts branch campuses of internationally recognized universities including the University of Wollongong, Middlesex University, and the British University in Dubai. This academic ecosystem creates natural partnerships and referral opportunities for training providers, educational consultancies, and professional development firms.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| 100% Foreign Ownership | Full company ownership without local sponsor requirement |
| Tax Efficiency | 0% corporate tax on qualifying free zone income; 9% on non-qualifying income above AED 375,000 |
| Full Repatriation | 100% capital and profit repatriation with no currency restrictions |
| Zero Customs Duty | No import duties on goods and equipment |
| Streamlined Visa Processing | Fast-track immigration services through DCCA |
| Education Ecosystem | Co-location with universities, institutes, and training providers |
DKV’s location adjacent to Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City provides easy access to technology and media companies—ideal for corporate training providers and e-learning businesses targeting these sectors.
Dubai Knowledge Village accommodates education, training, and HR-related business activities. Permitted categories include:
Training and Education Services:
HR and Consultancy Services:
Freelance Permits:
For guidance on selecting the right business activities for your venture, explore our free zone advantages guide or contact our team for a personalized assessment.
Three legal structures are available for Dubai Knowledge Village business setup, each suited to different business models and ownership requirements:
The most common structure for new education and training businesses. FZ-LLCs can have individual or corporate shareholders (one or more) and operate as independent legal entities with limited liability protection. Minimum capital requirement: AED 50,000 (varies by activity).
Required Documents:
Ideal for established educational institutions or training providers expanding into the UAE market. The branch operates as an extension of the parent company and must conduct activities aligned with the parent’s scope. No minimum capital requirement for branch establishments.
Required Documents:
Designed for independent professionals—trainers, coaches, consultants, and content developers—who wish to operate under their own name rather than a company brand. The freelancer permit offers a cost-effective entry point with minimal administrative requirements.
Required Documents:
Learn more about Dubai free zone company structures to determine the best option for your situation.
The Dubai Knowledge Village registration process follows a structured six-step procedure:
Complete and submit your application form to the Dubai Creative Clusters Authority (DCCA), specifying your proposed business activities and legal structure.
Provide all required documentation based on your chosen company type. Documents are reviewed for completeness and compliance with DKV regulations.
Upon initial approval, sign the CCL and pay the applicable registration and license fees.
For FZ-LLC structures, sign and return the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MAA) establishing your company’s governance framework.
Deposit the required share capital and obtain the share capital certificate (FZ-LLC only).
Select your office space, sign the lease agreement, and receive your business license.
Timeline: Standard processing takes 2-4 weeks from complete application submission to license issuance. Educational institutions requiring additional regulatory approvals may require extended timelines.
Education and training businesses in Dubai Knowledge Village should be aware of current UAE regulatory requirements:
Corporate Tax: The UAE’s 9% corporate tax applies to taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. Free zone businesses maintaining “qualifying income”—primarily transactions with other free zone entities or designated activities—may benefit from the 0% rate. Training services provided to mainland UAE clients may constitute non-qualifying income subject to standard tax rates.
VAT Compliance: Educational services have specific VAT treatment under UAE law. While certain accredited educational programs may be zero-rated, corporate training and professional development services are generally subject to 5% VAT. Registration is mandatory once annual taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000.
E-Invoicing: The UAE’s mandatory e-invoicing rollout begins in phases from July 2026. Larger enterprises (AED 50M+ revenue) must comply first, with SMEs following in 2027. Ensure your accounting systems are compatible with FTA requirements.
Educational Accreditation: Training providers offering accredited programs may require additional approvals from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) or other relevant bodies depending on the nature of certifications offered.
Once your DKV license is issued, several operational steps follow:
Corporate Bank Account: Opening a business bank account requires your DKV license, shareholder documentation, and detailed business plan. Training providers may need to demonstrate expected revenue sources and client types. Our team prepares documentation to meet current banking requirements.
Visa Processing: DKV companies can sponsor investor visas, employment visas, and dependent visas. Visa allocations depend on office space size. Our PRO services handle Emirates ID registration, medical tests, and visa stamping efficiently.
Facility Setup: DKV offers various workspace options from flexi-desks to dedicated training facilities. Businesses requiring classroom or seminar space should discuss specific requirements during the application process.
With over a decade of experience in UAE company formation, Setup Dubai Business provides comprehensive support for education and training entrepreneurs entering Dubai Knowledge Village.
Our DKV services include:
We understand the unique requirements of education businesses—from accreditation considerations to scaling visa allocations as your training team grows. Our consultants work to minimize delays and ensure your DKV setup proceeds smoothly.
Yes. DKV companies can provide training services to clients throughout the UAE. However, such income may be classified as “non-qualifying” for corporate tax purposes. The 2026 mainland permit options also allow certain free zone businesses expanded market access. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
It depends on your services. General corporate training and professional development typically require only the DKV license. However, providers offering accredited educational programs, vocational qualifications, or programs targeting minors may need additional KHDA approval. We can advise based on your specific activities.
Branch establishments have no minimum capital requirement. FZ-LLCs require minimum share capital of AED 50,000, though actual requirements may vary by activity. Total setup costs depend on license type, office space, and visa requirements. Contact us for a detailed cost breakdown.
Yes. E-learning and virtual training businesses are well-suited to DKV. The free zone’s proximity to Dubai Internet City provides access to technology infrastructure and potential partnerships. Digital business models may qualify for flexi-desk arrangements with lower overhead costs.
Ready to launch your education or training business in Dubai Knowledge Village? Contact Setup Dubai Business at +971 55 378 8000 for expert guidance tailored to your business objectives.
for more details call +971 55 378 8000 or e-mail us in info@ebsuae.com
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