Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone Company Setup (DSOA)
Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone (DSOA) is a technology-focused business zone in Dubai, designed for IT, innovation, trading, and service companies that want a real office presence and long-term operations. It is a regulated free zone with structured licensing, office facilities, and visa options.
✓ Tech-focused Dubai free zone
✓ Affordable setup options
✓ 100% foreign ownership
✓ Visa-enabled offices
About Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSOA) Free Zone
The Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSOA) is known for being a popular free zone famous worldwide for the technological innovation it supports. DSOA has a reputation for having modern infrastructure and lots of supportive services. They have everything in-house that supports businesses, which helps different kinds of business activities to flourish under Dubai Economic Department’s (DED) regulations. The DSOA has a good location as it’s just 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai. It also has excellent connectivity to seaports and airports, which is important for businesses. These factors contribute to the growth and success of the DSOA.
Why Choose Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone
Dubai Silicon Oasis is often selected by startups and growing companies that want a balance between cost control and business credibility.
Strategic Location Inside Dubai
DSOA is located about 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai and offers easy access to Dubai International Airport, seaports, and major highways, making it practical for daily operations and logistics.
Technology-Driven Business Environment
The free zone is designed to support IT companies, electronics firms, trading businesses, and service providers that require a modern, innovation-friendly setup.
Regulated and Business-Focused
DSOA operates under its own authority, offering structured licensing, compliance clarity, and long-term business continuity rather than short-term setups.
Cost of Setting Up a Company in Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone
The cost of company formation in Dubai Silicon Oasis depends on the license type, office size, and number of visas required.
Typical Cost Breakdown (First Year)
| Cost Component | Estimated Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License | 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Office / Flexi Desk | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Visa (per person) | 3,500 – 5,500 |
| Establishment & Registration Fees | 3,000 – 5,000 |
DSOA is considered a mid-range free zone. It is more affordable than premium zones like DMCC, but more structured than low-cost free zones.
Types of Licenses Available in Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis offers licenses that suit both technical and commercial businesses.
Commercial License
Best for trading, import-export, distribution, and general trading activities approved by DSOA.
Professional License
Suitable for IT services, consultancy, software development, technical support, and service-based companies.
Industrial License
Issued for light manufacturing, assembly, and technology-related production activities within approved limits.
Choosing the correct license is important because it directly affects bank approval, visa eligibility, and future scalability.
Office Space Requirements in Dubai Silicon Oasis
A physical office or flexi desk is mandatory in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Office Options
- Flexi desk solutions for small teams or startups
- Private offices for growing companies
- Larger units for manufacturing or tech operations
Visa Allocation Rules
The size of the office directly impacts how many visas your company can apply for. Larger offices allow higher visa quotas.
Visa Options in Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone
Dubai Silicon Oasis allows multiple visa types based on license and office size.
Investor Visa
Issued to shareholders and owners of the company.
Employee Visa
For staff hired under the DSOA company license.
Dependent Visa
Allows investors and employees to sponsor family members.
Visa allocation depends on office size, business activity, and DSOA approval.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Company Formation Process
The setup process in DSOA is structured and transparent.
Activity Selection
Choose a business activity approved by Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority.
Company Structure
Register as a Free Zone Establishment (single shareholder) or Free Zone Company (multiple shareholders).
Office Selection
Select a flexi desk or office space that matches your visa needs.
License Approval
Submit documents and obtain trade license approval from DSOA.
Visa & Bank Account
Apply for visas and proceed with corporate bank account opening.
Most companies complete the process within 3–4 weeks, depending on approvals and visa requirements.
Business Activities Allowed in Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis supports a wide range of activities, including:
- IT and software services
- Electronics and technology trading
- Consultancy and professional services
- Education and training services
- Light manufacturing and assembly
- Logistics, storage, and distribution
Activities must be approved by DSOA at the licensing stage.
Dubai Silicon Oasis vs Other Dubai Free Zones
| Feature | DSOA | DMCC | Dubai Internet City |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup Cost | Medium | High | High |
| Office Requirement | Mandatory | Mandatory | Mandatory |
| Best For | Tech, Trading, Services | Trading, Commodities | IT & Tech |
| Visa Flexibility | Good | Very Good | Moderate |
DSOA is often chosen by businesses that want structured operations without premium pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions About DSOA Free Zone
Is Dubai Silicon Oasis suitable for startups?
Yes. DSOA is suitable for startups that need a proper office, visas, and long-term scalability.
Can I own 100% of my DSOA company?
Yes. Dubai Silicon Oasis allows 100% foreign ownership.
Is a local sponsor required?
No. DSOA companies do not require a local sponsor.
Can I open a corporate bank account?
Yes. A DSOA license is accepted by UAE banks, subject to due diligence.
How long does company setup take?
Typically 3–4 weeks, depending on approvals and visa processing.
Can I get UAE residency through a DSOA company?
Yes. Investors and employees can obtain UAE residence visas through a Dubai Silicon Oasis company.
Company Setup Support by Gulf Corporate Services
Gulf Corporate Services provides end-to-end support for Dubai Silicon Oasis company formation.
We handle licensing, office coordination, visa processing, bank account assistance, and compliance support so you can focus on building your business.
Get a clear cost estimate and setup timeline before you start.
Contact Gulf Corporate Services today to begin your Dubai Silicon Oasis company setup with confidence.