Expo City Dubai is part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, focusing on sustainability, smart technology, and an integrated lifestyle. Expo City Dubai is an innovation-driven, sustainable business hub designed to support entrepreneurs, startups, and established companies. As a dynamic free zone, it offers streamlined business setup processes, modern infrastructure, and a regulatory framework that promotes efficiency and growth. Whether you’re a multinational corporation or a small business owner, Expo City Dubai Free Zone provides an ideal environment to thrive.
Benefits of Doing Business in Expo City Dubai
Expo City Dubai offers a business-friendly environment with great benefits. It ensures an easy setup and long-term success for all businesses. Some key advantages of setting up a business here include:
| Key Benefit | Description |
| 100% Foreign Ownership | Full business ownership for entrepreneurs and investors. |
| Attractive Tax Benefits | Access to tax incentives for increased profitability. |
| Diverse Licensing Options | Combine multiple business activities under a single license. |
| Strategic Location | Well-connected to highways and metro stations. |
| Flexible Office Spaces | Options from co-working spaces to large corporate offices. |
| Dual Licensing | Operate in both free zone and mainland Dubai with an existing DET license. |
| Multi-Year Licensing | Secure a 3-year license for long-term stability. |
| Freelance Gateway | Freelance Permit available for 100+ professions. |
| Fast & Hassle-Free Setup | Dedicated account manager ensures a smooth registration process. |
| Sustainable & Smart Infrastructure | LEED-certified buildings with eco-friendly and high-tech facilities. |
Business Setup Process in Expo City Dubai
To operate in Expo City Dubai, you need a license from the Expo City Dubai Authority (ECDA). Business setup in Expo City is designed to be simple and supportive. If you’ve got all your papers ready, Initial Approval takes around 3 days, and the final license can be issued in just 1 day after everything’s signed and paid. Delays might happen if you need third-party approvals, but your Account Manager will keep things moving. Here’s the straightforward process:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Before applying for a license, you must decide on the legal entity for your business:
- Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): A new legal entity with single or multiple shareholders.
- Free Zone Branch (FZB): A branch of an existing UAE or international company.
Step 2: Select the Right Business License
Expo City Dubai Authority (ECDA) offers different license types based on your business activities:
| License Type | Description |
| Commercial License | For trading, importing, exporting, and distribution. |
| General Trading License | For trading across multiple industries. |
| Service License | For consultancy, hospitality, event management, and other service-related businesses. |
| E-Commerce License | For online businesses selling products and services. |
| Logistics License | For businesses handling storage, transportation, and distribution. |
| Industrial License | For light manufacturing, packaging, and assembly. |
| Holding License | For companies managing assets and subsidiaries. |
Step 3: Submit Application and Documents
Find a space in Expo City, sign an offer letter, and submit an application with basic documents via the ECDA Portal. To obtain initial approval, you must submit the following documents:
- Passport copies of shareholders and key personnel.
- UAE visa and Emirates ID (if applicable).
- Completed business setup application form.
- Parent company documents (for branches).
- Power of Attorney (if applying through a representative).
Once the documents are reviewed and approved, you will receive initial approval in about 3 days to proceed.
Step 4: Receive Final Approval and Sign the Lease Agreement
Submit final legal documents such as the Articles of Association and any required legal declarations. Then, complete payment for registration and licensing fees. If your business involves food, alcohol, or other regulated activities, you’ll need extra approvals.
Finally, sign the Lease Agreement for your office or workspace. The entity registration and lease agreement signing can be conducted either in person or virtually, based on your preference.
Step 5: Obtain Your License, Registration Certificate, and Company Card
After you sign the final Lease Agreement, ECDA will complete a final compliance check to ensure all documents are in order. Once approved, you will receive your ECD Licence, Registration Certificate, and Company Card.
Expo City Dubai Authority (ECDA)
ECDA offers an extensive range of more than 180 services, from business setup packages, short-term operation permits (from 1 day to 12 months), freelance permits for professional individuals, special permits for commercial food and beverage operations, employment and business visit visa services as well as documentation services.
Business Setup Packages in Expo City Dubai
Expo City Free Zone offers flexible packages tailored for freelancers, startups, and businesses at every stage of growth. Expo Freelance is designed for professional individuals, while Expo Grow provides an ideal solution for startups and small businesses. For a long-term setup, Expo Multi offers a hassle-free three-year licensing option for businesses leasing 250 sqm or more.
| Feature | Expo Grow | Expo Multi |
| Best for | Startups and small businesses | Established businesses leasing 250 sqm or more |
| Licence Duration | 1 year | 3 years |
| Company Card | 1-year validity | 3-year validity |
| Employment Visas | 2 x 1-year Employment Visa and/or Expo City Dubai ID | Contact us to learn more |
| Registration & Application Fees | Included | Included |
| Workplace | Shared desk | Office space (250 sqm or more) |
| Business Activities | Standard | Access to over 2,000 activities |
| Key Benefit | Affordable, flexible entry into Expo City Dubai | Long-term setup with fewer renewal hassles |
Set Up Your Business in Expo City Dubai Free Zone
Setting up a business in Expo City Dubai is a strategic move for companies looking to grow in a future-focused, innovation-friendly environment. With its flexible licensing options, streamlined setup process, and commitment to sustainability, it provides an excellent platform for success.
With Momentum business setup , you can establish your business smoothly and take full advantage of Expo City Dubai’s thriving ecosystem. Let us help you build a successful future in one of Dubai’s most innovative business hubs!
