Dubai South Free Zone Company Setup
Dubai South Free Zone is ideal for aviation, logistics, trading, and industrial businesses that need space, scalability, and direct access to Al Maktoum International Airport. We help you understand exact setup costs, license options, office needs, and visa eligibility, with end-to-end support.
✓ Next to Al Maktoum Airport
✓ For logistics, trade, and aviation
✓ Offices with visa eligibility
✓ Clear costs, fast approvals
About Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South Free Zone is a purpose-built business district designed for companies involved in logistics, aviation, trading, and global supply chains. Located next to Al Maktoum International Airport and close to major ports, it offers a strategic base for businesses that rely on international connectivity.
Dubai South gained global attention as the host district for Expo 2020, reinforcing its role as a long-term economic and commercial hub. Today, the free zone supports scalable business operations with modern infrastructure, clear regulations, and direct access to air, land, and sea routes.
Businesses choosing Dubai South Free Zone company setup benefit from a location focused on future growth, international trade, and operational efficiency. It is especially suited for companies that need space to expand, move goods efficiently, and operate with regional and global reach.
Cost of Setting Up a Company in Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South is priced for operational businesses, not virtual setups. Costs depend on license type, office size, and visa needs.
License Fee Range
Company license costs in Dubai South Free Zone usually start from AED 12,000 to AED 20,000 per year, depending on the activity and license category.
Office / Desk Cost Range
Dubai South requires a physical address.
Flexi desks typically start from AED 8,000–12,000 annually, while private offices and warehouses range higher based on size and zone.
Visa Cost Range
Visa costs generally fall between AED 3,500 and AED 5,000 per visa, including medical, Emirates ID, and immigration fees.
Why Dubai South Is Priced This Way
Dubai South focuses on infrastructure-heavy businesses. Large land availability, logistics zones, and airport access make it a premium choice for companies planning long-term operations.
License Types in Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South supports business activities linked to trade, logistics, and industrial operations.
Trading / Commercial License
Best for import, export, distribution, and regional trading companies operating across the UAE and internationally.
Service / Professional License
Suitable for consulting, management services, aviation support services, and operational service providers.
Industrial / Logistics License
Designed for manufacturing, assembly, warehousing, aviation support, and logistics businesses that need space and regulatory approvals.
Dubai South Free Zone Company Formation Process
The setup process is structured and transparent when documents are ready.
Activity Selection and Name Approval
You choose approved business activities and reserve a compliant trade name through Dubai South Authority.
Office Selection (Mandatory)
An office, desk, or warehouse lease is required before license issuance. Packages vary by activity type.
License Issuance Timeline
Once documents and lease are submitted, licenses are usually issued within 7–10 working days.
Visa Allocation, Medical, and Emirates ID
Visa eligibility depends on office size and license type. Medical tests and Emirates ID are mandatory.
Bank Account Support
After license issuance, you can apply for a UAE corporate bank account. Physical presence is often required.
Office Space Requirement in Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South does not allow paper-only or virtual offices.
Flexi Desk vs Private Office
Flexi desks suit startups and small teams. Private offices and warehouses suit logistics, aviation, and industrial companies.
How Office Size Affects Visas
Larger office space allows more visas. Visa quotas are directly linked to leased area.
Visa Options in Dubai South Free Zone
Visa eligibility is one of the strongest reasons businesses choose Dubai South.
Investor Visa
Available for company owners and shareholders. Typically valid for 2–3 years.
Employee Visa
Issued based on office size and business activity. Suitable for operational and warehouse staff.
Dependent Visa
Investors and employees can sponsor family members after meeting salary criteria.
Typical Allocation Rules
Flexi desks allow limited visas. Offices and warehouses allow higher allocations based on square footage.
Dubai South Free Zone vs Other Dubai Free Zones
Dubai South is best for space-driven and logistics-focused businesses, unlike city-center free zones.
Compared to DMCC, Dubai South offers larger plots and lower industrial costs.
Compared to Dubai Silicon Oasis, it is more logistics and aviation oriented.
Compared to Dubai Media City, it suits operational businesses rather than creative firms.
Company Structure Options in Dubai South Free Zone
Dubai South Free Zone offers flexible company structures to suit startups, growing businesses, and established companies expanding into the UAE. Each structure is designed to support different ownership and operational needs.
Single Shareholder Company
This option is ideal for entrepreneurs who want full ownership and control. It suits small to mid-sized businesses looking for a simple structure with clear decision-making authority.
Multiple Shareholder Company
Businesses with two or more partners can register under a shared ownership structure. This setup works well for joint ventures and companies where responsibilities and investment are shared.
UAE Company Branch
Companies already operating in the UAE can open a branch in Dubai South Free Zone. This allows expansion into a logistics-focused zone without creating a new legal entity.
Foreign Company Branch
International companies can establish a branch office in Dubai South to access the UAE and regional markets. This structure is suitable for businesses that want a presence in Dubai without full incorporation.
Choosing the right Dubai South Free Zone company structure depends on your ownership plans, business activity, and expansion goals.
Documents Required for Dubai South Free Zone Company Setup
To complete your Dubai South Free Zone company setup, you need to prepare a standard set of documents. Having these ready helps avoid delays during approval.
Business License Application Form
A completed application form stating your business activity and company details.
Passport Copies of Shareholders and Managers
Clear passport copies for all shareholders and appointed managers.
UAE Visa or Entry Stamp (if applicable)
Required if any shareholder or manager is already inside the UAE.
Emirates ID Copy (if available)
Mandatory for UAE residents involved in the company.
Business Plan (Service Activities Only)
Required for service or professional licenses to explain operations and scope.
Signed Dubai South Terms & Conditions
Acceptance of Dubai South Free Zone (DWC) authority regulations.
Specimen Signature Form
Used for verification during licensing and banking processes.
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Defines ownership structure and company responsibilities.
Once submitted, initial approval usually takes 10–15 working days, followed by license issuance. Timelines may vary based on document readiness and activity type.
Start Your Dubai South Free Zone Company Setup Today
We help you choose the right license, control setup costs, secure office space, and handle visas and banking, without confusion or delays.
Talk to our consultants today for a clear Dubai South Free Zone setup plan tailored to your business goals.