International Humanitarian City Business Setup
Set up your company in the world’s largest humanitarian hub and access global aid and relief markets with ease. Start your journey with Ideas Business Setup Expert today.
Fast & simplified company registration | 100% foreign ownership available | Strategic global logistics hub
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International Humanitarian City (IHC)
International Humanitarian City (IHC) in Dubai is a dedicated free zone designed to support humanitarian aid, disaster response, and global relief operations. Established to facilitate rapid logistics and relief operations worldwide, IHC is home to numerous international NGOs, UN agencies, and private sector companies specializing in humanitarian services.
If you are planning to set up a company in a UAE free zone, IHC offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with global humanitarian organizations and gain access to strategic logistics channels. For more general insights on free zone advantages, you can explore our guide on Free Zone Business Setup in UAE.
Why Choose International Humanitarian City for Business Setup?
IHC is not just a free zone—it’s a strategic platform for humanitarian and commercial enterprises.
- Strategic Location: Close to Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port.
- World-Class Infrastructure: Purpose-built facilities for warehousing, offices, and logistics.
- Global Networking: Collaborate with UN agencies, NGOs, and relief suppliers.
You may also want to see how it compares with other popular Dubai zones such as Jebel Ali Free Zone or Dubai South Free Zone.
Types of Businesses Allowed in IHC
Businesses in IHC focus on humanitarian and relief-related services, but the free zone is also open to supporting sectors:
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
- Charitable foundations
- Humanitarian suppliers
- Logistics and freight forwarding companies
- Medical aid and healthcare service providers
Other zones with specialized industries include Dubai Healthcare City for medical companies and Dubai Logistics City for logistics operators.
Step-by-Step Process for Business Setup in IHC
Setting up a business in IHC is straightforward if done with proper guidance. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Benefits of Setting up a Business in IHC
Setting up your company in IHC comes with multiple benefits:
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital
- Strategic Humanitarian Logistics Hub
- No Import or Export Duties
- Networking with UN and International Relief Agencies
For entrepreneurs seeking alternative zones, Dubai Internet City and Dubai Design District also offer specialized ecosystems.
License Types and Activities in IHC
IHC offers several license categories:
- Commercial License – For trading humanitarian goods and relief supplies.
- Service License – For consultancy, logistics, and support services.
- Humanitarian Organization License – For NGOs, UN agencies, and charities.
Other free zones with specific licenses include Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai Production City.
Costs of Business Setup in IHC
| Cost Component | Estimated Range (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| License Fee | 25,000 – 35,000 | Annual license fee based on chosen activity |
| Office/Warehouse Lease | 15,000 – 80,000+ | Depends on office size or warehouse capacity |
| Registration Fee | 5,000 – 10,000 | One-time registration and incorporation charges |
| Visa Processing (per visa) | 3,500 – 5,000 | Based on number of visas allocated |
| Bank Account Setup | 1,500 – 3,000 | Varies as per bank policies |
| Miscellaneous & Admin Costs | 2,000 – 5,000 | Includes documentation, PRO, and legal services |
These figures are indicative and may differ depending on your business activity, chosen office type, and number of employees. If you wish to explore more about costs across other UAE free zones, you can visit our guide on Free Zone Business Setup Cost in UAE for a detailed comparison.
Documents Required for IHC Company Registration
Generally, the following documents are required:
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Business plan for humanitarian-related activities
- Memorandum of Association (MoA)
- Application form and name reservation documents
- Proof of address
Read more:
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Visa Options for Entrepreneurs and Employees
Visa quotas depend on your chosen facility size. Entrepreneurs can apply for investor visas, while employees can obtain work visas.
- Investor Visa – Ideal for company owners. See more about Free Zone Investor Visa UAE.
- Employment Visa – For skilled professionals and support staff.
If you are a foreigner starting a business, visit: Start Business as Foreigner in UAE.
Bank Account Opening for IHC Companies
Opening a bank account in the UAE for IHC companies is straightforward when you provide the required documentation:
- Valid trade license
- Company incorporation documents
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
Explore detailed steps here: Bank Account Opening for Free Zone Business.
Comparison with Other Free Zones
International Humanitarian City focuses on humanitarian and aid-related sectors. However, if your business is better suited for other industries, you can explore:
- Dubai World Trade Centre Free Zone– Events and exhibitions
- Dubai Maritime City– Marine and shipping
- Dubai Textile City– Textile trade
- Dubai Science Park– Science and R&D
- Dubai Technopark– Industrial innovation
Each zone has unique benefits and sector focus.
How Ideas Business Setup Expert Helps You
At Ideas Business Setup Expert, we specialize in hassle-free company formation across all UAE free zones, including IHC.
- Comprehensive consultation for choosing the right license
- End-to-end documentation and application support
- Bank account and visa assistance
- Tailored solutions for NGOs and humanitarian organizations
We have helped numerous clients establish their presence in areas like Dubai Auto Zone, Dubai Enpark, and Dubai Flower Centre.
Setting up your company in the International Humanitarian City opens doors to global humanitarian operations and strategic business opportunities. Whether you are a relief organization, a logistics provider, or a supplier, IHC provides the ideal ecosystem to thrive.
Ready to start your business journey?
Contact Ideas Business Setup Expert today and let us handle your company formation from start to finish.
Yes, IHC allows 100% foreign ownership, making it attractive for international investors and NGOs who want full control over their operations.
With proper documentation, the process can take 2–4 weeks, depending on license type and approvals required. Working with a business setup consultant can significantly speed up this process.
IHC is designed primarily for humanitarian, charitable, and relief-related businesses, but it also supports logistics, supply chain, and service providers that assist humanitarian missions globally.
