Business Setup in Dubai Science Park Free Zone: 2025 Guide
Dubai Science Park (DSP) is the region’s first free zone community dedicated to the full value chain of the science, health, and pharma sectors. Established in 2005 and managed by TECOM Group, it brings together over 3,600 professionals and global companies including Pfizer, Olympus, Boston Scientific, and Himalaya within a single, purpose-built campus in Al Barsha South, Dubai.
If you are looking to set up a pharmaceutical company, medical device business, research and development facility, or any business operating in the life, energy, or environmental sciences sectors, DSP offers a compelling combination of world-class laboratory infrastructure, a supportive regulatory environment, 100% foreign ownership, and zero personal income tax.
This guide covers everything you need to know: what DSP is, who regulates it, which business activities and licence types are available, how to register a company step by step, what documents you need, what office and laboratory options exist, and how DSP compares to other free zones in Dubai. By the end, you will have a clear, complete picture of whether DSP is the right home for your business.
What is Dubai Science Park and who regulates it?
Dubai Science Park is a free zone authority established and managed by TECOM Group, one of Dubai’s most prominent business ecosystem developers. TECOM Group operates a portfolio of industry-focused free zone communities across Dubai, including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Knowledge Park, and Dubai Production City, among others.
DSP was purpose-built to support businesses across the entire science value chain: from discovery and research through to manufacturing, distribution, and commercial operations. According to DSP’s official website (dsp.ae), the park was designed as a hub specifically for pharma, health and wellness, life sciences, human sciences, plant sciences, material sciences, environmental sciences, and energy sciences.
The free zone is located in Barsha South, Dubai, which places it near the Mall of the Emirates, Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, and a thriving residential and retail community. Its central location offers excellent connectivity to the rest of Dubai and to Dubai’s key road network.
TECOM Group acts as the regulatory authority for companies registered within DSP. All licensing, establishment cards, and visa quotas are issued under TECOM Group’s jurisdiction. Day-to-day government services, including visa processing, licensing renewals, and corporate approvals, are handled through axs Services, TECOM Group’s integrated digital services platform.
What business activities and licence types are available at Dubai Science Park?
Licence Categories
According to DSP’s official guidance, businesses setting up at Dubai Science Park can obtain three main categories of licence, depending on the nature of their activities:
- Commercial Licence: For trading, distribution, and commercial operations relating to science and health products.
- Industrial/Manufacturing Licence: For companies engaged in light manufacturing, production, assembly, and processing of science-related products.
- Service/Professional Licence: For consultancy, research and development, testing, diagnostics, and professional services in the science and health sectors.
Permitted Business Activities
DSP covers a broad range of activities across the science, health, and pharma sectors. The following activity categories are permitted at DSP, as stated on the official DSP website:
- Pharmaceuticals: Drug manufacturing, packaging, distribution, and clinical research.
- Medical devices and supplies: Manufacturing, distribution, and maintenance of medical equipment and devices.
- Biotechnology: Research, testing, and development of biological compounds and solutions.
- Life sciences: Human, plant, and material sciences research and development.
- Food and nutrition sciences: Food technology, nutrition research, and food safety testing.
- Cosmetics and perfumery: Production and distribution of cosmetic and fragrance products.
- Environmental sciences: Environmental monitoring, water treatment, and waste management.
- Energy sciences: Renewable energy research, energy efficiency consultancy, and related manufacturing.
- Agriculture: Plant science, agri-tech, and agricultural product development.
- Diagnostics and testing: Clinical laboratory testing, diagnostics, and quality assurance services.
Companies that do not fall clearly within these categories should contact DSP directly via dsp.ae/connect/contact-us to discuss whether their activities qualify for a DSP licence.
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What types of company can be registered at Dubai Science Park?
