Dubai Knowledge Park – a lot more than just a free zone in Dubai
- Why Businesses Prefer DKP
- How to Setup a Business
- Facilities
- Training Facilities
- Networking Events
- Other Facilities
- FAQs
Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP), previously known as Dubai Knowledge Village, was established in 2003. Part of the renowned TECOM Group, this free zone develops the talent pool in the UAE, promoting the region as a knowledge-based economy.
About Dubai Knowledge Park
DKP is a one-of-a-kind learning hub that brings together the finest educational and vocational programmes in consultancy, human resource management (HRM), personal development and training.
Students here graduate with internationally recognised certificates and diplomas from Dubai Knowledge Park’s high-calibre universities and educational institutes. DKP is the only free zone dedicated entirely to excellence in learning and human resource management.
The Dubai Knowledge Park, formerly called Knowledge Village operates as a cluster of blocks. These blocks are home to some of the biggest universities and companies in Dubai. Some of the notable companies in Dubai Knowledge Village include Cisco, Stanton Chase and more.
What Attracts Businesses to Dubai Knowledge Park
Dubai Knowledge Park is a free zone, which means all businesses operating within its premises are exempted from traditional taxation laws and can operate without a local sponsor.
Free zones differ from freehold areas and shouldn’t be confused as being synonymous. Free zones like DKP offer businesses a selection of world-class services and amenities in addition to:
- Complete foreign ownership
- 100% repatriation of profits and capital
- Total exemption from all kinds of duties and taxes
- Smooth and straightforward incorporation process and visa issuance
The other feature that makes DKP stand out among other free zones in Dubai, is its prime location. The Dubai Knowledge Park location puts it in excellent proximity to the Dubai Media City and the Dubai Internet City free zones.
This allows students, employees and entrepreneurs in DKP to gain valuable hands-on experiences in trending regional media, business and IT insights that enhance their learning.
Setting Up a Business in Dubai Knowledge Park
DKP is no ordinary free zone. Most people find setting up a business in Dubai slightly challenging, although it’s not. But for company formation in DKP, the entire process flows smoothly.
Managed by TECOM – a renowned industry-specialised operator and developer – DKP has a specific list of business activities and segments permitted within its parameters. As long as your preferred business activity falls within that list, you can operate in DKP as a:
- Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
- Branch of a UAE/foreign company
- Freelancer
Their website provides a straightforward form for the license request and submission of a business plan, along with a list of other requirements. The process is seamless and simple – something you can quickly complete online. In case you have trouble figuring out your way forward, you can always reach out to the DKP business development team for assistance.
Facilities at Dubai Knowledge Park
Where a standard free zone in the emirate would only offer basic benefits to its partners, Dubai Knowledge Park goes the extra mile by providing dependable business services and support structures.
Commercial Offices
Some of Dubai Knowledge Park’s top clients, such as Palladium, Hewitt, Gallup, Hays and Towers Watson use the commercial offices. These are unfurnished floor/office spaces in DKP, rented out to businesses who can then furnish them to suit their business requirements.
D/Quarters
D/Quarters is a unique co-working space that suits the ever-evolving work global work culture. It offers a flexible solution for professionals, entrepreneurs and startups looking for a collaborative environment.
It’s equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to enhance the working experience such as meeting rooms, private phone booths, recreational areas, high-speed internet, space for workshops and other corporate events.
- D/Quarter Charges:
- Open Quarters: AED 1,000 per month
- Desk Quarters: AED 3,000 per month
- Office Quarters: AED 4,500 per month
Go Freelance
GoFreelance offers a compelling platform for design, media and education professionals who seek to thrive as independent freelancers. With a holistic approach, it ensures that every freelancer leverages their skill effectively to build a fulfilling and successful career in Dubai.
GoFreelance Visa Fee and Requirements
Being a part of the GoFreelance community may open a pathway to get a freelance visa in Dubai. Here are the visa fees and requirements:
- GoFreelance Visa Fee:
- 1-year freelance visa: AED 4,600
- 2-year visa: AED 5,042
- GoFreelance Visa Requirements:
- Freelance licence
- Establishment Card for AED 2,000
- UAE phone number
- Valid medical insurance
- Original passport
- Passport photo
Please note that other documentation might be required for the freelance visa process and additional fees may be applicable.
