WhatsApp quoteDubai South is the Expo City and Al Maktoum Airport district built for logistics and aviation, and it is one of the locations founders ask GoldenKey about most when planning a Dubai mainland company. GoldenKey arranges the licence, tenancy registration and visas for companies locating in Dubai South, and we can recommend business centres and landlords in the area. Setting up a business in Dubai South means a Dubai mainland licence from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), an office or shop registered in the district and the approvals your activity needs.
Who sets up in Dubai South
Dubai South attracts trading companies, consultancies, tech start-ups and professional firms. Rents, footfall and parking differ from street to street, so we advise viewing two or three units before signing.
Licensing steps for Dubai South
The licence is issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). GoldenKey reserves the name, obtains initial approval, registers your tenancy contract for the Dubai South unit and submits the file; municipality and civil defence approvals follow for shops and food outlets.
Costs
Licence packages for Dubai mainland start from AED 15,000, plus rent for your Dubai South premises and any external approvals. We confirm every figure in writing.
Licensing steps
Step 1Activity and legal form
We pick the precise activity codes from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) list and settle on the legal form — normally a LLC, or a sole establishment for individual professionals. If the authority raises a query on setting up a business in Dubai South at this stage, we handle it the same day.
Step 2Trade name and initial approval
GoldenKey reserves your trade name and obtains initial approval from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), including any external approvals your activity needs.
Step 3Office, MOA and submission
After the MOA is signed and the office tenancy registered, GoldenKey lodges the full application with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Expect clear updates from your GoldenKey consultant while this step runs for setting up a business in Dubai South.
Step 4Licence, Chamber and immigration
The Dubai South mainland licence is released, Chamber membership activated, and we open the establishment and labour files so visa processing can start.
Dubai mainland pricing
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
| Additional visa | AED 3,500 |
|---|---|
| Annual renewal | AED 12,000 |
Prices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-05.
Why GoldenKey
Because GoldenKey works with the licensing authority, the immigration department and the banks every single week, we know exactly which paperwork each of them will ask for on a Dubai South file. Most of our Dubai South clients come to us through referrals from other business owners, and for that reason we take pride in keeping every promise we put in writing.
If you would like a written quotation for setting up a business in Dubai South, use the form below or message us on WhatsApp and we will respond as soon as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need an Emirati partner for a Dubai South mainland company?
For most commercial and industrial activities, no. Since 2021 foreign nationals can own 100% of a Dubai South mainland LLC. A short list of strategic activities still requires Emirati participation, and GoldenKey checks your activity before you commit.
How long does Dubai South mainland company formation take?
With supporting documents and a tenancy contract ready, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) usually issues the licence within 4 working days (Monday to Friday). External approvals for regulated activities add time.
How much office space do I need for a Dubai South mainland licence?
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) requires a registered tenancy for most licences. A small office or a desk in a business centre is enough for a few visas, and the visa quota increases with the floor area.
Can I convert my free zone company to a Dubai South mainland company?
You cannot convert directly, but you can open a mainland branch of your free zone company or set up a new mainland LLC and transfer the business. GoldenKey advises on the most tax-efficient route.
