Are you dreaming of starting a tech business, growing an innovative company, or finding the perfect home for your enterprise in the Middle East? Then you absolutely need to know about the Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO).
DSO is a massive, carefully planned, and government-owned integrated technology park that has quickly become a premier destination for business. Spanning over 7 square kilometres, this vibrant area brings together offices, universities, residential spaces, and lifestyle facilities, making it one of the most convenient and connected places to start a business in Dubai.
From 100% foreign ownership and zero corporate tax on qualifying income to state-of-the-art infrastructure and easy access to global markets, everything here supports business success.
But what really sets DSO apart is its complete ecosystem - where businesses, research centres, and entrepreneurs come together to collaborate and innovate.
About Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is a government-owned free zone established and managed by the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). It was created with a vision to make Dubai a global hub for innovation, technology, and smart business solutions. Over the years, DSO has successfully built a name for itself as a vibrant community that blends business, technology, and modern living in one place.
One of DSO’s biggest advantages is its location. It’s conveniently situated just a short drive from Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, and major highways like Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road which offers easy access to both local and international markets.
The area is also known for its world-class infrastructure. From high-tech office buildings and modern warehouses to residential apartments, retail outlets, schools, and leisure facilities, everything you need is right within reach. It’s home to tech parks, innovation centres, and startup incubators that encourage collaboration and creativity.
Business Activities Permitted in DSO
Dubai Silicon Oasis offers a wide range of business activities, especially for companies focusing on technology, innovation, and modern services. Here are some of the main business activities you can carry out in DSO:
- Technology and IT Services: Software development, app creation, web design, IT support, and cloud solutions.
- Electronics and Engineering: Research, design, testing, and trading of electronic equipment and engineering products.
- Consultancy Services: Business management, marketing, HR, or IT consulting services for local and international clients.
- E-Commerce and Digital Marketing: Online trading, digital marketing agencies, and social media management firms.
- Education and Training: Technical training centres, educational consultancies, and e-learning platforms.
- Light Industrial and Assembly Activities: Small-scale manufacturing, product assembly, and packaging operations.
- Import and Export: Trading goods and technology-related equipment regionally and globally.
Dubai Silicon Oasis License Types
To cater to different kinds of businesses, DSO offers several types of licenses. Each license is designed to support specific activities. Here’s a quick look at the main license types available in DSO:
1. Professional License
A professional license allows you to provide professional or consultancy-based services. It’s ideal for businesses such as IT consultancies, marketing agencies, educational services, accounting firms, and other service-oriented activities.
2. Trading (Commercial) License
A trading or commercial license permits the import, export, and distribution of goods and products within the free zone or outside the UAE. It’s suitable for companies involved in e-commerce, wholesale, or retail trading.
3. Industrial License
This license is required for businesses involved in light manufacturing, product assembly, or packaging. DSO provides ready-to-use industrial units and warehouses for companies that need production or storage facilities.
Each license type comes with flexible options for office spaces, visa quotas, and activity combinations, allowing entrepreneurs to choose what best fits their business model.
Special Permit: Business Operation Permit
For companies already established outside of the free zone (i.e., licensed by the Dubai Economic Department, or DED), DSO offers a Business Operation Permit. This allows them to operate from private properties within the designated DSO administrative zone while retaining their existing DED license.
Types of Companies You Can Form in DSO
DSO offers flexible company structures to suit different kinds of businesses. Depending on the ownership and business goals, you can choose from the following types of companies:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): An FZE is a company with a single shareholder, which can be an individual or a corporate entity. This structure is ideal for solo entrepreneurs or small business owners who want full control and 100% ownership of their business.
- Free Zone Company (FZCO): An FZCO allows multiple shareholders (up to 50). This option is suitable for partnerships or businesses with several investors looking to collaborate under one entity within the free zone.
- Branch Office: A branch office can be set up by an existing UAE or foreign company that wants to expand its operations into DSO. It functions as an extension of the parent company and performs the same business activities.
- Dubai Integrated Economic Zones (DIEZ) Licensed Entities: Since DSO operates under DIEZ (Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority), businesses can also form licensed entities that enjoy unified benefits across DIEZ’s managed zones, including Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) and Dubai CommerCity.
