Dubai South (DWC)
2006
4K+
DWC
Physical Address
Dubai South, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
About Dubai South (DWC)
A master-planned city built around Al Maktoum International Airport, designed as an integrated logistics, aviation, and business hub
About Dubai South
Established in 2006 as Dubai World Central and later rebranded as Dubai South, this ambitious development represents a transformative approach to creating an integrated aerotropolis and economic zone centered around Al Maktoum International Airport. Spanning a massive 145 square kilometers in the southern region of Dubai, the development was conceptualized as a comprehensive airport-integrated ecosystem that would revolutionize global connectivity while creating a complete urban environment where people can live, work, and thrive. The master plan follows a visionary design that prioritizes strategic integration, operational efficiency, and future-focused development—with specialized districts including the Aviation District, Logistics District, Business Park, Residential District, and Commercial District designed to create a cohesive urban environment with the airport as its cornerstone.
What distinguishes Dubai South from conventional free zones is its unprecedented scale and strategic integration with Al Maktoum International Airport, which is planned to become the world’s largest airport with an ultimate capacity of up to 260 million passengers and 16 million tonnes of cargo annually. The zone’s infrastructure includes purpose-built facilities for aviation operations, logistics activities, commercial functions, and residential living—with enhanced transportation systems, specialized business environments, integrated community facilities, and strategic connectivity supporting sophisticated operations across multiple sectors. This physical foundation is complemented by a forward-thinking regulatory framework designed to facilitate global business, with streamlined processes for company establishment, operational licensing, talent acquisition, and international trade that address the unique requirements of organizations seeking strategic positioning within a global aviation hub.
Integrated Aerotropolis Ecosystem
Dubai South has evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem that houses numerous organizations spanning diverse sectors—from international airlines and logistics providers to commercial enterprises, manufacturing companies, and service organizations. This concentration of diverse expertise creates a dynamic environment where aviation connectivity, logistics capabilities, commercial activities, and residential communities converge, facilitating sophisticated operations that leverage the strategic advantages of airport integration across multiple business models and operational approaches.
The zone’s ecosystem extends beyond traditional aviation and logistics to encompass the full spectrum of urban functions—from commercial offices and retail establishments to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and residential communities. This diversity creates a complete urban environment where various functions complement and reinforce each other, enabling comprehensive lifestyle solutions that integrate work, living, and leisure within a single master-planned development. Supporting this core community is a sophisticated network of infrastructure including transportation systems, utility networks, community facilities, and digital connectivity that enhance the functional capabilities of the entire ecosystem.
Available License Types
Choose from a comprehensive range of specialized business licenses designed to support various commercial activities in the DWC free zone
Aviation
Aviation and aerospace services
Commercial
General trading and business activities
Industrial
Manufacturing and production
Maritime
Maritime and shipping operations
Service
Support and service industries
Trading
Import / export and commodity tradingEach license type has specific approvals and requirements to suit different types of businesses. Our experts will help you choose the most appropriate license for your business operations.
Why Choose DWC for Your Business
Discover the unique advantages that make Dubai South (DWC) a leading free zone for international business and strategic growth opportunities
Strategic Airport Integration
Direct integration with Al Maktoum International Airport, providing unprecedented access to global air connectivity, aviation infrastructure, cargo facilities, and passenger networks that create unique operational advantages for businesses with international reach and logistics requirements.
Multimodal Connectivity
Exceptional transportation infrastructure connecting air, land, and sea logistics through integrated networks linking the airport with Jebel Ali Port, major highways, and planned rail systems, creating unparalleled efficiency for supply chain operations and global distribution.
District Specialization
Purpose-designed specialized districts including Aviation District, Logistics District, Business Park, Residential District, and Commercial District, each optimized for specific functions while maintaining strategic integration with the overall aerotropolis ecosystem.
Scalable Growth Environment
Unprecedented capacity for operational expansion and strategic growth, with extensive development areas, flexible facility options, and long-term planning frameworks that accommodate business evolution from initial establishment to global scale operations.
Integrated Urban Ecosystem
Comprehensive development incorporating business, residential, retail, educational, healthcare, and leisure components within a single master-planned environment, creating a complete urban experience where employees can live, work, and thrive in close proximity.
