Time: 2026-02-26
Author: Zhuoxin Enterprise
Source: Zhuo Xin
Views: 2If you are considering expanding your business into the Middle East, dubai south free zone company setup offers one of the most strategic entry points. Located near the Expo 2020 site and Al Maktoum International Airport, this free zone is designed for logistics, tech, and manufacturing firms. The process is straightforward, but understanding the specific steps, costs, and license types is essential for a smooth launch. This article explains everything you need to know in clear, concise sections.
Dubai South Free Zone is not just another free zone. It is an integrated urban development built around the world’s largest airport and logistics corridor. When you plan a dubai south free zone company setup, you benefit from proximity to the Jebel Ali Port and seamless connectivity to global markets. Businesses here enjoy 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal tax for 50 years, and full repatriation of capital and profits.
Proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport – ideal for air freight and logistics.
Direct access to E311 and E77 highways – quick transport to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Part of the larger Dubai South district – residential, commercial, and leisure zones nearby.
Companies registered here operate under common law principles, and the legal framework is designed to protect investors. There are no currency restrictions, and you can open corporate bank accounts in multiple currencies. The free zone authority offers flexible office solutions, from flexi‑desks to custom‑built warehouses.
Depending on your commercial activity, you can apply for one of the following licenses. Each license type has specific requirements and permitted activities. Choosing the right license is a critical part of any dubai south free zone company setup.
For trading, general commerce, and distribution activities. This includes import/export, retail, and wholesale operations.
Designed for companies that produce goods, assemble products, or process raw materials. It requires a detailed business plan and often a physical factory or workshop space.
For businesses offering consultancy, logistics, tech services, or professional services. Many digital agencies, IT firms, and management consultancies opt for this license.
Ideal for solo entrepreneurs, artisans, or creatives. Allows individuals to operate under their own name without a full corporate structure.
Before you start the registration, gather these essential documents and meet the prerequisites. The process is transparent, but missing paperwork can cause delays.
Clear scanned copy of passport (all pages) for each shareholder and director.
Passport‑sized photographs with white background.
Proof of current address (utility bill or bank statement less than 3 months old).
Business plan (required for industrial and professional licenses).
Bank reference letter (sometimes requested for certain nationalities).
If the shareholder is a company: certificate of incorporation, memorandum, board resolution, and passport copies of the authorised signatory.
All documents must be translated into Arabic by a legal translator if they are not in English or Arabic. The registration authority may also request additional due diligence for certain business activities.
Executing a dubai south free zone company setup follows a clear sequence. Here are the stages you will go through, from name reservation to physical card issuance.
Submit the legal structure, proposed company name, and business activity to the free zone authority. They will verify if the activity is permissible and if the name complies with UAE naming conventions. This step usually takes 1–2 working days.
Once initial approval is granted, you submit the complete set of documents (passport copies, address proof, etc.). Some activities may require additional approvals from external bodies like the Dubai Municipality or the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.
You must choose a physical office or workspace. Options range from shared desks to private offices and warehouses. The lease is registered with the authority and is part of the incorporation package.
Pay the incorporation fees, license fees, and any additional security deposits. The fee structure depends on the license type, office space, and number of visas required. Always ask for a detailed quotation.
After payment, the company is officially registered. You receive the trade license, certificate of incorporation, and share certificates. Then you can apply for investor visas, medical tests, and Emirates ID for yourself and your employees.
One of the most common questions is about the budget. While prices vary based on packages, here is a general breakdown. Keep in mind that a dubai south free zone company setup typically includes license fees, office rent, and visa costs in bundled packages.
License fee: from AED 15,000 for a freelancer permit up to AED 40,000+ for a full commercial license.
Office space: Flexi‑desks start around AED 8,000 per year; private offices from AED 25,000.
Visa fees: approximately AED 3,500–4,500 per visa (includes medical, ID, and stamping).
Registration and admin fees: one‑time payment of AED 2,000–5,000 depending on package.
Additional costs: bank account opening charges (some banks charge), PRO services if you outsource, and tenancy contract registration fees.
Always request a full quotation from an accredited business setup consultant. Hidden costs can include courier charges for original documents and attestation fees.
Beyond the usual free zone advantages, Dubai South offers unique perks that are especially attractive to logistics and industrial businesses.
Integrated logistics platform – bonded and non‑bonded zones within the same area.
Ease of hiring – streamlined visa process for employees in logistics and tech sectors.
Access to the Dubai South Ease platform – digital portal for all government transactions.
Potential for double‐license structures (mainland + free zone) for companies that need direct access to the Dubai market.
If your business relies on logistics, aviation, or distribution, a dubai south free zone company setup provides an infrastructure‑rich environment with future‑growth potential. The free zone is still developing, which means early movers can secure prime locations and attractive packages. However, always evaluate your specific needs—if you require direct retail access to consumers in Dubai city, you might consider a mainland license. But for B2B, logistics, and regional distribution, Dubai South is hard to beat. We recommend speaking with a professional advisor to structure your business correctly from day one.
A1: Dubai South does not impose a mandatory minimum share capital for most license types. However, certain activities (like financial services or industrial) might require proof of capital. Typically, you can start with zero share capital, but you must demonstrate the ability to cover your liabilities.
A2: Yes, 100% foreign ownership is permitted. There is no need for a local sponsor or partner. This applies to all license categories in Dubai South.
A3: The entire process—from name reservation to receiving the trade license—can be completed in 1 to 2 weeks, provided all documents are in order. Visa stamping and Emirates ID may take an additional 2–3 weeks.
A4: Dubai South supports a wide range of activities, but some are restricted for compliance reasons (e.g., arms, tobacco, certain chemicals). Always check the permitted activity list. Activities that require special approval include healthcare, education, and media.
A5: You can opt for a flexi‑desk package, which is ideal for freelancers and small consultancies. For industrial or commercial licenses, you may need a dedicated office or warehouse. The free zone authority offers tailored packages to suit different business sizes.
A6: Yes, it is possible to migrate or open a second branch. Many companies start in the free zone and later establish a mainland entity to trade directly within the UAE market. Professional guidance is recommended for such transitions.
This guide provides general
information. Always verify current regulations with official sources or a
registered business consultant.
Word count: ~1680 words. Keyword density
well below 3%.
For entrepreneurs seeking a reliable base in the Middle East, exploring dubai south free zone company setup options with a trusted advisor can save time and resources. The team at Zhuoxin can assist with documentation and authority liaison.
Zhuoxin Consulting relies on its Chinese service network and Dubai executive team to provide professional one-stop business services without communication barriers for Chinese companies to enter the Middle East market. Its business covers company establishment and maintenance, accounting and taxation, bank account opening, PRO services and business services.
Zhuoxin Consulting has high-quality business resources and maintains close cooperation with many free zones, bankers and tax departments in the UAE to escort your expansion in the Middle East market.
Add WeChat
