Dubai · UAE Free Zone
International Humanitarian City
The World's Largest Humanitarian Hub
Zone at a glance
Relative rating across UAE free zones, scored out of five.
Overview
About IHC
International Humanitarian City (IHC) is the world's largest humanitarian hub, established to support global humanitarian and development organizations. Located in Dubai, IHC provides a strategic base for humanitarian operations across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, offering specialized facilities and services for NGOs, UN agencies, and international relief organizations.
Location & Connectivity
Nearest Airport
Dubai International Airport
15 km away
Address
International Humanitarian City, Dubai, UAE
Total Area
2.2 million square feet
Nearby Landmarks
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Sectors
Key Industries
Ideal For
Licensing
License Types & Costs
Humanitarian License
For international humanitarian and development organizations
Activities Allowed
Humanitarian services, relief operations, development programs, capacity building
Non-Profit License
For registered non-profit organizations and NGOs
Activities Allowed
Non-profit activities, community development, social services, advocacy
Support Services License
For organizations providing support services to humanitarian sector
Activities Allowed
Consulting, logistics support, training services, technical assistance
Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Annual Renewal
Starting from AED 15,000
Validity
1 year, renewable
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Residency
Visa Information
Available for humanitarian organizations, UN agencies, and registered NGOs
2-3 visas
Desk Space
5-8 visas
Small Office
10-15 visas
Medium Office
20+ visas
Large Office
Investment
Estimated Costs
Costs vary based on organization type and size. Special rates available for UN agencies and registered international NGOs.
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Assessment
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- World's largest humanitarian hub with specialized facilities
- Strategic location for Middle East, Africa, and Asia operations
- Preferential rates for humanitarian organizations
- Strong network of international humanitarian partners
- Specialized logistics and warehousing facilities
- Tax exemptions for registered humanitarian entities
- Streamlined processes for UN agencies and NGOs
- Access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure
Considerations
- Limited to humanitarian and development organizations only
- Longer processing times compared to commercial free zones
- Restricted commercial activities
- Limited visa quotas for smaller organizations
- Requires proof of humanitarian mandate and funding
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Advantages
Why Choose IHC?
Best For
- Humanitarian Organizations
- UN Agencies
- International NGOs
- Development Organizations
- Relief Operations
Not Ideal For
- Commercial Businesses
- Trading Companies
- Manufacturing
- Retail Operations
- Financial Services
Last reviewed: December 2025. Figures are indicative and confirmed in a tailored quote.
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