Dubai Science Park permits two primary structures for business registration within the free zone:
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
A Free Zone LLC is the most common structure used by entrepreneurs and businesses setting up at DSP. It allows one or more shareholders (individuals or corporate entities) to hold a licence under the DSP jurisdiction. You can have 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a UAE national sponsor or partner. This is the standard route for new market entrants, startups, and established international businesses opening a new UAE entity.
Branch of a Foreign Company
An existing foreign company can establish a branch office at DSP. A branch is an extension of the parent company and operates under the same legal identity. It does not require separate share capital but will need to submit parent company documents as part of the registration process. This is a common route for multinational corporations that want a formal UAE presence linked to their global entity.
Branch of a UAE Company
A company already registered elsewhere in the UAE (whether mainland or another free zone) can open a DSP branch to operate within the park. This structure is useful for businesses that already hold a UAE licence but wish to expand their footprint or access DSP’s specialist facilities.
What are the steps to set up a company at Dubai Science Park?
Setting up at Dubai Science Park follows a structured process handled through DSP’s online business setup portal and the axs Services platform. According to DSP’s official guidance, the process typically takes around 15 business days from application to licence issuance, depending on the completeness of your documentation.
- Choose your licence type and business activity. Visit dsp.ae/offerings/set-up-your-business and complete the enquiry form. The DSP team will match you with the right licence category based on your sector and planned activities.
- Submit your application. Once you have selected your licence type and business activity, submit the formal application online or through the axs Services platform (axs2.my.site.com). Upload the required documents at this stage.
- Receive initial approval. DSP will review your application and documents. An initial approval letter (or a request for additional information) will be issued once the review is complete.
- Select your space. Choose from DSP’s range of commercial spaces, laboratories, light industrial units, co-working spaces, or warehouses, depending on your business requirements. DSP’s team can advise on suitable options.
- Sign your lease agreement. Once you have selected and agreed to a space, sign the lease with DSP.
- Pay licence and registration fees. Fees are paid upon finalisation of your licence application. Contact DSP directly for current pricing, as fees are not publicly listed on the DSP website.
- Receive your DSP trade licence. Your licence will be issued following payment confirmation. You are now legally authorised to operate within DSP.
- Apply for your establishment card. The establishment card is required before you can apply for employee residence visas. This is processed through axs Services.
Apply for employee and investor visas. Submit visa applications through axs Services. Visa quotas are linked to your office or facility size within DSP.
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What documents are required to register a company at Dubai Science Park?
The following documents are typically required for a DSP licence application. The precise list may vary depending on your company structure and business activity. You should verify the current requirements directly with DSP or through axs Services.
For a New Free Zone LLC (Individual Shareholders)
- Passport copies of all shareholders and proposed directors.
- A recent passport-sized photograph of each shareholder.
- Completed DSP application form.
- A business plan outlining your activities, projected revenues, and staffing requirements (required for some activity categories).
- Bank reference letter (required for some applications).
- UAE residence visa copy or entry stamp (if the applicant is already in the UAE).
For a Branch of a Foreign Company
- Passport copies of proposed authorised signatories.
- Certified copies of the parent company’s certificate of incorporation.
- Certified copy of the parent company’s memorandum and articles of association.
- Parent company board resolution authorising the establishment of the DSP branch.
- Certificate of good standing from the parent company’s jurisdiction.
- Power of attorney appointing the branch manager.
- Audited financial statements of the parent company (for the most recent financial year).
All foreign documents must be notarised, apostilled (or attested by the UAE Embassy in the country of origin), and then attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. DSP’s axs Services team can advise on the specific attestation requirements for your jurisdiction.
What are the government fees and setup costs at Dubai Science Park?
Dubai Science Park does not publish a fixed public fee schedule on its official website. This is consistent with TECOM Group’s approach across its portfolio of free zones, where pricing is based on the specific licence type, number of activities, facility type, and space requirements. To get an accurate quote, you should contact DSP directly via dsp.ae/offerings/set-up-your-business.
