Dubai Silicon Oasis License Cost 2026: Tech Business Setup Fees, Visas & Full Pricing Guide
Overview of DSO and Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost
Dubai Silicon Oasis is one of the leading Innovation and Technology free zones in Dubai named as “city within a city” for scalable technology, R&D and tech startup firms. It offers 0% corporate tax, modern infrastructure and 100% foreign ownership, transforming Dubai Silicon Oasis licence cost as competitive in comparison to the premium zones like DMCC.
Why DSO is popular for tech startups?
Following are the reasons for which DSO is popular for technology startups. Here it is:
- Strategic tech park environment.
- Modern Innovation and infrastructure ecosystem.
- Flexible businesses such as consultation, software and IT.
Also read about Dubai professional license 2026.
License types in DSO
DSO license types are as follows:
- Service license: Professional services and IT solutions.
- Trade license: Import-export services.
- Industrial license: Light manufacturing & assembly.
DSO registration fees
DSO registration fee type and its estimated charges are as follows:
| Fee Type | Estimated AED |
| Registration Fee | ~3,000–5,000 |
| Name Reservation | ~200 |
PRO tips: License cost depends on package and activity selected.
Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost by activity (IT, tech, consulting)
There’s not a single charge condition if you have different business activities in Dubai Silicon Oasis. Therefore, you need to acknowledge the Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost based on your business activity.
| License | Cost Range (AED/year) |
| Trade License | 12,000–18,000 |
| Service License | 12,000–20,000 |
| Industrial License | ~12,000+ |
Office & coworking cost in DSO
Variability is also there in flexi-desk and office criteria. Here is what you need to learn.
- Flexi-desk: AED 10,000 to 25,000/year.
- Dedicated office: AED 35,000 to 60,000/year.
Do read about the top 10 best free zones in Dubai 2026!
Visa cost in DSO
| Visa Expense | Approx AED |
| Work/Investor Visa | 3,000–5,000 |
| Medical/Emirates ID | Included/Extra |
Total Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost breakdown
Don’t go too far without stepping with prior consideration! It’s exactly means to say that 1st year Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost breakdown is worth knowing. Here is a quick breakdown.
| Item | Estimated AED |
| License Fee | 12,000–20,000 |
| Registration | 3,000–5,000 |
| Office (Flexi) | 10,000–25,000 |
| 1 Visa | ~5,000 |
| Total Estimate | ~30,000–55,000 |
Annual Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost for renewal
Renewal charges comprise:
- License renewal: (12,000 to 20,000)
- Office lease renewal.
- Visa renewals: (3000 to 5,000/person)
DSO vs Dubai Internet City vs IFZA cost comparison
Comparatively, you will find DSO worth investing in if your focus is tech & innovation hub.
| Free Zone | License Cost (AED) | Environment |
| DSO | 12,000–20,000 | Tech & innovation hub |
| Dubai Internet City | ~15,000–25,000 | ICT & enterprise tech |
| IFZA (within DSO) | ~12,900–21,400 | Lower cost package |
Best business types for DSO
At DSO, best business types found are:
- Software & apps.
- Tech consultancy.
- R&D and electronics
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages and disadvantages of DSO are as follows:
Adv 1. Startup support & tech ecosystem.
Adv 2. 100% foreign ownership.
Adv 3. Zero corporate tax.
Disadv 1. Office lease may require costs.
Disadv 2. Visa quotas tied to space size.
Hidden Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost & compliance fees
Here comes the concerning part regarding Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost including compliance fees. Let’s take a look:
- Bank account minimum deposit.
- Accounting and audit.
- PRO/legalisation services.
Dubai Silicon Oasis license cost optimization tips
Here are some optimisation tips for you:
- Start with a flexi-desk package.
- Bundle visas with office packages early.
- Compare DSO vs IFZA in DSO packages for savings.
If you are looking for the best consultant to start in DSO – Lets connect with us! As we are the most reliable modern and highly experienced partner to give you transparency, 100% track record and inclusion in decision making, we can be your right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the basic Dubai Silicon Oasis licence cost?
It is around AED 12,000 to 20,000 per year based on activity.
Are visas in the licence cost?
No — visas are additional fees.
Is office space mandatory?
Yes, a flexi-desk or dedicated office is required.
Can I get 100% ownership at DSO?
Yes, DSO allows 100% foreign ownership.
How soon is the license issued?
Typically within 1 – 2 weeks.
