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Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is the UAE’s premier technology-focused free zone, purpose-built for electronics, IT, and innovation-driven businesses. With over 90,000 square meters of commercial space housing tech giants and ambitious startups alike, DSO offers the infrastructure, ecosystem, and regulatory framework to scale your technology venture in the Middle East.
At Setup Dubai Business, we guide technology entrepreneurs through every stage of Dubai Silicon Oasis company formation—from selecting the right license type to securing your office space and processing investor visas.
Established in 2004 as a fully integrated technology park, Dubai Silicon Oasis operates under the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA)—a government entity dedicated to fostering innovation and technology development. Unlike general-purpose free zones, DSO was specifically designed to support electronics, semiconductors, IT services, and their entire value chains.
The free zone has evolved into a self-contained community where businesses benefit from:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| 100% Foreign Ownership | Full company ownership without local sponsor or partner requirement |
| Tax Efficiency | 0% corporate tax on qualifying free zone income; 9% on non-qualifying income above AED 375,000 |
| Full Repatriation | 100% capital and profit repatriation with no currency restrictions |
| Zero Import/Export Duties | No customs duties on goods imported into or exported from DSO |
| Competitive Lease Rates | Lower operational costs compared to central Dubai free zones |
| Golden Visa Eligibility | Qualifying investors can obtain 10-year UAE residence |
DSO also provides specialized support services including legal and intellectual property assistance, on-site IT infrastructure, and dedicated business support teams—resources particularly valuable for technology startups protecting proprietary innovations.
While Dubai Silicon Oasis specializes in technology, the free zone accommodates a broad range of business activities across multiple sectors:
Technology and Electronics:
Professional and Commercial Services:
For a complete list of permitted activities and guidance on selecting the right business classification, our team can review your specific requirements and recommend the optimal setup structure. Learn more about free zone advantages for entrepreneurs.
To establish your business in Dubai Silicon Oasis, you’ll need to select both a legal structure and a license type that matches your business activities.
Free Zone Establishment (FZE): A single-shareholder entity ideal for individual entrepreneurs or corporate shareholders establishing a wholly-owned subsidiary. The FZE structure offers simplicity and full control over business operations.
Free Zone Company (FZCO): Requires a minimum of two shareholders, which can be individuals, corporations, or a combination. FZCO is suitable for joint ventures or businesses with multiple investors.
Branch Office: An extension of an existing company—whether based in the UAE or internationally. The branch operates under the parent company’s legal identity and must conduct activities aligned with the parent’s scope. Learn more about Dubai free zone company structures.
| License Type | Permitted Activities |
|---|---|
| Service License | Consulting, IT services, software development, professional services |
| Trading License | Import, export, and distribution of specified goods and products |
| Industrial License | Manufacturing, assembly, processing, and packaging operations |
Your trade license can include multiple activities within the same category. Additional activities can be added during the license term as your business expands.
The Dubai Silicon Oasis registration process has been streamlined for efficiency. Here’s what to expect:
Submit your initial application including business plan, proposed activities, and shareholder information. DSOA reviews applications for compliance with free zone regulations and activity eligibility.
Provide all required documentation (detailed below) along with the applicable registration and license fees. Documents undergo verification by DSOA.
Once pre-approved, you’ll receive the electronic agreement outlining terms, conditions, and obligations. This is signed digitally, eliminating the need for in-person attendance for this stage.
For FZE and FZCO structures, sign the share capital declaration confirming the company’s capital structure and shareholder contributions.
Upon completion of all requirements, DSOA issues your electronic business license, enabling you to begin operations, open bank accounts, and process visas.
Timeline: Most DSO licenses are issued within 2-3 weeks when documentation is complete and accurate. Errors or missing documents can extend this timeline significantly.
Prepare the following documents for your Dubai Silicon Oasis company formation:
For corporate shareholders: Additional requirements include Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association, board resolution authorizing the investment, and audited financial statements.
DSO offers flexible workspace solutions to match different business needs and budgets:
Visa allocations are tied to office space size. Our team can advise on the optimal space configuration based on your visa requirements and operational needs. We also assist with virtual office solutions where applicable.
Technology businesses establishing in Dubai Silicon Oasis should be aware of current UAE regulatory requirements:
Corporate Tax: The UAE’s 9% corporate tax applies to taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000. Free zone companies maintaining “qualifying income” (primarily transactions with other free zone entities or specific designated activities) may benefit from the 0% rate. Non-qualifying income is taxed at the standard rate.
VAT Compliance: Registration is mandatory once annual taxable turnover exceeds AED 375,000. Technology services are generally subject to 5% VAT, with specific rules for digital services and cross-border transactions.
E-Invoicing: The UAE’s mandatory e-invoicing system launches in phases from July 2026. Larger enterprises (AED 50M+ revenue) must comply first, with SMEs following in 2027. Technology businesses should ensure their accounting systems are compatible.
Economic Substance: Companies conducting relevant activities must demonstrate adequate economic substance in the UAE, including physical presence, qualified employees, and core income-generating activities performed locally.
Once your DSO license is issued, several operational steps follow:
Corporate Bank Account: Opening a business bank account requires your DSO license, shareholder documentation, and a detailed business plan. Banking due diligence has become more thorough in 2026—our team prepares your documentation package to meet bank requirements.
Visa Processing: DSO companies can sponsor investor visas, employment visas, and dependent visas. Visa allocations depend on your office space size. Our PRO services handle Emirates ID registration, medical tests, and visa stamping.
Ongoing Compliance: Annual license renewal, corporate tax registration, and VAT filings (if applicable) are mandatory. We provide ongoing support to keep your business compliant.
With over a decade of experience in UAE company formation, Setup Dubai Business provides end-to-end support for technology entrepreneurs entering Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Our DSO services include:
We understand the unique requirements of technology businesses—from IP protection considerations to scaling visa allocations as your team grows. Our consultants work to minimize delays and ensure your DSO setup proceeds smoothly.
DSO licenses primarily authorize operations within the free zone and international trade. The 2026 “One Free Zone Passport” initiative and mainland permit options now allow certain free zone businesses to access the broader UAE market. We can advise on your specific situation.
DSO does not impose a minimum capital requirement for most service-based businesses. Costs vary based on license type, office space selection, and visa requirements. Contact us for a detailed cost breakdown based on your specific needs.
Visa allocation depends on your office space size. Flexi desk options provide limited visa allocations, while larger office spaces can support multiple employee visas. We help you plan space requirements based on your staffing projections.
Yes. While DSO specializes in technology, it accommodates various business activities including trading, consulting, and professional services. The tech-focused ecosystem is an advantage, but not a restriction for most business types.
Ready to launch your technology venture in Dubai Silicon Oasis? Contact Setup Dubai Business at +971 55 378 8000 for expert guidance tailored to your business objectives.
for more details call +971 55 378 8000 or e-mail us in info@ebsuae.com
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