The table below provides indicative cost categories to help you plan your budget. These are cost heads, not fixed amounts, and you should verify the current figures directly with DSP.
| Fee Item | AED (approx.) | USD Equivalent |
| Trade licence fee (annual) | Contact DSP for pricing | Contact DSP for pricing |
| Registration / establishment fee (one-off) | Contact DSP for pricing | Contact DSP for pricing |
| Establishment card (annual) | Contact DSP for pricing | Contact DSP for pricing |
| Office / facility lease (annual) | Varies by size and type | Varies by size and type |
| Visa fees (per visa) | Approx. AED 3,000 to 5,000 per visa (government fees only) | Approx. USD 820 to 1,360 |
| GoFreelance permit (freelancers only) | AED 7,500 per year | Approx. USD 2,040 |
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What is the minimum share capital requirement at Dubai Science Park?
Dubai Science Park does not publicly state a mandatory minimum share capital requirement on its official website. This is common for free zone LLCs registered under TECOM Group. However, for regulatory and banking purposes, you will typically need to declare a share capital amount in your incorporation documents.
Branches of foreign companies do not require separate share capital, as they operate under the financial guarantees and paid-up capital of the parent entity.
You should confirm the current share capital requirements directly with DSP or with the axs Services team when you submit your application, as requirements can vary by activity type and company structure.
How many visas can I get with a Dubai Science Park licence?
The number of UAE residence visas you can obtain through a DSP licence depends primarily on the size and type of premises you occupy within the free zone. Under TECOM Group’s standard visa allocation policy, visa quotas are generally linked to the physical space leased:
- The standard allocation is based on approximately 9 square metres of office space per visa, although the exact formula may vary by facility type and licence category.
- Larger commercial units, laboratory spaces, light industrial units, and warehouses naturally support higher visa quotas.
- The GoFreelance permit from TECOM Group includes residency visa eligibility in addition to the freelancer permit (establishment card and visa fees are additional to the base GoFreelance fee of AED 7,500 per year).
Visa processing for all DSP companies is handled through axs Services, TECOM Group’s one-stop digital platform for government and corporate services. According to axs Services guidance, the platform provides integrated management of visa applications, renewals, and cancellations.
You should contact DSP directly at dsp.ae/connect/contact-us to confirm the exact visa quota applicable to your chosen facility type and space size before committing to a lease.
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What facilities and office options are available at Dubai Science Park?
One of DSP’s most significant advantages over other UAE free zones is the sheer variety and specialist quality of its physical infrastructure. According to DSP’s official offerings pages, the following facility types are available:
Commercial Office Spaces
DSP offers a wide selection of flexible, purpose-built offices within its landmark buildings. Spaces range from smaller private offices suitable for a representative team to larger suites for established corporations. DSP’s commercial space supports research, product development, testing, diagnostics, manufacturing, and production activities. Ample parking, facility management services, and advanced security are included.
LEED-Certified Laboratory Spaces
DSP’s Laboratory Complex holds a LEED Silver Certification, making it one of the few purpose-built laboratory facilities in the region built to the highest global environmental and technical standards. According to DSP’s official laboratories page, these spaces are designed for:
- Medical and pharmaceutical research and production.
- Perfumery and cosmetics testing and manufacturing.
- Food and beverage (F&B) laboratory work.
- Environmental testing and diagnostics.
The Laboratory Complex is fitted with air exhaust and ventilation systems, acid-resistant drainage, and a pH neutralisation system, ensuring compliance with the demanding requirements of pharmaceutical and chemical research. Shell and core units allow tenants to customise the interior to their specific technical needs.
Light Industrial Units (LIUs)
For businesses that require production or manufacturing space, DSP offers multipurpose Light Industrial Units with grade-A build standards. According to DSP’s official LIU page, units at Dubai Science Park are available in sizes ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 sq ft. Key features include:
- Mezzanine office space included within each unit.
- State-of-the-art fire protection systems.
- 24/7 security and access control.
- Dedicated service roads for heavy vehicles and forklifts.
- Option to join multiple units for larger footprints.
