What documents does an American national need to start a cybersecurity services business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your cybersecurity services venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a cybersecurity services company in DIC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Cybersecurity Services company in Dubai Internet City?

Yes, DIC allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

What are the tax implications for a Cybersecurity Services business in Dubai Internet City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DIC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What business activities can I include on my DIC licence?

Your DIC licence can include cybersecurity services as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DIC Cybersecurity Services licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DIC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Cybersecurity Services business in Dubai Internet City?

The annual licence renewal for a Cybersecurity Services DIC company costs approximately AED 15,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Cybersecurity Services in Dubai Internet City for American nationals

Free ZoneProfessional

Cybersecurity Services in DIC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Cybersecurity Services

Setting up a Cybersecurity Services business in Dubai Internet City as an American citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United States-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of American business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DIC has been streamlined significantly, with most professional licences processed within 5 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 15,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your cybersecurity services business in Dubai Internet City. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why DIC for Cybersecurity Services?

Dubai Internet City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for professional businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers premier it and tech hub, which is particularly valuable for cybersecurity services operations. Additionally, home to global tech companies ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic Media City cluster further enhances the appeal of DIC for cybersecurity services professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your cybersecurity services business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established professional enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For American nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.

Premier IT and tech hub

Home to global tech companies

Strategic Media City cluster

100% foreign ownership

Tech ecosystem networking

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your cybersecurity services business in DIC.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your cybersecurity services company in DIC: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to cybersecurity services businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Completed application form for trade licence

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

7Signed application form from DIC authority

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your cybersecurity services business plan and the best DIC licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the cybersecurity services licence application to DIC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DIC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your cybersecurity services business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DIC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Cybersecurity Services in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750