Dubai South Free Zone - Future Aviation Hub
Establish your business at Al Maktoum International Airport, the world's future aviation megahub. Dubai South combines Expo 2020 legacy infrastructure with direct airport access, making it the premier choice for aviation, logistics, and aerospace companies targeting global markets.
Why Choose Dubai South Free Zone?
Dubai South represents the future of aviation and logistics in the Middle East, strategically positioned around Al Maktoum International Airport - destined to become the world's largest airport. Built on 145 square kilometers, Dubai South integrates Expo 2020's cutting-edge infrastructure with advanced smart city technologies, creating an unparalleled business environment for companies targeting global expansion.
The zone's master-planned development includes dedicated districts for aviation, logistics, residential, commercial, and industrial activities, providing a comprehensive ecosystem for business growth. With government backing through Dubai's vision to become the world's aviation capital by 2030, Dubai South offers exceptional opportunities for companies in aerospace, e-commerce fulfillment, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
Industry Advantages
Aviation Excellence
Direct airport access, specialized aviation facilities, aircraft maintenance capabilities
Logistics Supremacy
Advanced cargo terminals, automated systems, seamless connectivity
Smart Innovation
IoT integration, blockchain logistics, AI-powered operations
8-Step Dubai South Setup Process
Business Activity Selection
Choose aviation, logistics, or general business activities. Timeline: 1-2 days
Name Reservation
Reserve unique company name with Dubai South Authority. Timeline: 1-2 days
Initial Approval
Submit initial application with supporting documents. Timeline: 3-5 days
Office Space Arrangement
Secure compliant office or facility space. Timeline: 2-7 days
License Application
Submit complete license application with fees. Timeline: 5-10 days
Regulatory Approvals
Aviation activities require GCAA approvals. Timeline: 2-8 weeks
License Issuance
Receive final business license and permits. Timeline: 1-3 days
Visa Processing & Bank Account
Process investor visas and open corporate bank account. Timeline: 1-2 weeks
Total Timeline Summary
License Types & Comprehensive Business Activities
Aviation Services License
Permitted Activities:
Trading License
Permitted Activities:
Industrial License
Permitted Activities:
Service License
Permitted Activities:
Transparent Cost Structure & Pricing
Zone Cost Breakdown
Comprehensive cost breakdown for business setup in Zone
Last Updated:
Costs are subject to change. Contact our partners for current pricing and exact quotations.
Important: These costs are estimates based on typical requirements. Actual costs may vary depending on specific business needs, license types, and current market rates. Always consult with official authorities or authorized service providers for precise quotations.
Office Space & Facility Options
Flexi Desk
- • Shared workspace
- • Hot desk arrangement
- • Basic amenities
- • 1-2 visa allocation
Private Office
- • Dedicated space
- • Meeting rooms access
- • Premium amenities
- • 4-8 visa allocation
Warehouse
- • Storage facilities
- • Cargo handling
- • Airport connectivity
- • Unlimited visas potential
Aviation Facilities
- • Aircraft hangars
- • Maintenance bays
- • Runway access
- • Specialized equipment
Visa Benefits & Requirements
Visa Allocation Rules
Service License
Up to 4 visas with flexi desk, expandable with larger offices
Trading License
6-8 visas standard allocation, unlimited with warehouse facilities
Aviation License
8-15 visas depending on facility size and operational requirements
Golden Visa Opportunities
Investor Categories (10 years)
- • AED 2M+ investment in Dubai South companies
- • Aviation sector investments with job creation
- • Real estate investment in Dubai South
Entrepreneur Categories (5 years)
- • Innovation-based aviation startups
- • Logistics technology companies
- • Sustainable aviation initiatives
Success Stories & Industry Achievements
Emirates Flight Training Academy
"Dubai South's world-class facilities and direct airport access enabled us to establish the region's most advanced pilot training academy, training over 1,200 pilots annually."
DP World Logistics Hub
"Dubai South's strategic location and smart infrastructure allowed us to create the region's most efficient e-commerce fulfillment center, processing millions of packages monthly."
Dubai South vs Other Free Zones
| Factor | Dubai South | JAFZA | DAFZA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Access | Direct Al Maktoum | Port Focus | Direct DXB |
| Setup Cost | AED 30K-40K | AED 35K-45K | AED 25K-35K |
| Specialization | Aviation & Logistics | Manufacturing | Airport Services |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Dubai South unique compared to other free zones?
Dubai South offers direct access to Al Maktoum International Airport, the world's largest airport project. It benefits from Expo 2020 legacy infrastructure, smart city integration, and positioning as the future aviation megahub connecting East and West markets.
What types of businesses are best suited for Dubai South?
Aviation services, aerospace manufacturing, logistics companies, e-commerce businesses, cargo handling, aircraft maintenance, and companies requiring direct airport connectivity benefit most from Dubai South's strategic location and specialized facilities.
How does Dubai South support aviation businesses?
Dubai South provides dedicated aviation infrastructure including aircraft maintenance facilities, cargo terminals, ground handling services, aviation training centers, and direct runway access for specialized aviation operations.
What are the visa benefits in Dubai South?
Dubai South offers competitive visa packages with up to 15 visas for industrial licenses, family visa sponsorship options, and potential Golden Visa eligibility for investors meeting minimum capital requirements of AED 2 million.
How long does Dubai South setup take?
Setup timelines range from 2-3 weeks for service licenses to 8-12 weeks for specialized aviation and industrial licenses requiring additional regulatory approvals and facility inspections.
Related Dubai South Resources
Aviation Business Setup Guide
Complete guide to aviation business setup requirements and procedures in UAE
Logistics License Dubai
Comprehensive logistics and cargo business setup guide for Dubai
Free Zone Cost Calculator
Calculate exact setup costs for Dubai South and compare with other zones
Golden Visa Through Business
Learn how Dubai South investment qualifies for UAE Golden Visa residency
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Last Updated: October 2025
Information current as of this date. Please verify for any updates or changes.
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