Dubai South is one of the most prominent free zones in Dubai and has become a preferred destination for investors and entrepreneurs looking to establish their companies in a sophisticated and thriving business environment. The Dubai South Free Zone offers many advantages and opportunities that make it the ideal choice for launching commercial projects, including easy access to international markets, modern infrastructure, and a favorable business environment. Establishing a company in this free zone allows investors to benefit from tax exemptions, facilitating procedures, and easy financing, which enhances the chances of success and growth for companies. In this article, we will review the basic steps and procedures followed to establish a company in the Dubai South Free Zone , focusing on the benefits that this zone offers to new companies and how to make the most of them.
What is Dubai South?
Dubai South, formerly known as Dubai World Central, is a leading development in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai South is a strategic commercial and industrial zone that aims to promote economic growth and provide an integrated business environment. Located 40 kilometres south of Downtown Dubai, Dubai South covers a vast area of 145 square kilometres, making it one of the largest economic zones in the emirate.
Dubai South includes a wide range of specialized zones, including Dubai South Logistics, Airport City, and Exhibition City. These zones aim to support various sectors, including logistics, aviation, industry, and trade. The region also hosts Al Maktoum International Airport, which will be one of the largest international airports in the world upon completion, and is expected to play a major role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers.
Dubai South is characterized by its modern design and advanced infrastructure, including modern facilities that support innovation and technology. Among the prominent projects in Dubai South is the “Exhibition City”, which hosts a range of international events and exhibitions, enhancing Dubai’s position as a global center for exhibitions and conferences.
Dubai South also focuses on sustainability, with projects being implemented according to the highest environmental standards, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals. Consequently, Dubai South is a vital hub and preferred destination for commercial and industrial investments in Dubai, contributing to economic growth and reflecting Dubai’s future vision.
Basic steps to establish a company in Dubai South
Here are the basic steps to establish a company in Dubai South:
- Specify the type of company: Specify the type of company you wish to establish, such as a sole proprietorship, joint stock company, limited liability company, etc.
- Choose a business activity: Determine the business activity you want to conduct, and make sure it complies with local laws.
- Choosing a trade name: Choose a unique trade name and ensure that it complies with Dubai commercial registry regulations.
- Determine the geographical location: Determine the company’s location in the Dubai South area and ensure that it is suitable for the company’s activity.
- Submitting the registration application: Submit the company registration application to the competent authority in Dubai South.
- Submitting the required documents: You may need to submit a set of documents such as a copy of the passport, proof of identity, company incorporation documents, lease contract, etc.
- Payment: Pay the required fees to register the company and complete the procedures.
- Review and Approval: Your application and submitted documents will be reviewed, and after approval the company will be registered.
- Receiving the commercial license: After completing the procedures, you can receive a commercial license proving the establishment of the company.
- Registering the company for taxes and social insurance: Do not forget to register the company with the relevant tax and social insurance authorities.
Documents required to establish a company in Dubai South
Generally, the documents required to set up a company in Dubai South may vary depending on the type of company and the business activity you wish to pursue. However, here is a list of the basic documents that are often required when setting up companies in Dubai:
- Copy of Passport: Copy of passport for shareholders and key employees.
- Identification document: A document proving the identity of shareholders and key employees, such as a national identity card.
- Company incorporation documents: Company incorporation documents such as company contracts and partners’ documents.
- Lease Agreement: A copy of the lease agreement for the company’s business location.
- Site Plan: Site plan of the company in Dubai South.
- Company Registration Form: Official form for company registration.
- Business Plan: A business plan that outlines the company’s goals and how it will operate.
- Financial instruments: Evidence of the financial resources available to operate the company.
- Application Form: An official application form for company formation.
- Portraits: Portraits of key shareholders and employees.
Types of companies that can be established in Dubai South
Here is a table showing the types of companies that can be established in Dubai South , with basic details about each type:
| Company Type | Description | Ownership | Permitted Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Limited Liability Company (LLC) | A company consisting of one or more partners, and is considered limited liability for the shareholders. | It can be 100% foreign in some cases, or you need a local partner. | Most commercial and service activities. |
| Private Joint Stock Company | A company consisting of a group of shareholders, whose liability is limited to the amount of their shares. | It can be 100% foreign or you need a local partner. | Commercial, industrial and service activities. |
| subsidiary of a foreign company | A branch of a company established outside the UAE, operating under the same trade name and activity. | 100% foreign ownership. | Business activities that are licensed under local conditions. |
| Private Limited Liability Company | A special type of limited liability company, it may have more flexibility in arrangements. | It can be 100% foreign or you need a local partner. | Commercial and industrial activities. |
| Trading company | A company dedicated to commercial purposes including the buying, selling and distributing of products. | It can be 100% foreign or you need a local partner. | Business and distribution activities. |
| Industrial company | A company specialized in manufacturing and production activities, including factories and materials production. | It can be 100% foreign or you need a local partner. | Industrial and production activities. |
| Investment company | A company dedicated to investing in various projects or managing assets. | It can be 100% foreign or you need a local partner. | Investment activities and asset management. |
| Technology company | A company that focuses on providing advanced technological services and products, such as software or technical solutions. | It can be 100% foreign or you need a local partner. | Technological and technical activities. |
Company formation fees in Dubai South
The fees required to set up a company in Dubai South vary depending on the type of company and the business activity you plan to pursue. Here are some common fees you may encounter when setting up a company in Dubai South:
- Basic Registration Fees: These fees include the application fee and the basic registration fee for establishing the company.
- Legal Consultation Fees: You may need to pay a fee for legal consultations to guide you through the company formation process.
- Company incorporation fees: These fees include the fees associated with preparing and submitting the company incorporation documents.
- License and Permit Fees: You may need to pay fees to obtain the licenses and permits necessary to operate your business.
- Professional Services Fees: These fees include fees for professional services such as accounting, auditing and legal services.
- Tax and Social Insurance Registration Fees: You may need to pay fees to register the company with the tax and social insurance authorities.
In conclusion, establishing a company in Dubai South Free Zone is a strategic move for investors looking for a modern and prosperous business environment. This free zone offers a range of unique benefits, such as tax exemptions, advanced infrastructure, and company formation facilities, which contribute to accelerating business growth and enhancing the chances of success. By following the right steps and understanding the establishment requirements, investors can make the most of the opportunities that the free zone offers. Dubai South is not only a vital logistics and trade hub, but also a gateway to innovation and growth, making it the ideal choice for establishing an ambitious company seeking to succeed in a competitive global market.
Top Frequently Asked Questions About Establishing a Company in Dubai South Free Zone
Does Dubai South provide support services for startups?
Yes, Dubai South provides support services including consulting, legal support, and assistance with expansion and growth.
What are the procedures for obtaining work visas in Dubai South?
Work visas can be obtained after completing the company establishment procedures, by submitting an application to the Free Zone Administration and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Can an existing company be transferred to Dubai South?
Yes, an existing company can be transferred to Dubai South by submitting a transfer request to the responsible authority and fulfilling the legal requirements.
Do companies in Dubai South need special licenses?
Yes, depending on the type of activity, companies may need special licenses or additional permits, such as health or environmental licenses.
What types of offices are available in Dubai South?
There are several types of offices available, including private offices, shared offices, and virtual offices, to meet the needs of different businesses.
