Dubai South is a 145 km² urban master plan project anchored by Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai World Central). It encompasses the Dubai South Free Zone, the Logistics District, the Aviation District, and the Residential City — making it one of the world’s most ambitious airport city developments.
Dubai South Free Zone
The Dubai South Free Zone issues licences for aviation, logistics, aerospace MRO, trading, and light manufacturing. It is one of the few UAE free zones with direct airside access to an international airport. Annual licence: AED 10,000–25,000. Key sectors: cargo logistics, ground handling equipment suppliers, MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) companies, and aircraft part traders.
Aviation District
The Aviation District hosts Emirates MRO facilities, dnata cargo, and Jetex FBO (Fixed Base Operator). It is purpose-designed for aerospace manufacturers, MRO providers, and aviation service companies. Hangar space and MRO workshop facilities are available for lease. Companies operating in the Aviation District require approval from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for aviation-specific activities.
Logistics District
The Logistics District offers the UAE’s only integrated airport-seaport-road bonded logistics hub. Companies can access Jebel Ali Port (45 minutes by road), Al Maktoum International Airport airside, and Dubai’s road network — all from a single bonded zone. Logistics costs: warehouse from AED 25/sqft/year.
Al Maktoum International Airport Expansion
When fully built, Al Maktoum International Airport will be the world’s largest airport (designed to handle 260 million passengers annually vs current 40M at Dubai International). The expansion is expected to phase in over 2024–2034, creating significant long-term demand for aviation and logistics companies based in Dubai South.