Dubai Design District (d3)

Dubai Design District (d3) is a vibrant, purpose-built free zone dedicated to fostering the creative industries in Dubai. It is a hub for design, fashion, art, media, and other creative businesses, offering a supportive ecosystem for innovators and entrepreneurs. Established by TECOM Group, d3 is strategically located close to Downtown Dubai and Dubai International Airport.

Key Features of Dubai Design District (d3)

1. Creative Ecosystem:

   • Home to top local and international designers, fashion brands, and creative entrepreneurs.
   • Hosts a mix of design studios, galleries, showrooms, and retail outlets.

2. Strategic Location:

   • Close to Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, and Burj Khalifa.
   • Proximity to key cultural and business hubs.

3. World-Class Infrastructure:

   • High-tech office spaces and coworking facilities.
   • Showrooms, workshops, and retail spaces tailored to the creative sector.

4. Business-Friendly Environment:

   • 100% foreign ownership.
   • No corporate or personal income tax.
   • Full repatriation of profits and capital.

5. Networking and Collaboration:

   • Community-focused design to encourage interaction between businesses, designers, and artists.

6. Events and Initiatives:

   • Hosts flagship events like Dubai Design Week, Fashion Forward, and Sole DXB.
   • Regular exhibitions, workshops, and industry networking opportunities.

Industries Catered to by d3

Dubai Design District primarily caters to the following industries:

• Fashion and Apparel: Designers, retailers, and manufacturers.
• Interior and Architecture: Studios and consultants.
• Art and Culture: Galleries, artists, and curators.
• Digital Media and Technology: Creative agencies and tech startups.
• Retail and E-Commerce: Luxury and lifestyle brands.
• Marketing and Advertising: Agencies and freelancers.

Benefits of Setting Up in d3

1. Inspiring Community:

   • Opportunity to collaborate with like-minded creatives.
   • Regular community events and programs to foster creativity.

2. Tax-Free Environment:

   • Zero corporate and personal income tax.
   • No customs duties for goods traded within the free zone.

3. Flexibility in Workspace:

   • Variety of options, from coworking spaces to custom-built studios and offices.

4. Licensing Options:

   • Multiple business activities under one license.
   • Custom solutions for freelancers, startups, and large corporations.

5. Access to Talent:

   • A thriving community of artists, designers, and skilled professionals.

6. Government Support:

   • Easy company setup with streamlined visa and licensing services.
   • Legal and regulatory support for businesses.

Types of Licenses Offered by d3

1. Design License:

   • For businesses in fashion, graphic design, interior design, and architecture.

2. Freelance Permit:

   • For individuals in creative fields such as photography, writing, and illustration.

3. Trade License:

   • For retail and e-commerce businesses.

4. Event License:

   • For companies organizing exhibitions, conferences, and live events.

5. Service License:

   • For agencies offering marketing, advertising, or consultancy services.

How to Set Up a Business in Dubai Design District

1. Choose a Business Activity:

   • Identify the nature of your business and select the relevant license.

2. Submit Application:

   • Complete the registration form and provide the required documents.

3. Lease Workspace:

   • Select from available office spaces, coworking desks, or retail showrooms.

4. Pay Fees:

   • Pay the registration, licensing, and rental fees.

5. Receive License:

   • Once approved, you will be issued your business license.

6. Start Operations:

   • Begin your creative journey in d3.

Documents Required for Business Setup in d3

1. Passport copies of shareholders and managers.
2. CV and portfolio (for creative professionals and freelancers).
3. Business plan or activity description.
4. Completed application form.
5. No Objection Certificate (NOC) for UAE residents (if applicable).

Events and Attractions in d3

1. Dubai Design Week:

   • Annual event showcasing innovative designs from around the globe.

2. Sole DXB:

   • A festival celebrating street culture, sneakers, and contemporary art.

3. Art Galleries and Exhibitions:

   • Regularly hosts exhibitions and pop-ups by emerging and established artists.

4. Creative Workshops:

   • Opportunities for skill-building and networking.

Why Choose d3 for Your Business?

1. Thriving Creative Hub:

   • Ideal for startups, freelancers, and established brands in the creative industry.

2. Innovative Environment:

   • Purpose-built facilities to inspire innovation and collaboration.

3. Reputation:

   • Globally recognized as a center for design, fashion, and art in the UAE.

4. Supportive Community:

   • Opportunities to connect with industry leaders, investors, and collaborators.

Dubai Design District (d3) is a haven for creatives, offering a unique blend of innovation, inspiration, and business opportunities. Whether you’re a designer, artist, or entrepreneur, d3 provides the perfect platform to showcase your talent and grow your business.