Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is one of Dubai’s most exciting business hubs, a government-owned free zone and technology park that’s been running since 2004. The free zone is spread over 7.2 square kilometres, and is a fully integrated community with modern offices, research and development centres, residential areas, schools, and lifestyle facilities.
DSO is a hotspot for tech-driven businesses, startups, and SMEs, it offers everything an entrepreneur needs to grow. It has even earned global recognition, being ranked the #1 free zone for SMEs and R&D by FDI Insights (Financial Times).
For UK entrepreneurs and investors, business setup in Dubai Silicon Oasis is especially appealing. You get 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal taxes, full repatriation of profits, and an easy, straightforward licensing process.
Another reason DSO stands out is its cost-effectiveness. Setting up here is generally more affordable compared to other major global tech hubs, without compromising on quality or facilities.
Overview of Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) was established in 2004 and is managed by the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), a government entity under the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). Created to drive innovation and attract tech-based companies, DSO has become one of Dubai’s leading hubs for technology, research, and knowledge-based industries.
The free zone offers a diverse range of facilities to meet the needs of different types of businesses. These include:
- Commercial Offices: A variety of office spaces, from small, flexible units to large corporate headquarters.
- Warehouses: Modern warehousing and light industrial units suitable for storage, assembly, and manufacturing.
- Co-working Spaces: Collaborative environments like the Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus (Dtec), which provide flexible, plug-and-play offices for startups and entrepreneurs.
- R&D Centers: Specialized spaces and labs to support research and development activities, helping companies to innovate and test new technologies.
One of the most unique aspects of Dubai Silicon Oasis is its “mixed-use” model, which goes beyond just a business park. DSO is an integrated community where people can both work and live. This means it offers a comprehensive range of amenities, including residential options, retail outlets, schools, healthcare facilities (like Fakeeh University Hospital), restaurants, Silicon Central Mall, and recreational areas.
What are the Benefits Business Setup in DSO?
Here’s why so many entrepreneurs, especially in the tech and innovation space, choose DSO for their setup:
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
As a free zone, DSO allows you to fully own your business without the need for a local sponsor, giving you complete control over operations and profits.
2. Affordable Setup and Operating Costs
Compared to many other global tech hubs, DSO offers competitive licensing fees, flexible office options, and lower operational costs.
3. Quality of Life
With residential areas, schools, healthcare, retail outlets, and recreational spaces all within the same community, you can enjoy a balanced lifestyle while running your business.
4. World-Class Infrastructure
From high-speed internet and advanced IT networks to R&D centres and modern office spaces, the facilities are built for innovation and growth.
5. Prime Geographic Location
Situated at the intersection of major trade routes, DSO provides easy access to markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is also close to Dubai’s airports, which simplifies logistics and international travel.
6. Attractive Tax Benefits
Zero personal income tax and corporate tax exemptions make it financially rewarding to operate here.
What are the Types of Business Licenses in Dubai Silicon Oasis?
Choosing the right license is one of the most important steps in setting up your company.
1. Trade License
Allows you to carry out activities related to the import, export, distribution, and storage of goods. Ideal for companies involved in buying and selling products.
2. Professional License
Covers service-oriented businesses such as IT services, consulting, marketing, education, and other professional activities.
3. Industrial License
Permits light manufacturing and industrial activities, including product assembly and packaging, within the free zone.
4. Special Licenses for Tech & Innovation
DSO, being a tech-focused free zone, offers special approvals for businesses involved in software development, R&D, and other innovation-led projects.
Note: Some activities may require external approvals from relevant authorities, depending on the nature of the business.
What are the Documents Required?
The documents you’ll need depend on the type of company you are setting up (individual or corporate shareholder) and the nature of your business activity. Below is a general checklist for most setups in DSO:
- Passport copy of each shareholders
- Visa copy and Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current UAE sponsor, if applicable
- Completed trade license application form
- Certificate of Incorporation of the parent company (if applicable)
- External approval from relevant government departments (for regulated activities like education, healthcare, or media)
- Lease agreement for your chosen office or workspace in DSO
What is the Process of Business Setup in Dubai Silicon Oasis?
Here is a step-by-step process to help you through the company formation process:
1. Choose Your Business Activity and Legal Structure
First, you need to define what your business will do. This will determine the type of business license you need (e.g., Trade, Service, or Industrial). Simultaneously, decide on your legal structure. The most common options are:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): For a single shareholder.
- Free Zone Company (FZCO): For two or more shareholders.
- Branch of a Foreign Company: For an existing company to open a branch in DSO.
2. Reserve Your Trade Name & Get Initial Approval
Submit 3–4 name options to DSOA (must follow UAE naming guidelines – no offensive words, no religious references, etc.). Fill out a basic application form with business details for initial review.
3. Prepare and Submit Your Documents
Gather all personal or corporate shareholder documents (passport, visa, Emirates ID, incorporation papers). If corporate documents are from outside the UAE, have them notarised and attested in the home country and by the UAE Embassy.
4. Finalize Your Office Space
At this stage, you will finalize your office space arrangements, which could be a physical office, a co-working space, or a flexi-desk. The DSOA offers various options to suit different business sizes and budgets.
5. Pay Fees and Receive Your License
After the DSOA approves your application, they will issue an invoice for the registration and license fees. These fees will depend on your license type and the office space you’ve chosen. Once the payment is made, the DSOA will issue your official business license.
6. Immigration Setup & Visa Quota Allocation
Apply for your Establishment Card with DSOA Immigration Department. Request visa quota based on your office size and business needs.
7. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Submit your license, incorporation documents, passport copies, and business plan to your chosen bank. DSO’s reputation and regulated structure make it easier to get bank approvals compared to some other free zones.
What is the Cost of Business Setup in Dubai Silicon Oasis?
A basic DSO business setup with a license and a “flexi-desk” (shared workspace) can start from around AED 12,000. This is a popular and cost-effective option for freelancers and startups. However, if you need a dedicated, physical office space, the costs will increase significantly, often starting from around AED 25,000 or more per year, depending on the size and location of the office.
Beyond the license and office space, you’ll need to budget for other fees. These include one-time charges for company registration and name reservation. There are also visa costs for each person, which cover things like the entry permit, medical tests, and Emirates ID. To get a precise and accurate figure, it’s best to speak with a business setup consultant at Shuraa UK who can provide a detailed quote tailored to your specific business plan.
How Shuraa UK Can Help You Set Up in DSO
Dubai Silicon Oasis is the perfect place to start and grow your business. It offers great location, modern facilities, tax benefits, and flexible workspaces – everything you need to succeed. If you’ve been thinking about starting your business in Dubai, this is the right time to make it happen. With the right support, setting up in DSO can be quick, easy, and affordable.
At Shuraa UK, we take care of everything for you. We help you choose the best business activity and license, manage all the paperwork and approvals, and offer budget-friendly packages for new entrepreneurs and startups. We also handle visas and PRO services so you can focus on building your business. Get a free consultation today.