Documents Required for DSO Company Setup
Here are the commonly required documents for your Dubai Silicon Oasis company formation:
- Passport copies of all shareholders, directors, and the appointed manager
- Passport-size photographs of shareholders and the manager
- Proof of address
- Business plan (for certain activities like technology or consultancy services)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA)
- Application form issued by the DSO Authority
- Trade name reservation certificate
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor (if the shareholder is a UAE resident)
Once all the documents are ready, they must be submitted to the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority for review and approval. After verification, you’ll receive the initial approval to proceed with your office lease and license issuance.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Company Formation Process
Dubai Silicon Oasis company setup is a smooth and transparent process. The DSO Authority has made it easy for entrepreneurs to register their company and start operating quickly. Here’s how the process works:
1. Choose Your Business Activity
Start by selecting the business activity you want to carry out such as IT services, trading, consultancy, or manufacturing. The type of activity determines your license type and legal structure.
2. Define Your Legal Structure
After you finalise business activity, decide whether you want to register as a Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZCO), or a Branch Office of an existing company.
3. Reserve a Company Name
Pick a unique trade name that follows DSO’s naming guidelines. The name should reflect your business nature and must be approved by the DSO Authority.
4. Choose Your Office Space
Every company in DSO must have a physical presence. Depending on your business size and requirements, you can choose from a range of options such as flexi-desks and co-working spaces for startups to private offices, commercial units, or light industrial spaces for larger businesses. Your office lease agreement is an essential step before license issuance.
5. Receive Your Business License
After submitting documents, completing all approvals and lease formalities, you’ll receive your official Dubai Silicon Oasis business license. This document legally authorises you to start business operations within the free zone. The license is valid for one year and can be renewed annually.
6. Open a Corporate Bank Account
After license issuance, you can open a corporate bank account with any leading bank in the UAE. DSO companies are eligible to open accounts with both local and international banks, depending on their business nature and requirements.
7. Apply for Residence Visas
Finally, you can apply for residence visas for shareholders, employees, and dependents under your company’s sponsorship. The number of visas you can obtain depends on your office size and license type.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Company Setup Cost
The license fees in DSO are very competitive. For most businesses, a service, trading, or industrial license starts from around AED 12,000 per year, while a general trading license can cost approximately AED 18,750 annually. If you plan to carry out additional business activities, extra fees may apply.
Another significant expense is the office space - Flexi-desks or co-working spaces are the most affordable option, starting from about AED 10,000 per year, while private offices typically cost between AED 150–300 per square metre annually. Industrial units and warehouses are also available, with prices depending on size and purpose.
Visa costs are another important part of the setup. An investor visa usually costs around AED 3,260, while employee visas range from approximately AED 3,500 to 5,000. These fees can vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and other factors.
Naturally, the cost increases if you add more business activities, require a larger office, or need additional visas. To get an accurate estimate for your specific business, it’s always best to consult a business setup expert at Shuraa India.
Benefits of Dubai Silicon Oasis Company Setup
Business setup in DSO offers a range of advantages that make it one of the most attractive free zones in the UAE.
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
Entrepreneurs and investors can fully own their business without needing a local partner, giving full control over operations and profits.
2. Zero Corporate and Personal Tax
DSO offers tax-free business income for qualifying activities, allowing companies to retain more of their earnings. This reduces overhead costs and increases financial flexibility.
3. Support for Technology and Innovation
DSO is tailored for tech and innovation-driven businesses. It offers access to high-speed internet, smart city infrastructure, and digital business services.
4. Credibility and Recognition
Being registered in DSO adds credibility with clients, investors, and international partners. Free zone registration signals stability, compliance, and a commitment to professional standards.
5. Integrated Live-Work-Play Environment
Residential areas, schools, shopping centres, and leisure facilities make DSO a self-contained community. Employees and business owners benefit from shorter commutes and a better work-life balance, which improves productivity and employee satisfaction.
Ready to Start Your Business in DSO?
Dubai Silicon Oasis company setup offers a unique mix of business opportunities, innovation, and modern infrastructure, making it one of the most attractive free zones in the UAE. Getting started is easier with the right support. Shuraa India offers complete guidance, handling everything from licenses, visas, and PRO services to office space and bank account assistance. We also provide personalized advice to help you choose the best business activity and company structure for your goals.
Don’t wait, contact Shuraa India today and get your Dubai Silicon Oasis company up and running quickly.