Dubai Silicon Oasis Free Zone
Overview of Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), established in 2004, is a government-owned Free Zone that has emerged as the premier technology park in the region. DSOA provides a comprehensive ecosystem that seamlessly integrates working and living environments, offering a complete bundle of incentives and advantages for businesses investing in the tech park. Equipped with industry-leading infrastructure, DSOA supports business operations around the clock with advanced telecommunications, a fiber optic network, and a tier 3 data center with 120 high-capacity racks.
Key Benefits of Investing in Dubai Silicon Oasis
- No Income or Corporate Tax
- No Import-Export Tax
- No Customs Duty for Freezone Imports
- 100% Foreign Ownership
- 100% Profit Repatriation
- Fast Company Formation Process
- Networking and Community-Building Events
- Advanced IT Infrastructure with Network Security
- Access to a Pool of Talent in the Technical and Engineering Sectors
- World-Class Development and Research Centers
- Investment Incentives by Venture Capitalists for Startups
Types of Legal Entities in Dubai Silicon Oasis
Dubai Silicon Oasis offers a variety of company structures tailored to meet the needs of technology and IT entrepreneurs:
Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A single shareholder entity, an individual, or a corporate entity.
Free Zone Company (FZC/FZCO): A legal entity with 2 to 5 shareholders, individuals or corporate entities.
Branch of a Foreign Company: A UAE-based or foreign company can register its branch in DSOA without any capital requirements. The branch must operate under the same activities as the parent company.
Branch of a Local Company: A branch of a company registered in Dubai Mainland.
Types of Licenses for Business Setup in Dubai Silicon Oasis
Investors in DSOA can choose from three broad business license categories:
Service License: This license is for companies offering services such as accounting, consulting, legal, marketing, IT services, and more.
Industrial License: This is for businesses importing raw materials, manufacturing, assembly, and packaging.
Trade License: For the distribution and sale of items specified under the license, including engineering equipment, heavy machinery, and general trading.
Special License Categories in Dubai Silicon Oasis
DSOA also offers special license categories for activities within its administrative zone, including:
Business Operation Permit: Issued by the Dubai Economic Department (DED) for companies operating in DSOA areas owned by private developers.
Entrepreneurial Business License (EBL): A low-cost license package designed for startups and entrepreneurs participating in DSOA’s incubator program.
Steps in Company Formation at Dubai Silicon Oasis
Company formation in Dubai Silicon Oasis involves a three-step process:
- Submit the Application: Submit the company formation application form and all required documents to DSOA.
- Payment and Legal Documents: Pay the relevant fees and submit additional legal documents as required.
- Lease Agreement and Share Capital Submission: Prepare and sign the lease agreement and a share capital letter and submit them to DSOA (for FZE/FZCO).
Freehold Company Setup in DSOA
For investors interested in setting up a company within facilities not owned by Dubai Silicon Oasis but under its administrative governance, the Freehold Licensing Division of DSOA offers a suitable option. The investor can apply for a company license through this division and start operations from the freehold area, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Business Facilities
- Offices: State-of-the-art office spaces available for lease.
- Multi-Use Warehousing and Manufacturing: Customizable spaces for warehousing and light industrial activities.
- Land for Development: Available for businesses looking to construct custom facilities.
- Conference Facilities: Modern amenities for hosting meetings and events.
- Student Accommodation: On-site living options for students and young professionals.
Company Types in Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Branch: Any established company in the UAE or abroad can register its branch in Dubai Silicon Oasis. The branch must conduct the same activities as the parent company.
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A legal entity incorporated by a single shareholder, which can be an individual or corporate entity.
- Free Zone Company (FZCO): A legal entity with at least two shareholders, individuals, or corporate entities.
Operating Licenses in Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Service License: Allows the registered entity to provide specified services.
- Trade License: Permits activities related to import, export, and distribution of goods.
- Industrial License: This license enables the registered entity to import raw materials, manufacture, process, assemble, package, and export finished products.
Special Licenses Available in Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Business Operation Permit: A special permit for companies operating in the Administrative Zone of DSOA using a DED-issued license.
- Entrepreneurial Business License (EBL): Designed to support young entrepreneurs and startups with various resources and services.
Why Choose Dubai Silicon Oasis?
Dubai Silicon Oasis is an attractive destination for business setup due to its dynamic commercial and social environment, advanced industrial zones, office towers, residential options, R&D units, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. It is a technology hub for IT, industrial, research, and development businesses, offering a high-tech ecosystem that promotes collaboration and innovation.
Expert Business Advisory Services
Our business advisors have extensive experience setting up companies in Dubai Silicon Oasis. With a regional focus and global representation, we offer a comprehensive range of services covering all aspects of business in the UAE. Our commitment is to provide the best business advisory services with a personal dedication to each client, helping them with simple and complex challenges.
Please get in touch with us for complete information on how to apply for a business license in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) Company Setup Cost
| Trade License Activity | Cost in AED |
|---|---|
|
Industrial License |
AED 9,375 |
|
Specific Trading |
AED 9,375 |
|
Oil & Gas |
AED 12,500 |
|
Real Estate |
AED 18,750 |
|
Aviation |
AED 18,750 |
|
General Trading License |
AED 18,750 |
|
Specific Services |
AED 9,375 |
|
Freight Forwarding |
AED 10,625 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The starting price for a company set up with Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority is AED 11,800.
The Silicon Oasis Free Zone offers two special licenses: the Entrepreneurial Business License and the Business Operation Permit (EBL).
The DSO free zone allows businesses to engage in tech, IT, and electronic activities.
The Dubai Silicon Oasis free zone offers a variety of residential spaces, including villas and apartments.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority does not require a local sponsor for company setup, allowing 100% ownership without needing a local sponsor.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority does not require a trip to the UAE for company setup, as the process can be completed remotely.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority does not require a physical office for company formation, but packages include a flexi desk for 10 hours per month.
The company formation process typically takes 4-5 business days after submitting and signing all necessary documents.
Once the company is established and all necessary documents are available, the bank account setup for the company in the UAE can be completed.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority allows trading and consultancy activities under a single business license, subject to applicable fees.
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority licenses allow up to three activities, with additional activities incurring a fee.
No, shareholders can set up a company without restricted nationalities, but a pre-approval process can be conducted to ensure successful establishment.
