Dubai Healthcare City
DHCC is the dedicated zone for healthcare businesses in Dubai. Choose it for genuine healthcare operations, not for generic service businesses.
Should you choose DHCC?
DHCC is the dedicated zone for healthcare businesses in Dubai. Choose it for genuine healthcare operations, not for generic service businesses.
Who this is for: Healthcare, pharmaceutical, wellness, medical services
Key caution: Always verify current pricing, activity suitability, and banking realities before committing.
Best for
Healthcare
Starting from
AED 25,000
Visas
Visas available; specialist approvals required
Office
Specialist healthcare facilities
Timeline
14–30 business days (specialist approvals)
Banking
Smoother KYC
Overview
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) is a specialist Dubai free zone dedicated to healthcare, pharmaceutical, wellness, and medical-services businesses. As a UAE free zone it offers 100% foreign ownership and access to the standard free-zone tax framework, where qualifying income can fall under 0% corporate tax subject to economic substance and Federal Tax Authority conditions. What sets it apart is the regulatory layer: clinical and many healthcare activities require specialist approvals through the centre's healthcare regulator, so timelines are longer than a standard service-licence setup and credentials must be in order. It is most relevant for genuine healthcare operators, pharmaceutical distributors, medical-technology firms, and clinical-research organisations that need a recognised healthcare environment and specialist facilities. Banking benefits from established relationships oriented to healthcare businesses, though documentation and the underlying activity remain important. Because the approvals and facilities are healthcare-specific, it is the wrong fit for non-healthcare or simple service companies, which would pay for a regulatory layer they do not need. Founders should apply only with the proper healthcare credentials and qualifications, and budget for the additional approval steps and specialist facility costs. Pricing is quote-led for a specialist zone, so confirm current fees, the exact approvals required for your activity, and processing timelines directly with the authority before committing.
Who it suits
This may apply when
- •Healthcare operators
- •Pharmaceutical distributors
- •Medical technology firms
May not be the best fit when
- •Non-healthcare businesses
- •Simple service companies
- •Cost-sensitive founders who do not need the healthcare regulatory layer
Business activities
Activity availability may vary. Confirm with the authority for your specific activity.
Pricing & Packages
Standard
AED 25,000+ /yr
Includes
- Trade licence
- DHCC facilities access
Not included
- Specialist approvals
- Visa fees
Pricing is indicative. Last checked: March 2026. Always confirm current fees and inclusions directly.
Visa & office considerations
Visas
Visas available; specialist approvals required.
Office
Specialist healthcare facilities within DHCC.
Banking & KYC realities
Established relationships for healthcare businesses.
Setup process
- 1Submit application
- 2Receive specialist approvals
- 3Pay fees
- 4Collect licence
Common requirements
- Passport copy
- Medical qualifications
- Business plan
- Specialist certifications
Common mistakes to avoid
Compare DHCC with alternatives
No direct comparisons available for this free zone.
Frequently asked questions
Sources & methodology
- DHCC business setup[DHCC]
Last checked: March 2026
This page is educational and not legal or tax advice. Fees, requirements, and authority policies can change. Always confirm the latest official requirements and get qualified advice for your specific situation.
Ready to explore DHCC?
Get a verified quote, personalised setup snapshot, or speak to an advisor who understands this free zone.