- Suitable for storage, showroom, production, and light manufacturing.
Warehouses
DSP’s warehouses are designed for storage, showroom, distribution, logistics, and light manufacturing operations, particularly for companies in the science sector. According to DSP’s official warehouses page, units range from 6,400 to 16,800 sq ft and include:
- Mezzanine floor suitable for office and pantry use.
- Internal light fittings and advanced fire protection systems.
- On-site parking and a dedicated loading area.
- 24/7 security.
- Suitability for cold storage, chemical storage, and general storage.
- Options to integrate office and retail showroom space within the warehouse unit.
Co-working Spaces (D/Quarters)
DSP offers flexible co-working memberships through D/Quarters, TECOM Group’s co-working brand. This option is ideal for early-stage businesses, freelancers, and teams that need a professional base without committing to a dedicated office lease. Co-working members receive access to shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and community events.
in5 Science Incubator
Situated within Dubai Science Park, in5 Science is TECOM Group’s startup incubation centre focused on science-sector entrepreneurs. According to the official in5/DSP page, in5 has supported over 940 startups across its four verticals (Tech, Design, Media, and Science). in5 Science specifically supports businesses in life, energy, and environmental sciences through advanced facilities, specialist infrastructure, and access to a globally connected innovation community. Services include business setup support, creative workspaces, mentorship, workshops and events, and investor connections.
GoFreelance
DSP, through TECOM Group, offers a GoFreelance permit for independent professionals. As stated on DSP’s official GoFreelance page, the package costs AED 7,500 per year and includes the freelancer permit and access to co-working spaces. Residency visa eligibility and an establishment card are available at additional cost. The GoFreelance permit is available for activities in tech, media, design, and education sectors across TECOM Group’s portfolio of communities.
What are the key benefits of setting up a business at Dubai Science Park?
Setting up at Dubai Science Park offers a combination of regulatory benefits, physical infrastructure advantages, and community benefits that are difficult to replicate elsewhere in the region. Here is a summary of the principal advantages:
100% Foreign Ownership
As a TECOM Group free zone, DSP permits 100% foreign ownership of your business with no requirement for a UAE national partner or sponsor. This is one of the most important benefits for international investors and entrepreneurs entering the UAE market.
No Personal Income Tax
There is no personal income tax in the UAE. Salary income and dividends received by individuals are not subject to income tax, making the UAE an attractive location for skilled professionals and business owners alike.
Full Repatriation of Profits and Capital
DSP companies are permitted to repatriate 100% of their profits and capital to their home countries without restriction, providing investors with full financial flexibility.
Corporate Tax Position
Free zone entities at DSP may qualify for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income under the UAE Corporate Tax Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022), provided they meet the Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) criteria maintained by the UAE Federal Tax Authority. This is subject to compliance with the relevant conditions and should be confirmed with a qualified tax adviser.
World-Class Specialist Infrastructure
DSP is one of very few locations in the MENA region with LEED-certified laboratory facilities purpose-built for pharmaceutical and life sciences use. This removes a significant barrier to entry for businesses that require specialist research, testing, and manufacturing infrastructure but do not want to build it themselves.
Established Global Ecosystem
With global brands such as Pfizer, Olympus, Boston Scientific, Firmenich, Himalaya, and Phoenix Contact operating within DSP’s community, new entrants benefit from proximity to established industry leaders, potential partnerships, and a talent pool familiar with the science and health sectors.
TECOM Group’s axs Services Platform
All licensing, visa, and government services at DSP are managed through axs Services, TECOM Group’s integrated digital platform. This one-stop service model significantly reduces the administrative burden on business owners managing renewals, visa applications, and corporate documentation.
Quality-of-Life Infrastructure
DSP’s holistic community design means that employees and their families benefit from access to schools (Repton, Kings School Al Barsha, GEMS Schools), hospitals (Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Medcare Medical Centre, Emirates Hospital), hotels (Holiday Inn and others), residential options (Montrose Residence, Villa Lantana), and a range of retail and leisure facilities all within or immediately adjacent to the DSP campus.
