Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) Free Zone
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) is a dedicated free zone specializing in healthcare, wellness, and medical education. It provides 100% foreign ownership, tax advantages, and state-of-the-art infrastructure for hospitals, clinics, wellness centers, and healthcare-related enterprises.
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) Free Zone – Business Setup Guide by Sohi Pro Services
Established in 2002 under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister of the UAE, Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) was the world’s first dedicated medical free zone. Designed to elevate Dubai’s status as a global healthcare destination, DHCC offers unparalleled opportunities for investors, healthcare professionals, and medical institutions.
At Sohi Services, we help entrepreneurs and businesses navigate the seamless process of setting up in DHCC—an ecosystem that merges healthcare, wellness, research, and education in one thriving free zone.
Why Dubai Healthcare City?
DHCC serves as a central hub for world-class healthcare services and pharmaceutical enterprises. Thanks to its strategic location, DHCC is easily accessible from any part of Dubai and beyond. The free zone is a comprehensive community that supports:
Medical tourism
Private hospitals and clinics
Pharmaceutical companies
Rehabilitation and wellness centers
Research and teaching institutions
Spas and therapeutic care units
As a growing leader in healthcare excellence, DHCC continues to introduce new services and specializations, setting global benchmarks in patient care.
Key Benefits of Setting Up in DHCC
Companies that choose DHCC benefit from a supportive business environment designed to foster innovation and growth:
100% foreign ownership
Full exemption from personal, income, and corporate taxes
Zero customs duties
Freedom to repatriate profits and capital
No trade or quota barriers
Flexible leasing or property purchase options for clinics
Direct access to international healthcare brands and clientele
Types of Licenses Available in DHCC Free Zone
To operate in DHCC, businesses must obtain a license suitable for their activity. The free zone offers the following licensing structures:
1. Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
A standalone legal entity that can be owned by individual(s) or corporate(s). Minimum capital requirements depend on the nature of the business. At least one shareholder and one director are required.
2. Branch of a UAE Company/Establishment
This structure allows UAE-based companies (outside DHCC) to open a branch within the free zone. The parent company retains full ownership. No capital requirement applies.
3. Branch of a Foreign Company
Foreign businesses can establish a branch in DHCC without capital requirements. This branch acts as an extension of the parent company headquartered outside the UAE.
How the Metaverse Services License Works
The Metaverse operates through virtual spaces where individuals interact via digital avatars. These avatars collaborate, attend events, shop, learn, and conduct business—all in a digitally immersive environment.
Transactions in this space are powered by digital currencies or cryptocurrencies, and users typically navigate through it using VR equipment. Businesses within this space can offer services related to:
Gaming
Virtual goods & NFTs
Social media platforms
Virtual education or events
Entertainment & digital assets
The license ensures your operations are legal, protected, and recognized by UAE authorities.
Business Setup Procedure in DHCC
Setting up a business in DHCC is a streamlined process, and Sohi Services is here to guide you every step of the way:
Step-by-Step Process:
Register as an Investor
Submit Initial Application
Make Initial Application Payment
Obtain Provisional Approval
Submit Commercial License Application
Make Commercial License Payment
Provide Share Capital Proof (for FZ-LLC only)
Submit Required Legal Documentation
Collect Your Commercial License
License approval typically takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date of complete application submission
Required Documents for DHCC Business Setup
For New Company Formation:
Trade name reservation and initial approval documents
Passport copies of all shareholders
CV and passport copy of the proposed manager
Personal information sheet of shareholders and manager
Lease agreement (minimum required space for office or clinic)
Notarized Memorandum of Association (for corporates)
Legal representative appointment documentation
Registration proof of any existing companies (if applicable)
Proof of physical address
For Setting Up a Branch:
Passport copies and profiles of shareholders and manager
Trade name reservation and activity approvals
MOA of the parent company (notarized in home country and UAE)
Attested business license or registration of parent company
Lease agreement (minimum 60 sq.m.)
Board resolution (for corporate shareholders only)
Company profile and proof of address
All documents must be submitted to the DHCC Free Zone Authority for verification and approval.
Why Choose DHCC for Your Healthcare Business?
DHCC provides unmatched support and a globally recognized healthcare ecosystem that includes:
Access to a diverse pool of healthcare professionals
Cutting-edge medical infrastructure
Low operational costs
Flexible real estate options to suit your needs
Exposure to international medical standards in practice, research, and education
A community that fosters innovation in patient care, diagnostics, and rehabilitation
At Sohi Services, we ensure a hassle-free experience—from consultation and documentation to licensing and setup.
Sohi Pro Services is your trusted partner for business setup in the UAE. We specialize in company formation, licensing, and consultancy across all major free zones and mainland jurisdictions. Let us simplify your journey to success in the UAE.
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