Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is one of the most sought-after free zones in Dubai, catering to tech companies, startups, and entrepreneurs. To operate in DSO, businesses need to acquire approvals and licenses from the relevant authorities. This guide will take you through the process of getting approval in Dubai Silicon Oasis, along with frequently asked questions and answers to help you navigate the procedure smoothly.

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) is a government-owned free zone established to foster tech-based businesses. It offers a range of incentives to companies, including 100% foreign ownership, tax-free operations, world-class infrastructure, and access to the UAE market. DSO is home to tech giants, innovative startups, and medium-sized enterprises from various sectors.

Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) offers a range of business licenses to cater to various industries and sectors. The types of licenses available in Dubai Silicon Oasis include:

1. Service License

• Description: This license allows companies to carry out services such as consulting, IT services, marketing, and other professional services.

• Industries: IT, consultancy, software, financial services, legal services, etc.
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• Description: A trade license permits the holder to carry out trading activities including the import, export, and distribution of goods.

• Industries: Retail, distribution, import/export companies.
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• Description: This license allows companies to carry out manufacturing and industrial activities within DSO.

• Industries: Manufacturing, production, assembly, and processing industries.
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• Description: Issued to companies operating within the DSO but registered in other UAE jurisdictions. This permit allows companies to operate in the free zone without needing a separate DSO license.

• Industries: Any industry operating under a different jurisdiction but functioning in DSO.
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• Description: Designed for startups and entrepreneurs, this license offers a cost-effective solution for businesses in their early stages.

• Industries: Innovative tech startups, small businesses, and emerging enterprises in various sectors.
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• Description: This license is for institutions that provide educational services such as schools, colleges, universities, training centers, and educational consultancies.

• Industries: Education and training institutions
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• Description: The freelancer permit is suitable for individuals who want to operate as independent professionals. This permit allows individuals to work in their personal capacity and offer their services in fields like IT, media, marketing, and consultancy.

• Industries: Media, IT, design, marketing, consultancy, etc.
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• Description: DSO may also provide specialized licenses for businesses engaged in specific niche activities such as biotechnology, nanotechnology, and renewable energy.

• Industries: Biotechnology, environmental technology, energy solutions, etc.

Before a company can operate in Dubai Silicon Oasis, it must receive the appropriate approval and licensing. DSO offers a seamless process for business registration, allowing companies to quickly establish their presence in Dubai. The approval ensures that businesses comply with DSO’s regulations and are equipped to operate legally within the zone.

1. Determine Business Activity and License Type

• Step: Decide on your business activity (e.g., trading, service, manufacturing) and choose the appropriate license type (Service, Trade, Industrial, etc.).
• Tip: Ensure that your business activity aligns with the types of licenses offered by DSO.
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2. Submit Initial Application

• Step: Prepare the initial application form and submit it to Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA) with the necessary details about your company and its shareholders.
• Documents Needed:
  • Application form
  • Passport copies of shareholders and directors
  • Brief business plan or activity description
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable (for UAE residents under a current visa)
• Tip: Ensure that all documents are accurate to avoid delays.
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3. Initial Approval

• Step: Once the application is submitted, the DSOA reviews it and provides initial approval if the business activity is in line with DSO regulations.
• Timeline: Typically takes a few days.
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4. Submit Legal Documents

• Step: After receiving initial approval, submit the legal documents required to formalize the company setup.
• Documents Needed:
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA)
  • Passport copies and photos of shareholders
  • Board resolution (if applicable)
  • Power of attorney (if applicable)
• Tip: These documents must be notarized and attested, particularly if shareholders are from outside the UAE.
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5. Lease Office Space

• Step: Secure an office or workspace within DSO as having physical office space is mandatory for most business setups. DSO offers options like:
  • Flexi-desk for small companies and startups.
  • Commercial office for established businesses.
• Tip: Choose the space that aligns with your company’s size and requirements.
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6. Payment of Fees

• Step: Once the required documents are approved, you will need to make the necessary payments for:
  • License fee
  • Registration fee
  • Office rent or leasing fee
  • Other applicable fees (such as visa fees)
• Tip: Check the latest fee structure as it may vary depending on the type of license and office space.
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7. Issuance of License

• Step: After all fees are paid and documents are processed, DSOA will issue your business license. This allows you to legally start your business operations in DSO.
• Timeline: The license is typically issued within a few days after fee payment.
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8. Apply for Visas (if needed)

• Step: Once the license is issued, you can apply for employee visas through the DSOA. The number of visas allowed depends on the office space leased.
• Process: Submit necessary documents (passport copies, photos, medical tests, etc.) for visa processing.
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9. Open a Corporate Bank Account

• Step: Open a corporate bank account in the UAE with your trade license and other company documents.
• Documents Needed:
  • Trade License
  • Memorandum and Articles of Association
  • Passport copies of shareholders
• Tip: Compare banking options to find one that best suits your business needs.
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10. Start Business Operations

• Step: After receiving your license and opening a bank account, you can officially begin your business operations within Dubai Silicon Oasis.

Documents Required for DSO Approval

• A detailed business plan.
• Passport copies of shareholders and directors.
• Proof of leased office space.
• Company name approval certificate.
• Proof of address and contact information of shareholders.
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1. What types of businesses can be set up in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

DSO welcomes businesses in the fields of technology, IT, telecommunications, e-commerce, software development, and other knowledge-based sectors. Additionally, DSO supports various types of service, trading, and industrial businesses.

2. How long does the approval process take in DSO?

The approval process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of documents and the nature of the business.

3. Can I own 100% of my business in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

Yes, businesses operating in DSO enjoy 100% foreign ownership, making it attractive for foreign investors and entrepreneurs.

4. Do I need a physical office to get approval in DSO?

Yes, leasing an office space within Dubai Silicon Oasis is mandatory to obtain the business license and final approval.

5. What is the minimum capital requirement for setting up in DSO?

For free zone companies, the minimum capital requirement is AED 100,000. However, the exact amount may vary depending on the type of business.

6. Can I hire international staff for my company in DSO?

Yes, businesses can hire international employees and apply for UAE residence visas for them. DSO offers visa processing services as part of their support to businesses.

7. Is there a renewal process for the license?

Yes, the business license issued by DSO is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Failure to renew the license may lead to penalties.

8. What are the benefits of operating in Dubai Silicon Oasis?

100% foreign ownership.

Zero taxes on income and profits.

State-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities.

Full repatriation of capital and profits.

Easy access to global markets.

9. Can I convert my existing mainland business to DSO?

Yes, existing businesses in the UAE mainland can apply to relocate their operations to Dubai Silicon Oasis by applying for a new business license.

10. How can I contact Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority?

You can contact DSO via their official website or visit their head office located at the Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority headquarters in Dubai.