DSO
Dubai Free Zone License
Price Starting from
AED 15,500*
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- 100% Repatriation of Capital and Profits
- Zero Import or Export Tax
- Wide Range of Permitted Business Activities
- Visa and Non-Visa Packages Available
Business Setup in DSO Free Zone
About DSO Dubai Free Zone
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is a technology park and Free Zone located in Dubai. It is designed to drive innovation and support technology-based businesses.
Spanning over 7.2 million square meters, DSO is a hub for tech startups and established companies.
It is renowned for its cost-effective business setup process and excellent connectivity to Dubai's central business districts.
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Benefits of DSO - Dubai Free Zone License
Establishing a company in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) offers several benefits for businesses in the technology and innovation sectors. DSO provides a supportive environment, cost-effective solutions, and strategic advantages tailored to the needs of tech companies, helping your business grow.
Here are the key benefits of setting up your company in the DSO Dubai Free Zone.
100% Foreign Ownership
100% Repatriation of Capital
Business-Friendly Environment
Zero Income and Personal Tax
Innovation Hub
Networking Opportunities
Low Cost of Operations
Start-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Legal Company Structure Options for DSO
Dubai Silicon Oasis Business Structures
Starting a business in Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSO) offers you the flexibility to choose from a variety of legal structures tailored for tech-focused companies and other businesses. Whether you're launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, selecting the right legal framework is essential for the success and growth of your company.
EZONE is here to guide you through these options, providing clear insights into the benefits and requirements of each structure. With our expertise, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
A company with at least 2 or more shareholders, they can be individuals or corporate entities.
Under the 2023 Regulations, DSO treats all existing Free Zone Establishments (FZEs) as FZCOs, so the FZE form is no longer offered.
An extension of the parent entity, engaging in similar activities under the parent company’s name, subject to local regulations and approvals.
Selecting the Right Business License
DSO Free Zone License Types
Dubai Silicon Oasis offers a range of business licenses tailored to different sectors and activities, including:
Required Documents
Requirements for DSO Business License
To start a company in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), it's important to have the right documents for a smooth and efficient process. These documents confirm your business's legitimacy and ensure you meet DSO's specific regulatory requirements.
Whether you're launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, having the correct paperwork is key to a successful setup in DSO.
Required Documents
Individual Shareholder
- Passport Copy
- Visa Copy
- Latest UAE entry stamp
- Emirates ID Copy (Front and Back)
- Passport Size Photos
- 3 Proposed Company Names (If Applicable)
Required Documents
Corporate Shareholder
- Company Hierarchy Diagram
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Certificate of Incumbency / Good standing
- Share Certificate / Share Registry Certificate
- Passports of the Directors and Shareholders
- Business Plan
- Memorandum of Association and/or Articles of Association
- Board Resolution
How to Start a Business in DSO Free Zone
Steps for Setting Up a Business in Dubai Silicon Oasis
The timeframe for setting up a company in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) can vary depending on the complexity of the business, the type of license, and the efficiency of the document submission and approval process.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's recommended to consult directly with EZONE Business Setup Consultants.
Choose Your Business Activity and Business Structure
To help speed up your setup process, a clear understanding of the type of business activity and structure you require is crucial.
Reserve a Business Name
Submit your proposed business names to the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority for approval, ensuring they comply with local naming regulations.
Lease Office Space
Choose and lease office space from DSO's options, from shared desks to private offices and labs.
Receive Business License
Upon verification and approval, you will receive your business license and registration certificate from DSOA to start operations.
Open Bank Account
Open a business bank account in the UAE to manage your company's finances.
What You Actually Pay, and What You Can License
DSO Cost & Activities
Figures below are indicative bands; confirm a live quote before budgeting.
| Cost Component | Frequency | What Drives It |
|---|---|---|
| Trade licence fee | Annual | Number of activities and licence category |
| Registration and incorporation | One-off | Legal structure and shareholder count |
| Flexi-desk or office space | Annual | Workspace tier and visa allocation |
| Establishment card | Per issue and renewal | Required before any visa can be sponsored |
| Per-visa cost | Per visa, per cycle | Entry permit, status change, medical, Emirates ID, stamping |
Build a figure specific to your activity with the EZONE cost calculator.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Activity List
DSO is positioned as a technology and light industrial hub, and commonly licenses:
- Information technology, software and electronics activities
- Electronic trading and e-commerce
- Light manufacturing and assembly
- Engineering and technical consultancy
- General trading and professional services
Founders running an electronic trading business or a technology-led startup often shortlist DSO alongside other tech-oriented zones. If document preparation is the part you would rather not manage yourself, our PRO services team can handle submission directly. Confirm your exact activity against DSO's current published list before applying.
What Is Dubai Silicon Oasis?
Dubai Silicon Oasis is a technology-focused free zone and community in Dubai, and a member of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZA). It licenses technology, trading and service companies, and foreign owners can hold 100% of their company.
Technology hub
A community built around tech businesses.
DSO vs Other Dubai Free Zones
| Free zone | EZONE starting price (AED) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Silicon Oasis | From 15,500 | Technology and trading companies |
| Meydan | From 12,500 | Consultants and online businesses |
| Dubai CommerCity | From 12,000 | E-commerce sellers |
| JAFZA | From 15,500 | Trading and logistics |
Setting Up in DSO From Abroad
Start online
In most cases you can begin the application online and sign digitally.
Finish in the UAE
The residence visa medical test, biometrics and Emirates ID need a visit to the UAE.
Tell us your activity and how many visas you need. We confirm the licence route and send a quote.
Common Questions
DSO FAQs
Cost depends on licence category, number of activities, workspace tier and visa count. The licence fee is one component; workspace and per-visa costs also apply. Use the EZONE cost calculator for a figure specific to your setup.
DSO is positioned as a technology and light industrial hub, commonly licensing IT and software activities, electronic trading, light manufacturing, engineering consultancy and general trading. Confirm your specific activity against the current published list.
Yes. DSO is one of the more commonly shortlisted free zones for technology, electronics and engineering-led businesses, alongside its general trading and professional services options.
Yes, alongside office and flexi-desk options, which is part of what distinguishes it from purely office-based free zones.
No. DSO also licenses trading and service activities. Check your activity against the current DSO list before you apply.
Yes, within the visa quota of your package and office space. Choose the package for the team you expect to have.
Not directly with a standard free zone licence. You can use a distributor, a mainland branch or another arrangement.