100% Foreign Ownership
Complete ownership of your enterprise without local partner requirements, giving international companies full control over strategic direction, operational management, and business development within a globally-oriented business environment.
Strategic Geographic Positioning
Optimal location at the crossroads of East and West, providing efficient access to markets across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, with flight connections reaching over one-third of the world's population within four hours.
Aviation Ecosystem Advantages
For aviation businesses - immersion in a specialized environment with direct airside access, technical infrastructure, industry clustering, and operational integration with one of the world's most ambitious airport developments.
Logistics Excellence Framework
For logistics operations - purpose-built infrastructure including specialized warehousing, intermodal connections, customs facilities, and distribution networks designed for maximum efficiency and operational performance.
Future-Focused Infrastructure
Access to next-generation utilities, advanced digital connectivity, smart city technologies, and sustainable infrastructure designed to support sophisticated business operations and enhance long-term operational resilience.
Business Community Engagement
Vibrant business ecosystem with regular industry events, knowledge-sharing forums, networking opportunities, and collaborative initiatives that facilitate connections with potential partners, clients, suppliers, and strategic allies.
Integrated Lifestyle Proposition
Comprehensive approach to quality of life with residential communities, retail destinations, educational facilities, healthcare services, and leisure amenities that create an attractive environment for talent recruitment and employee satisfaction.Ready to Join the World's Leading Trading Hub?
Start your commodities trading journey in DWC with expert guidance from Inlex Partners
Setup Process
A streamlined 25-step process to establish your commodity trading business in the Dubai South (DWC)
Strategic Consultation
1-2 days
Engage with Dubai South specialists to discuss your strategic objectives, operational focus, facility requirements, and business goals. This comprehensive consultation addresses how your organization can leverage the unique advantages of an airport-integrated ecosystem and the specific district within Dubai South most suitable for your operations.
Business Activity Assessment
3-5 days
Conduct a preliminary review of your proposed activities, operational model, and business approach to ensure alignment with Dubai South's strategic vision and to identify the optimal district and zone classification for your specific business requirements.
District Selection Analysis
3-5 days
Evaluate the various specialized districts within Dubai South (Aviation District, Logistics District, Business Park, etc.) to determine the optimal location based on your operational requirements, strategic objectives, and business model.
Operational Requirements Evaluation
5-7 days
Conduct comprehensive assessment of your specific operational needs including facility specifications, infrastructure requirements, connectivity needs, and specialized features essential for your business activities.
Site Tour & Location Assessment
2-3 days
Visit available facilities and locations within your selected Dubai South district to evaluate specific sites, assess infrastructure, and identify the optimal physical location for your operations.
Regulatory & Compliance Briefing
1-2 days
Receive comprehensive briefing on relevant regulations, compliance requirements, operational guidelines, and industry standards specific to your business activities within Dubai South and the UAE.
Company Name Reservation
3-5 days
Submit your proposed company name for approval and reservation. Names are evaluated for compliance with naming conventions and to prevent confusion with existing organizations in the UAE registry.
Initial Application Submission
2-3 days
Complete and submit the preliminary application forms with company information, shareholder details, and proposed business activities to initiate the formal review process with Dubai South Authority.
Strategic Business Plan Submission
5-7 days
Submit a comprehensive business plan detailing your operational focus, market approach, growth strategy, and specific objectives for your establishment in Dubai South, with particular attention to how you will leverage the aerotropolis advantages.
Document Submission
3-5 days
Submit required documentation including corporate documents, shareholder information, professional qualifications, and operational specifications through the application portal.
Security Clearance Process
10-15 days
For aviation-related activities or operations in sensitive areas - undergo security evaluation and clearance procedures to ensure compliance with aviation security protocols and airport-proximity requirements.
Application Review
7-10 days
Your complete application undergoes comprehensive review by Dubai South authorities who evaluate strategic alignment, operational viability, and compatibility with the free zone's development objectives and district-specific focus.
Initial Approval
3-5 days
Receive initial approval for your establishment in Dubai South, confirming eligibility to proceed with the registration process for your specific business activities and operational model.