Marketplace.ae
Another advantage of being a GoFreelance member is that you can get access to marketplace.ae. An online platform that helps you bid on projects you wish to work on and find other opportunities that match your skillset in a wide network.
in5
TECOM’s in5 is an integrated platform for innovation, which provides start-ups and new entrepreneurs with a balanced ecosystem for growth. Here young businesses are incubated with the support of specialised design, technology and media-related facilities.
AXS
Business owners in Dubai Knowledge Park receive specialised support in setting up businesses and accessing government services through ‘axs’. Whether it’s getting permits and NOCs or assistance with the visa process, ‘axs’ has you covered.
DKP services don’t just end up providing you with a space for your business. This free zone in Dubai goes the extra mile to provide additional benefits in the form of business development, marketing and other corporate support to their partners.
Training Facilities and Universities in Dubai Knowledge Park
The Dubai Knowledge Park started as the central hub for the top national and international universities in the emirate. Over time, however, the district has become more inclined towards providing human resource management and professional learning services.
Most top universities in Dubai that were once found in Dubai Knowledge Village have now moved to the Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), except:
- Middlesex University Dubai
- University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)
- University of Bradford Dubai
- University of Manchester, Middle East Centre
Educational services now offered at DKP focus on specialisations and the growing needs of knowledge-based economies. The courses, training and learning institutions range from excelling in business management and engineering to the basics of corporate IT.
There are over 500 languages, HR, consultancy, research and development and executive search companies in Dubai Knowledge Park. Each provides a multitude of specialised courses for professional grooming and excellence.
Notable institutes in DKP include:
- SAE Institute Dubai
- Eton Institute
- Institute of Knowledge and Leadership
- International Centre for Culinary Arts
Networking Events in Dubai Knowledge Park
Whether you’re a student, a seasoned entrepreneur, or someone who has just set up a business startup in Dubai, networking is an integral part of your professional growth. DKP conducts signature networking year-round to facilitate its business community, students and other stakeholders. Their popular networking events include:
- The International University Partnerships (I-UP) Forum
- The DKP Training Open Week
- The TECOM SME Builder
- The DKP Breakfast Club
Other Services in Dubai Knowledge Park
Retail Spaces and Kiosks
DKP has evolved into a self-sufficient community. It offers a variety of retail outlets that provide ancillary services to the leading businesses and universities operating in the area. Some of these retail spaces include:
- Mediclinic Al Sufouh
- Emirates Driving Institute
- Pharma Zone Pharmacy
- Beauty salons
- Sound stage studio
- A 24-hour convenience store
- Travel centres
- Car rental facilities
- Vending machines
- Amphitheatre
- Auditorium
- Outdoor activities
- Photocopy centres and more
Eateries
Since its inauguration, many restaurants have popped up in Dubai Knowledge Park. The area now has Ghazania Restaurant, Skyler’s Grill & Bake and Filli Cafe apart from the Dubai Knowledge Park Food Court.
Other speciality eateries like Costa Coffee, Kitty’s Cafe and Chuno Deli have also opened up. The kiosks in DKP are usually rented to newsagents, juice and coffee vendors.
FAQs About Dubai Knowledge Park
What is the old name for Dubai Knowledge Park?
The Dubai Knowledge Park was previously called the Dubai Knowledge Village.
How long does it take to commute to popular destinations from Dubai Knowledge Park?
By car, it takes approximately 18 minutes to reach Dubai Mall, 8 minutes to Palm Jumeirah, 14 minutes to Burj Al Arab and 12 minutes to The Walk JBR.
How close is Dubai Knowledge Park to the airports?
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is roughly a 26-minute drive away, while the Al Maktoum International Airport is approximately 35 minutes’ drive away.
What is the contact number and Dubai Knowledge Park location?
- Contact: +971-4-390-1111
- Email: info@dkp.ae
- Directions: Located on Al Sufouh Road, DKP is easily accessible via Al Khail. Sheikh Zayed, Emirate and Mohammed Bin Zayed Roads. When coming from Dubai Marina take the first right on Al Sufouh Road, immediately after the Palm Jumeirah Flyover.
This concludes our guide to Dubai Knowledge Park – a complete destination for anyone seeking quality higher education or a chance to hone their professional, lingual and overall skills to succeed.
While this free zone district in Dubai provides a valuable blend of facilities, there is no independent housing available in the area.
If you want to know what is a free zone in Dubai, you can refer to our guide. Thankfully, many areas provide affordable apartments for rent near Dubai Knowledge Park.
