The Future of Trade. Your Global Logistics Hub.
Position your business at the heart of global commerce. Dubai South is a 145 sq-km master-planned city offering 0% corporate tax, 100% ownership, and direct access to Al Maktoum Airport and Jebel Ali Port.
Master-Planned City
145 sq-km
Business Activities
2,500+
Corporate Tax
0% on Qualifying Income
Global Connectivity
Air, Sea & Land Hub
Foreign Ownership
100% Permitted
Welcome to Dubai's Aerotropolis
Dubai South is a strategic Dubai Government initiative built to be the world's premier logistics and aviation ecosystem. Centered around Al Maktoum International Airport, this integrated city provides a dynamic environment for businesses in logistics, e-commerce, and aviation to thrive, offering unparalleled infrastructure and streamlined business support.
Jurisdiction Key Facts
- Strategic Location
- Adjacent to Al Maktoum Airport, with direct access to Jebel Ali Port
- Governing Authority
- Dubai South Authority
- Primary Focus
- Logistics, Aviation, E-commerce, Exhibitions
- Company Structures
- Free Zone Entities, Branches of Foreign & Local Companies
- Remote Setup
- Full remote company incorporation is available
- VAT Designated Zone
- Yes, for movement of physical goods
The Ultimate Strategic Advantage for Global Trade
Leverage an ecosystem designed for peak operational efficiency and financial growth.
Zero Corporate Tax
Qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on eligible income, maximizing your profitability in a pro-business environment.
100% Foreign Ownership & Profit Repatriation
Maintain full control of your business without a local sponsor and repatriate 100% of your capital and profits without restriction.
Unrivaled Multimodal Connectivity
Benefit from a dedicated logistics corridor connecting Al Maktoum Airport (air) and Jebel Ali Port (sea), creating a seamless global supply chain.
Streamlined One-Stop Shop
Accelerate your setup with an on-site authority managing all licensing, visa, and government services under one roof.
Dedicated Aviation & Logistics Districts
Operate within specialized zones offering world-class infrastructure, from airside facilities and hangars to scalable e-commerce fulfillment centers.
Integrated Live-Work-Play Environment
Attract and retain top talent with a master-planned city complete with residential, commercial, retail, and lifestyle amenities.
Transparent Pricing for Strategic Investment
Invest in a future-proof location with clear, competitive costs. All fees are in AED.
1-Visa Business License Package
Billed annually
- 1 Resident Visa(s)
- Flexi-Desk Facility (Annual)
- Trade License Fee (Annual)
- Flexi-Desk Facility (Annual)
- Establishment Card (Annual)
- All one-time setup fees included
AED Pricing
Transparent Pricing for Strategic Investment
Invest in a future-proof location with clear, competitive costs. All fees are in AED.
Total Estimated Cost (Year 1)
Estimated first-year setup fees derived from landing page content.
Cost Phase Timeline
Active Phase 1
One-Time Fees
AED 4,775
AED 4,672
Licenses Engineered for Your Business
Choose from a wide range of activities tailored to logistics, trade, and professional services.
Commercial License
Service License
Industrial License
Freelance Permit
Popular Business Activities in Dubai South
With over 2,500 approved activities, find the perfect fit for your enterprise.
Filter by Category
| Activity Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Storage & Warehousing | Logistics & Freight |
| Freight Forwarding & Clearing | Logistics & Freight |
| Transportation & Distribution | Logistics & Freight |
| General Trading | Commercial & Trading |
| E-commerce | Commercial & Trading |
| Import & Export | Commercial & Trading |
| Aviation Consultancy | Aviation & Aerospace |
| Aircraft Parts Trading | Aviation & Aerospace |
| Aviation Training | Aviation & Aerospace |
| Business Consultancy | Professional Services |
| Management Services | Professional Services |
| Marketing Management | Professional Services |
Your Express Path to Incorporation
Launch your Dubai South company through a clear, streamlined, and digitally integrated process.
Phase 1 Focus
Initial Approval
Initial Consultation & Application Submission
Our experts help you define your business activities and legal structure. Submit the initial application with shareholder details and reserve your trade name.
Document Submission & Payment
Submit required personal and corporate documents (passport copies, etc.). Once approved, you'll receive a payment voucher for all registration fees.
License & Immigration File Issuance
Upon payment, your official Trade License is issued. The system then automatically processes your company's Establishment Card for visa purposes.
Visa Processing
Apply for investor or employee visas. The process includes entry permit issuance, medical testing, Emirates ID biometrics, and final visa stamping.
Built for Leaders in Global Trade & Commerce
The Global Logistics Director
For MNCs needing to optimize MEASA supply chains, the integrated air-sea logistics corridor offers a game-changing reduction in transit times and operational costs.
Primary Benefit
Seamless Multimodal Platform
The E-commerce Entrepreneur
For growing online retailers, the specialized licenses and scalable warehousing in the Logistics District provide the perfect infrastructure for regional fulfillment.
Primary Benefit
Integrated E-commerce Ecosystem
The Aviation Services SME
For MRO, charter, or parts trading businesses, the Aviation District's airside facilities and proximity to the future's largest airport are unparalleled.
Primary Benefit
At the Heart of the Aviation Industry
The International Exhibitions Contractor
For event management and construction firms, being based next to Expo City Dubai provides the most efficient and logical base of operations.
Primary Benefit
Proximity to a Global Events Hub
Dubai South vs. The Alternatives
Understand how Dubai South's strategic focus on large-scale logistics and aviation provides a unique advantage.
| Feature Highlight | Dubai South | JAFZA | DAFZA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Integrated Air-Sea Logistics, Aviation & Aerotropolis | Sea-Land Logistics & Heavy Industry | Air Cargo & Premium Corporate Services |
| Primary Connectivity | Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) & Jebel Ali Port | Jebel Ali Port | Dubai International Airport (DXB) |
| Best For | Future-focused logistics, e-commerce fulfillment, aviation services | Large-scale trading, manufacturing, industrial operations | High-value goods, luxury brands, corporate HQs needing DXB access |
| Land Availability | Extensive plots available for development | Established but more limited | Very limited, primarily office space |
| Ecosystem Type | Master-planned city (live, work, play) | Primarily industrial and commercial | Primarily a corporate business park |
This is a general comparison for informational purposes. Each free zone has distinct advantages for specific business models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Secure Your Position in the Future of Global Trade
Don't just enter the market—dominate it from the region's most powerful logistics hub. Our advisors are ready to help you build your strategic advantage in Dubai South.
- No-obligation advice
- Transparent pricing quotes
- Expert guidance on activities & structure