Dubai Design District (d3) is Dubai's hub for the creative economy, providing a dedicated ecosystem for fashion, design, luxury brands, and creative professionals. Established by Dubai Design and Fashion Council under the umbrella of the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, d3 is home to over 600 companies including global luxury houses, emerging fashion brands, architecture firms, and design studios. The district's thoughtfully designed urban fabric integrates office spaces, showrooms, studios, galleries, and retail destinations in a walkable, inspiring environment. d3's flagship annual events — including Dubai Design Week and Dubai Fashion Forward — bring together the global creative community and cement the district's status as the creative capital of the Middle East. The free zone supports its community with unique enablement programmes, mentorship platforms, and funding opportunities designed to grow the region's creative talent and industry.
About Dubai Design District
Dubai Design District (d3) is Dubai's hub for the creative economy, providing a dedicated ecosystem for fashion, design, luxury brands, and creative professionals. Established by Dubai Design and Fashion Council under the umbrella of the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, d3 is home to over 600 companies including global luxury houses, emerging fashion brands, architecture firms, and design studios. The district's thoughtfully designed urban fabric integrates office spaces, showrooms, studios, galleries, and retail destinations in a walkable, inspiring environment. d3's flagship annual events — including Dubai Design Week and Dubai Fashion Forward — bring together the global creative community and cement the district's status as the creative capital of the Middle East. The free zone supports its community with unique enablement programmes, mentorship platforms, and funding opportunities designed to grow the region's creative talent and industry.
Key Information
| Zone Name | Dubai Design District |
| Emirate | Dubai |
| Setup Cost | From AED 18,000 |
| Visa Quota | Up to 5 |
| Min. Capital | None |
| Setup Time | 5-7 business days |
Costs & Fees
| License Fee / Setup Cost | From AED 18,000 |
| Minimum Share Capital | None |
Cost Notes
All costs shown are approximate and subject to change. Additional costs may include registration fees, notarisation, visa medical fees, and bank account opening fees. Always verify the exact costs with Dubai Design District directly before proceeding.
Permitted Business Activities
The above activities are indicative. Dubai Design District may permit additional activities based on your specific business requirements. Always confirm with the zone authority.
How to Set Up in Dubai Design District
- Choose your business activityIdentify the specific business activities you want to conduct. This determines the license type you need.
- Select your packageChoose between flexi-desk, shared office, or dedicated office options based on your needs and budget.
- Submit your applicationProvide required documents including passport copies, business plan, and completed application forms.
- Pay fees and receive your licenseOnce approved, pay the applicable fees and receive your trade license — typically within 5-7 business days.
- Apply for visasUse your trade license to apply for investor and employee visas through the free zone authority.
- Open a bank accountUse your incorporation documents to open a corporate bank account with a UAE or international bank.