Established
2003
Companies
Over 80 humanitarian organizations
Location
Dubai
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.
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Key Industries
Ideal For
License Types & Costs
Humanitarian License
For international humanitarian and development organizations
Starting from
25,000
AEDActivities Allowed
Humanitarian services, relief operations, development programs, capacity building
Non-Profit License
For registered non-profit organizations and NGOs
Starting from
20,000
AEDActivities Allowed
Non-profit activities, community development, social services, advocacy
Support Services License
For organizations providing support services to humanitarian sector
Starting from
30,000
AEDActivities Allowed
Consulting, logistics support, training services, technical assistance
Processing Time
4-6 weeks
Annual Renewal
AED 15,000 - AED 25,000
Validity
1 year, renewable
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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
Estimated Costs
Costs vary based on organization type and size. Special rates available for UN agencies and registered international NGOs.
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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
Frequently Asked Questions
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