Business Setup in Dubai Silicon Oasis: Licenses, Costs & Process
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is Dubai’s technology-focused free zone, built and operated by the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). It is designed for electronics, IT, software, e-commerce, AI, and industrial companies, and is one of the few free zones in Dubai that supports light manufacturing alongside office activities — all in a self-contained, 7-square-kilometre technology park.
Why Set Up in Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Tech & manufacturing friendly – permits for software, electronics assembly, warehousing, and R&D alongside standard service licences.
- Government-owned authority – DSOA/DIEZ issues the license directly; setup is digital and transparent.
- Integrated community – offices, warehouses, and residential villas in one park, with the Dubai Silicon Oasis Mall.
- 100% foreign ownership & 0% income tax – standard free zone benefits.
DSO License Types
| License | Activities | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Trading | Electronics, IT hardware, general trading | from AED 9,000 |
| Service / Consulting | Software, digital services, consultancy, marketing | from AED 9,000 |
| Industrial / Manufacturing | Assembly, production, warehousing | from AED 12,000 (varies by unit) |
| E-commerce | Online retail with warehousing option | from AED 10,000 |
Office Options in DSO
DSO offers flexi-desks, dedicated desks, private offices, and serviced units. For industrial licences, you can lease warehouse and manufacturing space inside the park – something most service-only free zones cannot offer.
DSO vs Other Free Zones: How to Choose
- DSO – pick if you need tech, e-commerce with warehousing, or light manufacturing.
- DMCC (JLT) – pick for commodities trading and international trade infrastructure.
- IFZA – pick for the lowest-cost consultant/freelancer setup with a Dubai address.
- Mainland – pick if you must trade with UAE government or open a retail shop.
Setup Process in DSO
- Confirm your activity code and jurisdiction fit (free zone vs mainland).
- Reserve your trade name with DSOA.
- Prepare passport copies and business documents.
- Submit the application – approval typically takes 3–7 business days.
- Receive the license, apply for your visa, and open a bank account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dubai Silicon Oasis part of the Dubai government? It is operated by the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), a Dubai government entity, so the license is issued directly by an official authority.
Can I live and work in DSO? Yes – DSO includes residential communities, so you can rent accommodation close to your office.
Does a DSO license allow importing and exporting? Yes – trading licences include import/export activity for the goods listed on your license.
What is the minimum cost to start in DSO? A services or trading licence starts from around AED 9,000, with visa and PRO services quoted separately.
