Setting up a business in one of the fastest-growing economic hubs in the UAE can be exciting and challenging. Dubai South has a great location near Al Maktoum International Airport, the Expo City Dubai site, and major logistics zones. This makes it an ideal choice for startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and growing businesses. With its integrated business environment, quick licensing process, and supportive infrastructure, Dubai South gives entrepreneurs a platform to expand operations effectively. The Dubai South Business Hub company setup guide for entrepreneurs in 2025 will help you navigate the process from start to finish.
Why choose Dubai South Business Hub for your company setup?
The Dubai South Business Hub offers business owners access to a premium environment in which their business can flourish and grow.
Optimal location for logistics and aviation
Dubai South’s reputation as an international hub continues to strengthen thanks to its close proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport, The airport’s expansion plans, which includes a new AED 128 billion terminal, underlines Dubai’s reputation as a world-renowned aviation centre. This upgrade will make it the largest airport in the world, sporting a passenger capacity of 260 million. Dubai South also borders the Expo 2020 site. It is currently being transformed into Expo City Dubai, a multi-purpose development that will attract a growing number of entrepreneurs, investors, and tourists from around the world.
Integrated business ecosystem
The Aviation District, Commercial District, and Logistics District are all part of Dubai South Business Hub. The Logistics District offers direct access to the cargo terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport. This setup helps keep business operations running smoothly and improves connectivity. This is vital for companies engaged in international trade and logistics.
Strategic Connectivity
Dubai South’s prime location offers superb connectivity to main transportation routes. It is strategically linked to major highways that provide easy access to other parts of Dubai and the UAE, improving the overall mobility of personnel and goods.
Dubai South Business Hub company setup: Step-by-step
Here are the steps you need to follow if you want to set up a company in the Dubai South Business Hub.
Step 1: Define your business
One of the most important things to do when starting a business in Dubai South, is define your business activity. Free Zone Companies (FZCs), Free Zone Establishments (FZEs), and branch offices are all supported structures. The activity you choose will ultimately impact ownership regulations, licensing directives, and visa requirements. It is important to conduct thorough research before deciding what activity aligns best with your short- and long-term business goals.
Step 2: Choose a name
The name you choose for your business can either be an asset or a liability. When establishing a business in Dubai South, you have to adhere to a number of naming guidelines. Apart from choosing a name that isn’t already being used by another company, also choose one that does not contain any offensive or religious words and references. If you want to increase the chances of approval, prepare at least three names that meet all the requirements.
Step 3: Apply online
You can easily apply for your Dubai South business license online. The Dubai South Business Hub portal lets you upload all the required documents, including copies of passports, rental agreements, shareholder details, and your business plan. You can also track your application status online, which improves efficiency and transparency.
Step 4: Verify identity
When you register your company, it is important to verify your identity. While some processes still need your signature in-person, most can be completed online. Thanks to Dubai South’s focus on digital, the application process is much easier.
Step 5: Pay fees
You will be required to pay the required fees as soon as your application is approved. Your license type and chosen business activity will determine how much you need to pay. Secure payments can be made through the online portal, making the translation quick and effortless. Payment ensures that your license can be issued without any unnecessary delays.
Step 6: Receive your license
The final step is obtaining your business license and formation documents. Dubai South offers digital delivery, which lets you receive all documents electronically. With your license, you can operate legally. You can start hiring staff, opening bank accounts, and officially launching your business activities.
Types of businesses you can register in Dubai South Business Hub
Business owners in Dubai South enjoy access to more than 900 approved business activities in a variety of sectors. Here are a few of the most prominent business categories that are available:
1. Commercial Activities
This is a good option for companies that focus on the wholesale/retail trading of goods.
- Wholesale/retail: The sale and distribution of goods in Dubai and the UAE
- E-Commerce platforms and online retail: Making use of digital platforms and online shops to reach an international market.
2. Professional Services
This category is aimed at businesses that provide services in the form of specialized knowledge and expertise. The following are supported in Dubai South:
- Consultancy services: Consultancies focused on business management, law, human resources, and finance.
- IT and digital solutions: Includes software development, cybersecurity, IT support, and digital marketing services.
- Marketing, design, and creative services: Advertising, branding, and content creation services.
- Education and training services: Establish educational institutions or offer courses to develop skills and professional growth.
These services are essential in a knowledge-driven economy and benefit from Dubai South’s supportive business environment.
3. Project Management and Support Services
Designed for companies engaged in operational support and project management:
- Project management: Overseeing and implementing projects of various sizes
- Administrative and back-office support: Services that make the administrative aspects of the business easier.
- Specialized advisory services: Expert guidance aimed at solving specific business-related problems.
These activities all contribute to project success and the overall efficiency of internal operations.
4. Freelance and Creative Work
Dubai South Creative Hub provides a beneficial environment for freelancing professionals and creative entrepreneurs.
- Freelance activities: This includes services that can be rendered in an independent capacity such as copywriting, photography, event planning, and design.
- Creative services: Closely related to freelancing and can include everything from video production and animation to script development and music composition.
Freelancers and digital nomads looking for flexible solutions will fall under this category.
License costs and visa options in Dubai South Business Hub
There are various costs to consider when starting a business in Dubai South Business Hub.
License fees
The actual license fee is the main expense when starting a business in Dubai South. The cost of the license will depend on several things including the type of business activity you have chosen:
Commercial License: Starting from AED 12,500
Service License: Starting from AED 12,500
It is important to remember that these fees are renewable every year.
Visa fees
Another cost consideration revolves around visas. There are different visa options available and the costs will generally include processing, medical testing, and Emirates ID.
Employment visas cost in the region of AED 3,000 each while investor visas have a price tag of AED 4,000 each.
Other costs
In addition to the primary costs, there are also a series of other fees that may be incurred. Registering your business, opening a bank account, and verifying the required documents can cost between AED 5,000 and AED 15,000 depending on your business structure. Other costs include insurance, utilities, wages, and transportation.
Benefits of setting up a company in Dubai South Free Zone
There are many notable benefits to setting up a company in Dubai South Free Zone. Here are five of them:
Full foreign ownership
Businesses in Dubai South do not require local sponsors or partners. They can enjoy 100% foreign ownership. Business owners have full control over all decisions pertaining to the operations of the business.
Full tax exemption
If you want to set up your company in a business-friendly place that offers various tax incentives and exemptions, Dubai South is definitely worth considering. Full tax exemptions for both personal and corporate levels can significantly lower overall operational costs.
Zero import/export duties
No import and export duties are levied against companies that operate in Dubai South.. This is of great benefit to businesses that operate in the manufacturing, trading, and logistical sectors. These reduced expenses can result in improved profitability and help a business achieve and maintain a competitive advantage.
100% repatriation of profits
Businesses operating in Dubai free zones face no legal barriers when moving their capital and profits back to their home country. This makes Dubai South a very sought-after location for global entrepreneurs as it allows revenue streams to be freely transferred between locations.
Top-notch infrastructure
Dubai South is home to state-of-the-art infrastructure including high-tech warehouses, smart offices, and connected logistics hubs. This infrastructure favors operational efficiency, digital readiness, and sustainability.
About Set Hub
There are many reasons to make Dubai South Business Hub your location of choice when starting a new business. As exciting it can be to see your business idea take flight, it can still be a very overwhelming experience. Thankfully, this is not a journey you have to embark on on your own. With the extensive experience gained servicing more than 25,000 clients, the Set Hub team can assist you with every step of your business setup in Dubai. Contact us today for a tailored Dubai South setup solution.