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Are there any unique advantages or incentives at Dubai Science Park?
Beyond the standard free zone benefits, DSP has several features that distinguish it from other UAE free zones:
The Region’s First Science-Dedicated Free Zone
According to DSP’s official website, Dubai Science Park is the region’s first free zone community serving the entire value chain of the science, health, and pharma sectors. This first-mover advantage means DSP has had over two decades to build the specialist regulatory frameworks, facilities, and community networks that science-sector businesses need.
LEED Silver Laboratory Complex
The LEED Silver-certified Laboratory Complex is a rarity in the UAE and the wider region. For pharmaceutical and research businesses, having laboratory space that meets international environmental and technical standards from day one removes significant capital expenditure and time from the setup process.
in5 Science: Direct Access to the Innovation Ecosystem
The presence of in5 Science within DSP creates a direct pathway for startups and established companies to collaborate, access mentorship, and connect with investors and global industry partners. The wider in5 network has supported over 940 startups across its four verticals, and the science-focused track provides specialist support unavailable at most other free zones.
Dubai’s Science and Innovation Strategy
Dubai’s broader positioning as a global hub for science, knowledge, and exploration, as referenced on DSP’s Why Dubai page, provides a strategic tailwind for DSP-registered businesses. Government initiatives supporting innovation, research, and the commercialisation of scientific discoveries create a favourable operating environment for DSP’s tenants.
Proximity to Key Healthcare Facilities
The location of Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Medcare Medical Centre, and Emirates Hospital within or immediately adjacent to DSP is particularly relevant for medical device companies, clinical service providers, and healthcare technology businesses that benefit from close proximity to clinical partners.
How does Dubai Science Park compare to other free zones and mainland Dubai?
Choosing the right UAE jurisdiction is one of the most important decisions you will make. The table below compares DSP against a selection of other common options for science and health sector businesses:
DSP vs DMCC vs Dubai Mainland vs IFZA [Feature Comparison]
| Feature | Dubai Science Park (DSP) | DMCC | Dubai Mainland (DED) | IFZA |
| Regulator | TECOM Group | DMCC Authority | Dubai DED / MOHRE | IFZA (Sharjah/Dubai) |
| Specialist Sector | Science, health, pharma | Commodities, general | All sectors | General / flexible |
| LEED-Certified Labs | Yes | No | No | No |
| 100% Foreign Ownership | Yes | Yes | Yes (since 2021) | Yes |
| Minimum Capital | Not published | Varies by activity | Varies by activity | No stated minimum |
| Visa Allocation | By space size | By space size | By staff count / DED rules | By package |
| Co-working Option | Yes (D/Quarters) | Yes | Limited | Yes |
| Startup Incubator | Yes (in5 Science) | No | No | No |
| Government Services | axs Services (digital) | DMCC portal | Dubai Biz portal | IFZA portal |
| GoFreelance Option | Yes (AED 7,500/yr) | No | No | No |
DSP is the standout choice for businesses where laboratory access, pharmaceutical manufacturing, or life sciences R&D is central to the operation. DMCC and IFZA offer more general-purpose free zone options with broader activity lists but do not provide the specialist infrastructure that DSP offers. Dubai mainland through the DED allows unrestricted access to the local UAE market but requires different structural considerations.
The right choice ultimately depends on your specific business activity, the facilities you need, and your market access requirements. businesssetuphq.com’s advisers can help you weigh these options against your specific circumstances.
