What is Dubai South Free Zone?

Dubai South Free Zone is a UAE free zone built around Al Maktoum International Airport, formerly known as Dubai World Central (DWC), offering 100% foreign ownership across aviation, logistics, e-commerce, trading and professional-services activities.

How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai South?

Licences start from around AED 8,500 for commercial and service activities. Final cost depends on your chosen district, business activity, and the number of visas required — Evolva provides a transparent, itemised quote.

How long does it take to get a Dubai South business licence?

Licence issuance is typically completed within 1–5 working days of a complete application, depending on the activity and district.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Dubai South company?

Yes. Dubai South allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a UAE national partner or sponsor.

What business activities are permitted in Dubai South?

Dubai South licenses aviation, logistics, e-commerce, general trading, professional services and light industrial activities, among others. Evolva can confirm whether your specific activity is available.

What documents do I need to set up a company in Dubai South?

Each shareholder needs a completed application form, passport copy, passport photograph, proof of residential address, and — for certain activities — a brief business plan. Three company name options are also required.

Is Dubai South close to the rest of Dubai?

Yes — Dubai South sits next to Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City Dubai, with direct highway access to the rest of the emirate.

Dubai South Free Zone

An integrated airport, logistics and business-park ecosystem next to Al Maktoum International Airport.

Starting from: AED 8,500Show prices in
Timeline: 1–5 working days
Authority: Dubai South Free Zone Authority (DSFZA)

View all Freezone options

Foreign ownership: 100%
Personal & corporate tax: 0%
Approved business activities: 2,500+
Profit repatriation: 100%

Overview

Dubai South Free Zone began life as Dubai World Central (DWC) in 2006 and was rebranded Dubai South in 2015. It is built directly around Al Maktoum International Airport — planned to become the world's largest airport once fully built out — and sits next to Expo City Dubai, giving it a physical connection to Dubai's aviation and cargo infrastructure that few other free zones can match. Evolva can guide you through company formation in Dubai South Free Zone from activity selection through to licence issuance.

The free zone is organised into dedicated districts — including a Business Park, Logistics District, Aviation District and Residential District — making it a natural base for aviation, logistics and supply-chain, e-commerce fulfilment, and light industrial businesses, alongside general commercial and professional services companies.

Why Choose Dubai South Free Zone?

Dubai South combines standard free zone benefits with direct access to airport, cargo and Expo City infrastructure.

100%

Foreign Ownership

Full foreign ownership with no requirement for a local UAE partner or sponsor.

No Corporate or Personal Tax

No corporate or personal income taxes on qualifying free zone activities.

Airport-Adjacent Location

Direct proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport and its cargo terminals, ideal for aviation, logistics and e-commerce businesses.

Purpose-Built Districts

Dedicated Business Park, Logistics District and Aviation District let you set up close to the infrastructure your activity depends on.

100%

Profit Repatriation

Transfer 100% of capital and profits back to your home country with no restrictions.

Expo City Dubai Neighbour

Sits alongside Expo City Dubai, one of the emirate's newest mixed-use and innovation districts.

Indicative Visa Costs

Typical costs associated with obtaining a UAE residence visa through your Dubai South company.

Visa Component	Estimated Cost (AED)
Entry permit	350–1,200
Medical fitness test	250–500
Emirates ID (2-year)	250–575
Visa stamping	500–1,200

Figures are indicative and subject to authority changes — confirm current fees with your consultant.

Activities Permitted in Dubai South Free Zone

Dubai South licenses a broad range of activities across its districts, including:

Aviation & Aerospace — MRO, ground handling, aviation-related services
Logistics & Supply Chain — freight forwarding, warehousing, distribution
E-commerce — online retail, fulfilment and last-mile delivery
General Trading — import, export and re-export of goods
Commercial & Professional Services — consultancy, management and business services
Light Industrial — assembly, packaging and light manufacturing

This list is indicative and not exhaustive — Evolva can confirm whether your specific activity is licensable in Dubai South.

Documents Required for Company Setup in Dubai South

You can register your Dubai South company as an FZE (single shareholder), an FZC/FZCO (multiple shareholders), or as a branch of a foreign or UAE company.

Per Shareholder / Director

Completed application form
Copy of passport
Passport-sized photograph
Three company name options
Proof of residential address
Copy of Emirates ID and visa (if already a UAE resident)

For Regulated or Higher-Value Activities

Brief business plan
Bank reference letter
NOC from current UAE sponsor (if applicable)

Why Choose Evolva for Your Dubai South Setup?

Dubai South's district structure means picking the right zone matters as much as picking the right licence — Evolva helps you get both right.

District & Activity Guidance

We help you choose the district and licence that actually fit your business model, not just the cheapest package.

Clients From 100+ Countries

We have assisted entrepreneurs and businesses from over 100 countries around the world.

Fully Transparent Pricing

You know exactly what your Dubai South setup will cost — licence, registration, visas and our service fee — before you commit.

One Dedicated Consultant

A single point of contact manages your case from consultation through to licence delivery.

End-to-End Support

Licence application, document preparation, government liaison, visa processing and bank account introduction, all handled for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to start your Dubai South Free Zone setup?

Speak to an Evolva consultant for a tailored quote and a clear timeline.

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The experts at Evolva are seasoned professionals in business setup, accounting, and auditing services. They are skilled at providing unique, tailored solutions to every client, and are always ready to answer any questions you may have.