Establishing a company in Dubai South – advantages and costs. Dubai is considered one of the most prominent investment destinations in the world, as it enjoys a strategic location linking the East and the West, an advanced infrastructure, and a flexible business environment that supports innovation and growth. Establishing a company in Dubai gives investors access to a broad and growing global market, as well as benefiting from open economic policies and investment-encouraging legislation.
In this article, establishing a company in Dubai South, we will review the basic steps for establishing a company in Dubai, starting with choosing the appropriate type of company, through the procedures required for registration, all the way to the advantages and benefits that investors can obtain. Whether you are thinking about starting a local, freelance or offshore company, in this guide you will find everything you need to confidently and successfully start your project in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

Establishing a company in Dubai South – advantages and costs
جدول المحتوى
ToggleChoosing the type of company to establish a company in Dubai South
When considering setting up a company in Dubai , choosing the type of company is a crucial step that greatly affects business operations, costs and legal requirements. Investors have several main options, including: the local company, the free company, and the offshore company. Below we will go into detail about each type separately to enable you to make the right decision based on your business needs and goals.
Local company
A local company is one that is established and managed within the borders of the Emirate of Dubai and targets the local market. This type of company requires a local partner who owns a percentage of the shares, according to local laws governing foreign ownership. Local companies are characterized by easy access to the internal market and benefiting from the emirate’s advanced infrastructure. In addition, local businesses provide better opportunities to collaborate with state and local entities.
Free company
A free company is a business entity that is established in one of the free zones in Dubai. These companies feature 100% foreign ownership, without the need for a local partner. Free zones provide a flexible business environment with multiple tax benefits, such as exemption from income and corporate taxes. Investors in free zones are free to transfer all capital and profits out of the country, making them an attractive option for international investors.
External company
An offshore company, or what is known as an offshore company, is a type of company that is registered in Dubai but is managed from outside the Emirates. This type of company is typically used for international business purposes, such as e-commerce or intellectual property management. Offshore companies benefit from a favorable tax environment with full asset protection and confidentiality of information. Moreover, these companies can open bank accounts in Dubai and deal with local and international banks easily.
In conclusion, the choice of company type depends on several factors including the nature of the business, the target market, and the level of control and ownership required. Whether you are seeking to establish a local company that takes advantage of the internal market, a free enterprise that takes advantage of tax advantages, or an offshore company targeting international business, Dubai provides an ideal environment to achieve your business goals.
Procedures for registering the establishment of a company in Dubai
The process of registering a company in Dubai is a crucial step to ensuring the success of your business venture and compliance with legal requirements. This process includes several stages that must be followed carefully to ensure things run smoothly and efficiently. In this section, we will review the basic procedures for registering a company in Dubai.
The required documents
The documents required to register a company vary depending on the type of company you wish to create, whether it is a local, free, or offshore company. But in general, basic documents include:
- Copy of passport: for all partners and shareholders in the company.
- Personal photos: recent for all partners.
- The company’s articles of incorporation: which includes details about the company’s structure, the percentage of participation, and the rights and obligations of the partners.
- Business plan: describes the nature of the business activity, goals, and future plans of the company.
- No objection certificate: If one of the partners is an employee at another entity in the Emirates.
- Proof of address: whether it is a physical or virtual office.
Costs and fees
Costs and fees vary based on the type of company and the location you choose to register it. But in general, costs can be divided into:
- Registration fees: These are the fees paid to government agencies concerned with registering companies.
- License fees: which depend on the type of business activity and location.
- Insurance costs: Some businesses may need special insurance.
- Office rental costs: If you need a physical office.
- Legal and accounting consulting fees: You may need to consult experts to ensure full compliance with local laws.
Duration of procedures
The duration of the procedures varies depending on the type of company and location, but in general, the process can take from several days to a few weeks. The time period required to complete all procedures includes the following:
- Trade name reservation: It may take a few days.
