United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

Company Formation in Dubai South

Dubai South (Dubai World Central - DWC)

Formation Time
4–7 business days
Min. Capital
AED 50,000
Corporate Tax
0% qualifying / 9%
Foreign Ownership
100%

Overview

Dubai South (formerly Dubai World Central - DWC) is Dubai's 145-square-kilometer flagship master-planned 'city of tomorrow', strategically built around Al Maktoum International Airport (set to become the world's largest airport with an ultimate capacity exceeding 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo) and the Expo City Dubai district. Designed as an integrated global trade, aviation, and logistics powerhouse, Dubai South features dedicated Logistics, Aviation, Residential, and Commercial Districts, directly connected to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded customs transport corridor.

Al Maktoum Airport masterplan
VAT Designated Zone
Sea-air bonded corridor
Expo City Dubai hub
EZDubai e-commerce zone

Why Choose Dubai South

1

Anchored around Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) — designated to be the world's largest airport

2

Direct bonded logistics corridor connecting to Jebel Ali Port in under 45 minutes

3

Home to Expo City Dubai and the Dubai Airshow global aerospace hub

4

0% Corporate Tax on Qualifying Income (designated zone status for logistics)

5

Dedicated Aviation District hosting maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) centers

6

Affordable flexi-desk and smart-desk packages for e-commerce, trade, and logistics

7

100% foreign ownership with zero personal income tax and full capital repatriation

Business Entity Types

EntityOwnershipDirectorsCapitalTaxBest For
FZ-LLC100%1AED 50,0000% on Qualifying Income; 9% on non-qualifying incomeLogistics, aviation services, e-commerce fulfillment, freight forwarding, consulting
Branch Office100%1None0% qualifying / 9% standardGlobal air freight forwarders, airlines, and aerospace manufacturers

Step-by-Step Formation Process

1

Application & Name Clearance

1–2 days

Submit application via Dubai South customer portal.

2

Initial Approval & Package Selection

2–3 days

Select Smart Desk or physical warehouse facility.

3

Document Signing & Payment

1–2 days

Execute electronic corporate documents and settle government fees.

4

Trade License Issuance

1 day

Receive official Dubai South trade license and immigration card.

5

Banking & Visas

2–3 weeks

Open accounts with partner banks and process residency visas.

Costs & Fees

Government / License FeeAED 13,000 – 28,000
Our Service FeeUSD 3,500+
Annual RenewalAED 13,000 – 25,000

Fees are indicative and may vary based on business activity, entity type, and additional approvals required. Contact us for a precise custom quote.

Get Custom Quote

Banking

Dubai South entities are recognized across UAE commercial banks, with specialized trade finance and logistics account facilities.

Account Opening Time
2–4 weeks
Multi-Currency
Yes — multiple currencies supported

Recommended Banks

Emirates NBDFirst Abu Dhabi BankMashreq BankWio BankRAKBANK

Tax Overview

Corporate Tax
0% on Qualifying Income; 9% on non-qualifying income
Personal Income Tax
0%
VAT / Sales Tax
Designated Zone status for logistics/warehousing operations
Capital Gains Tax
0%
Withholding Tax
0%
Double Tax Treaties
137 countries

Subject to UAE Federal Corporate Tax Law (Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022). Logistics companies operating in the designated zone benefit from 0% QFZP tax rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Dubai South considered the future of logistics in Dubai?
Dubai South surrounds Al Maktoum International Airport, which is undergoing a massive $35 billion expansion to become five times the size of DXB. Connected directly to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded corridor, it is the center of Dubai's future economic masterplan.
What is the difference between a Smart Desk and a Permanent Office?
A Smart Desk is a cost-effective shared workspace option within the Dubai South Business Center that supports 1 to 2 visas. A permanent office is dedicated physical commercial space suitable for growing teams.
Is Dubai South a Designated Zone for VAT?
Yes. The Logistics District within Dubai South is officially classified as a VAT Designated Zone, allowing goods to be stored and traded tax-free within the zone.
Can a Dubai South company engage in e-commerce?
Yes. Dubai South has an entire dedicated EZDubai e-commerce zone designed specifically for multinational e-commerce fulfillment, logistics, and cross-border delivery operations.
How long does it take to form a Dubai South company?
Formation typically takes 4 to 7 business days through the Dubai South online portal.
Can foreign non-residents open a bank account for a Dubai South entity?
Yes. Incorp International assists foreign founders in establishing multi-currency corporate accounts with Wio Bank, Emirates NBD, and Mashreq.