Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) Free Zone Guide 2026
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) is a specialized free zone for healthcare, medical, and wellness businesses. Here is the 2026 guide to setting up in DHCC.
In this guide:
What Is Dubai Healthcare City?
- DHCC: A specialized free zone dedicated to healthcare, wellness, and medical education in Dubai
- Location: Near Dubai Creek; Phase 1 (medical hub); Phase 2 (Al Jadaf, wellness and education)
- Authority: Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA)
- Unique feature: Regulated healthcare environment; DHCC companies can provide direct clinical services to patients
Who Sets Up in DHCC?
- Hospitals and clinics: Private hospitals, specialist clinics, diagnostic centers
- Pharmaceutical companies: Drug R&D, pharmaceutical trading
- Medical device companies: Devices, equipment, and supplies
- Wellness and fitness: Wellness centers, spa, gyms
- Medical education: Training institutes, nursing schools, continuing medical education
DHCC Licence Types
- Clinical licence: For companies providing direct patient care (hospitals, clinics)
- Non-clinical licence: For medical support businesses (pharma, devices, consulting)
- Education licence: For medical education and training institutes
DHCC vs. Mainland for Healthcare
- DHCC: Preferred for private hospitals and specialist clinics; DHCA regulates clinical quality
- Mainland (DHA-licensed): Also an option for Dubai clinics; DHA licence required regardless
- Most private hospitals in Dubai operate under DHCC due to the integrated regulatory framework