- Preparing and submitting documents: depends on how quickly you prepare the required documents.
- Review and audit of government agencies: It may take one to two weeks.
- Receiving the commercial license: After final approval, the commercial license is issued, which allows you to start the business.
By following these procedures carefully, you can easily register your company in Dubai and start your business journey successfully.

Advantages and benefits of establishing a company in Dubai South
Advantages and benefits of establishing a company in Dubai South
Dubai has many advantages and benefits that make it an ideal destination for setting up businesses. These benefits can be divided into several main axes, including tax incentives, business environment, and government support.
Tax incentives
Tax incentives are one of the most prominent benefits that Dubai offers to companies. The emirate is characterized by a low or almost non-existent tax environment at the corporate and individual levels. Companies can benefit from tax breaks on income and profits, enhancing their ability to achieve higher profits and expand their business. In addition, the absence of VAT in some free zones gives companies an additional advantage in cost savings.
Commercial environment
Dubai has a dynamic and diverse business environment that attracts investors from around the world. The emirate provides advanced infrastructure, including world-class sea and air ports, in addition to advanced communications and transportation networks. Dubai is also a global financial center, which facilitates access to financial and banking services. The business environment in Dubai encourages innovation and entrepreneurship, and provides broad opportunities for growth and expansion in various economic sectors.
Government support
The government in Dubai plays a vital role in supporting businesses and companies. The government provides a range of facilities and initiatives aimed at attracting investments and supporting entrepreneurs. These facilities include fast registration procedures and simplified bureaucracy, in addition to providing electronic platforms to facilitate government transactions. The government also provides training and financing programs to support emerging, small and medium-sized companies, enhancing their ability to succeed and grow.
Our company’s role in establishing a company in Dubai South
In conclusion, it can be said that establishing a company in Dubai is a strategic choice that carries with it many benefits and advantages. By choosing the appropriate company type between the local company, the free company, and the offshore company, entrepreneurs can successfully achieve their business and financial goals. Registration procedures, although they may require some time and effort, ensure the legal and proper establishment of the company.
In addition, Dubai offers a stimulating business environment thanks to tax incentives and ongoing government support. These factors, along with advanced infrastructure and strategic geographical location, make Dubai a global center for business and trade.
Therefore, taking a step towards establishing a company in Dubai can open wide horizons and endless opportunities for growth and prosperity in a global market that is diverse and full of potential.
Frequently asked questions about establishing a company in Dubai South
What types of companies can be established in Dubai South?
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ LLC). A branch of a local company. Branch of a foreign company. Civil company.
What are the basic steps to establish a company in Dubai South?
Determine the type of business activity. Choosing and registering a trade name. Submit an application for initial approval. Preparing and documenting the articles of incorporation. Rent an office or commercial space. Submit a commercial license application and pay the fees. Receive the commercial license and start work.
What documents are required to establish a company in Dubai South?
Copies of passports of shareholders and directors. Lease contract for office or commercial space. workplan. The company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association. Approvals of relevant government agencies (if any).
What are the costs associated with setting up a company in Dubai South?
register fees. Annual license fees. Rental costs for office or commercial space. Legal and administrative services fees. Fees of other government agencies according to the type of activity.
What are the tax advantages for companies in Dubai South?
Tax exemption on income and profits for up to 50 years. Exemption from customs duties on imports and exports. No sales tax.
How long does it take to establish a company in Dubai South?
The process can take from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the completion of documents and procedures.
Can foreigners own a company entirely in Dubai South?
Yes, foreigners can own a company entirely in Dubai South without the need for a local partner.
What are the differences between establishing a company in Dubai South and establishing it in other areas of Dubai?
Dubai South is considered a free zone, which means full foreign ownership and tax and customs exemptions. Strategic location near Al Maktoum International Airport and the Expo 2020 project.
Can profits be transferred outside Dubai South?
Yes, profits and capital can be transferred freely without restrictions.