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Dubai South (DWC)

The Future of Aviation and Logistics

Established

2006

Companies

Over 2,500 companies

Location

Dubai

About Dubai South

Dubai South is a master-planned city and free zone built around Al Maktoum International Airport, designed to become the world's largest airport city. It serves as a global hub for aviation, logistics, and residential communities, offering comprehensive business solutions with world-class infrastructure.

Governing Authority:Dubai South Authority
Official Website

Interested in setting up in Dubai South?

Let's discuss your requirements and find the best solution for your business.

Key Industries

Aviation
Logistics and Supply Chain
Aerospace
E-commerce
Manufacturing
Trading

Ideal For

Import/Export businessesLogistics companiesAviation servicesE-commerce platformsManufacturing unitsDistribution centers

License Types & Costs

Trading License

For import, export, and distribution of goods

Starting from

18,500

AED

Activities Allowed

General trading, import/export, wholesale, retail

Service License

For providing professional and commercial services

Starting from

16,500

AED

Activities Allowed

Consulting, IT services, marketing, logistics services

Industrial License

For manufacturing and industrial activities

Starting from

22,500

AED

Activities Allowed

Manufacturing, assembly, processing, packaging

Processing Time

5-7 working days

Annual Renewal

Same as initial license fee

Validity

1 year, renewable

Need help choosing the right license type?

Our experts can guide you through the licensing options and help you select the best fit.

Visa Information

Available for shareholders, employees, and dependents of licensed companies

2 visas

Flexi Desk

4-6 visas

Private Office

Unlimited based on business needs

Warehouse

Investor VisaEmployee VisaDependent VisaGolden Visa (eligible investors)
Processing:7-10 working days
Golden Visa Eligible

Estimated Costs

License Fee
From 16,500 AED
Visa (per person)
~4,500 AED
Office Space
From 8,500 AED/year
Estimated First Year Total
35,000 - 85,000 AED
Approximate

Costs vary based on business activity, office type, and number of visas required. Additional fees may apply for specific services.

Want a detailed cost breakdown for your business?

Request a personalized quote tailored to your specific business needs.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Strategic location at Al Maktoum International Airport
  • World-class logistics and cargo infrastructure
  • Excellent connectivity for international trade
  • Modern facilities and smart city infrastructure
  • Strong government support and vision
  • Ideal for e-commerce and logistics businesses
  • Access to growing aviation sector
  • Flexible office and warehouse solutions

Considerations

  • Higher costs compared to some other free zones
  • Distance from Dubai's main business districts
  • Still developing compared to established free zones
  • Limited public transportation options

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose Dubai South?

100% foreign ownership with no local sponsor required
Zero corporate tax on qualifying income
Full repatriation of capital and profits
No currency or exchange restrictions
World-class infrastructure and connectivity
Streamlined business registration process

Best For

  • Logistics companies
  • E-commerce businesses
  • Aviation services
  • Import/export traders
  • Manufacturing units

Not Ideal For

  • Small service businesses on tight budgets
  • Businesses not requiring logistics advantages
  • Companies focused solely on local UAE market

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