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Tips for Setting Up at Dubai Science Park
| Tip 1: Use the Find Your Fit tool. Before contacting DSP, use the Find Your Fit selector at dsp.ae/offerings/find-your-fit to narrow down which facility type best matches your team size and business needs. It saves time and helps the DSP sales team direct you to the right offering faster. Tip 2: Plan your visa quota before selecting your space. The number of visas you can sponsor is directly linked to the floor space you lease. If you know you will need to hire a team of 10 people, make sure the space you choose will support at least 10 visas under DSP’s allocation rules. Ask DSP to confirm the visa-to-space formula for your specific facility type before signing a lease. Tip 3: Explore in5 Science for early-stage businesses. If you are a startup or pre-revenue company, in5 Science at DSP can be a lower-cost entry point into the DSP ecosystem. You get access to specialist infrastructure, mentorship, and investor networks at a cost structure suited to early-stage businesses before scaling into a full commercial licence. Tip 4: Get your documents attested early. Attestation of foreign documents (notarisation, apostille, UAE Embassy attestation, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation) takes time. In some countries, the process can take two to four weeks or longer. Start the attestation process as early as possible to avoid delays in your registration timeline. Tip 5: Use axs Services from day one. TECOM Group’s axs Services platform manages all government services for DSP companies in a single digital environment. Register your business account on the platform as soon as your licence is issued so that you can manage renewals, visa applications, and establishment card updates efficiently without needing to visit government offices in person. |
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Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai Science Park Business Setup
Yes. As confirmed on DSP’s official website, Dubai Science Park is a TECOM Group free zone that offers 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a UAE national shareholder or sponsor.
There is no personal income tax in the UAE, including for individuals operating within DSP. For corporate tax, the UAE introduced a 9% corporate income tax on taxable profits exceeding AED 375,000 from June 2023 under Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022. Free zone entities may qualify for 0% corporate tax on qualifying income if they meet the Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) criteria. You should seek tax advice to confirm your entity’s position.
Yes. There are no restrictions on the repatriation of profits or capital for DSP companies, as confirmed on DSP’s official website.
The registration process at DSP typically takes approximately 15 business days from the point of application submission, assuming all required documents are in order. This timeline is referenced in publicly available information about DSP’s setup process. The axs Services platform accelerates the process by handling government services digitally.
Yes, through TECOM Group’s GoFreelance programme. The freelance permit is available for activities in tech, media, design, and education. The annual fee is AED 7,500, which includes the freelancer permit and access to co-working spaces. Residency visa fees and the establishment card are charged separately. For details, visit dsp.ae/offerings/go-freelance.
axs Services is TECOM Group’s integrated digital services platform. It acts as the one-stop shop for all government and corporate services for DSP-registered companies, including visa applications and renewals, licence renewals, establishment card management, and other regulatory approvals. Companies can access axs Services at axs2.my.site.com.
DSP operates a LEED Silver-certified Laboratory Complex designed to the highest global standards for pharmaceutical research, cosmetics and perfumery, food and beverage testing, and environmental diagnostics. The labs include air exhaust and ventilation systems, acid-resistant drainage, and a pH neutralisation system. Units are offered as shell and core, allowing tenants to configure the interior to their specific requirements.
Yes. DSP has an active startup ecosystem through in5 Science, TECOM Group’s incubation centre for science-sector entrepreneurs. in5 Science provides business setup support, co-working spaces, mentorship, workshops, and investor connections. For early-stage companies, in5 Science can be a cost-effective entry into the DSP community before transitioning to a full commercial licence.
Yes. The DSP community includes residential options such as Montrose Residence and Villa Lantana, along with access to a range of international schools (Repton, Kings School Al Barsha, GEMS Schools), healthcare facilities (Mediclinic Parkview Hospital, Medcare Medical Centre, Emirates Hospital), hotels (including Holiday Inn), retail (My City Centre Al Barsha, Mall of the Emirates nearby), and fitness facilities.
DSP is the specialist choice for science, health, and pharma businesses. Unlike DMCC or IFZA, DSP offers purpose-built LEED-certified laboratory spaces, light industrial units configured for pharmaceutical and life sciences production, and an ecosystem of global health and science companies. DMCC and IFZA offer broader activity lists suited to general trading and service businesses but do not replicate DSP’s specialist infrastructure or sector-focused community.
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