Overview

Dubai South Free Zone is a large-scale economic zone developed around Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. Spanning approximately 145 km²—almost twice the size of Hong Kong Island—it supports logistics, aviation, commercial, exhibition, humanitarian, residential, and related industries.

Key Features & Capacity

  • Annual cargo capacity: 12 million tonnes
  • Passenger capacity: 160 million per year
  • Direct access to Jebel Ali Port and Al Maktoum Airport

Master-Planned Districts

  • Aviation District – 6.7 km² hub for aviation services, home to Dubai Airshow and VIP Terminal.
  • Logistics District – multimodal facilities designed for freight, supply chain and warehousing; airside airport access.
  • Business Park – flexible offices catering to startups, SMEs and large corporations; business centre operates 24/7.

Business & Tax Benefits

  • 100% foreign ownership
  • Full capital & profit repatriation
  • 0% corporate and personal income tax for up to 50 years (renewable)
  • 0% customs duties
  • No currency restrictions, no minimum share capital
  • Flexible commercial leases and minimal documentation

License Types Available

  • Industrial License – light manufacturing activities
  • Logistics License – logistics and freight-forwarding services
  • Trading & General Trading License – import, export, distribution, local sales via distributor
  • Service License – professional services both inside Dubai South and across the UAE
  • Education License – educational consultancy, training, and social services

Setup Process & Requirements

  • Required documents include passport copy, UAE entry stamp/visa, shareholding details, company name choices, business activity description, and utility bill
  • Steps: Apply > Get Approvals > Submit & Pay > Receive Registration, License, Lease

Workspace Options

  • Flexi desk – mobile desk option; visa allowance up to 2 visas
  • Smart desk/office – packages from AED 39,900 to AED 95,000; includes shared and private furnished office
  • Permanent Smart Office – full-time furnished office with booking access to conference rooms

Dubai South Free Zone is a flagship project of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aligning with the Dubai Plan 2021 to foster a smart, cohesive, and globally connected city.

For tailored business setup solutions in Dubai South, feel free to contact us.