Dubai South (DWC)
Dubai South, formerly Dubai World Central (DWC), is a master-planned aerotropolis built around Al Maktoum International Airport and next to Expo City Dubai. It suits aviation, logistics, e-commerce, industrial and trading businesses that need airport-side connectivity and large-scale, competitively priced facilities.
Overview
Launched in 2006 as Dubai World Central and rebranded Dubai South in 2015, this 145 sq km master-planned city is built around Al Maktoum International Airport, set to become one of the world's largest airports under a major expansion. It comprises dedicated districts for aviation, logistics, business, exhibitions and residential living, and neighbours Expo City Dubai. Its free zone is operated by the Dubai Aviation City Corporation.
Who it suits
Dubai South is ideal for aviation and aerospace firms, freight forwarders and 3PL operators, e-commerce and fulfilment businesses, distributors and traders, and light-industrial and manufacturing companies. The adjacent Logistics District and airport, plus large land and warehouse options, make it a strong choice for firms handling volume cargo or building regional distribution operations.
Licences & activities
Dubai South offers commercial, service, industrial, logistics, education and e-commerce licences across its business and logistics districts. Facilities range from offices and co-working to warehouses, logistics units and land plots for custom facilities. Aviation-regulated activities require additional approvals from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) alongside the free-zone licence.
Setting up
Typical steps are: choose your activity, legal form and facility (office, warehouse or land); submit your application and documents to Dubai South; obtain initial approval; sign your lease; pay registration and licence fees; and receive your licence and establishment card before processing visas. Larger logistics and industrial projects involve extra facility and safety approvals.
Accounting & audit requirements
Dubai South companies must keep proper accounting records and are generally required to submit audited financial statements at renewal, prepared by an approved auditor under IFRS. Audited accounts also support a 0% Corporate Tax claim as a Qualifying Free Zone Person, which is especially relevant for logistics, distribution and manufacturing income. AOPA member firms provide accounting, inventory and cost controls, statutory audit and Corporate Tax compliance for Dubai South businesses.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dubai South built around?
Dubai South is an aerotropolis built around Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), with dedicated aviation, logistics, business and residential districts, and sits next to Expo City Dubai.
Was Dubai South previously called something else?
Yes. Dubai South was launched in 2006 as Dubai World Central (DWC) and rebranded Dubai South in 2015; the DWC name is still widely used, especially for the airport.
Why choose Dubai South for logistics?
Its position around Al Maktoum International Airport and its dedicated Logistics District, warehouses and land plots make it ideal for freight, e-commerce fulfilment and large-scale distribution.
Do Dubai South companies need audited accounts?
Dubai South generally requires audited financial statements from an approved auditor at renewal, and these also support any 0% Corporate Tax claim on qualifying income.