Facility Lease Agreement
3-5 days
Sign the lease agreement for your selected facility within your chosen Dubai South district, specifying operational requirements, technical specifications, and infrastructure needs for your business activities.
Fee Payment
1-2 days
Pay the required fees including registration fee, license fee, facility lease security deposit, and establishment card fee through the online payment portal.
License Issuance
5-7 days
Receive your Dubai South business license, officially authorizing your company to operate within the free zone for specified business activities and operational functions.
Specific Activity Approvals
10-15 days
For certain operations - obtain specific approvals for particular activities, operational processes, or business functions that require specialized authorization from relevant regulatory authorities based on your business focus.
Aviation Coordination
10-20 days
For aviation-related businesses - establish necessary coordination protocols with airport authorities, air navigation services, and aviation regulatory bodies to ensure seamless integration with the airport ecosystem.
Immigration Card Issuance
5-7 days
Obtain your establishment immigration card, enabling your company to sponsor visas for executives, professionals, operational specialists, and support personnel.
Facility Handover
2-3 days
Receive access to your leased facility, including basic infrastructure, utility connections, and standard configurations as specified in your lease agreement.
Specialized Infrastructure Setup
10-20 days
Establish specialized infrastructure connections including enhanced data systems, logistics interfaces, aviation links, or other technical utilities required for your specific operational model.
Operational Setup
15-30 days
Configure your facility with appropriate equipment, operational systems, business infrastructure, and specialized apparatus based on your specific business requirements and operational needs.
Bank Account Opening
7-14 days
Open corporate bank accounts with local or international banks operating in Dubai, facilitating financial operations for your business including operational funding, transaction processing, and expense management.
Staff Visa Processing
15-25 days
Begin processing employment visas for your team members, professional staff, operational specialists, and support personnel, with consideration for specialized qualifications and expertise requirements.
Commencement of Operations
5-10 days
Launch your business activities, operational functions, and commercial services following completion of all setup requirements, system configurations, and operational readiness assessments.
Total Timeline
2-4 weeks typical setup
Documentation
Comprehensive support provided
Expert Guidance
End-to-end assistance
Eligibility Requirements & Documentation
Comprehensive requirements and documentation needed for establishing your free zone business
Required Documents
Passport copies
Color copies of passport with minimum 6 months validity for all shareholders, directors, and key personnel. Additional security clearance may be required for aviation-related activities and operations near airport facilities.
UAE visa copies
For existing UAE residents - copies of current residence visa with sponsor information clearly indicated.
Emirates ID
For existing UAE residents - clear copies of Emirates ID (front and back).
Passport-size photographs
Recent passport-size photographs with white background (8 copies). Additional copies may be required for airport zone access cards and aviation security credentials.
Comprehensive business plan
Detailed business plan outlining your operational focus, strategic objectives, market approach, and growth projections specific to your activities in Dubai South, with particular attention to how your business will leverage the aerotropolis environment.
Permitted Activities
Aviation Services
Provision of specialized services for the aviation industry including aircraft maintenance, flight support, ground handling, and technical operations for airlines and aviation organizations
Logistics Operations
Management and execution of supply chain activities, cargo handling, freight forwarding, distribution services, and transportation coordination for global trade and commerce
Aerospace Manufacturing
Production of aircraft components, aviation equipment, aerospace parts, and specialized materials for the global aviation and aerospace industries
E-Commerce Fulfillment
Management of online retail operations including inventory storage, order processing, package preparation, and distribution services for digital commerce businesses
Commercial Trading
Import, export, and distribution of products, goods, and commodities leveraging the strategic location and transportation connectivity of Dubai South
Restricted Activities
Amenities Available in This Free Zone
Start Your Free Zone Business Journey Today
Get expert guidance on UAE free zone business setup with our comprehensive consultancy services. Schedule your free consultation today.
Get Free Consultation
Contact Our Experts
Free Zone Guide Download
Download our comprehensive guide covering all UAE free zones, comparison charts, and setup requirements.
Download Free Zone GuideStrategic Location & Accessibility
Explore the strategic location and connectivity advantages of this free zone for your business operations
Dubai South, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai, United Arab Emirates