Dubai South (formerly Dubai World Central) is a large-scale urban development with a dedicated free zone around Al Maktoum International Airport. Here is the 2026 guide.
In this guide:
Dubai South Overview
- Location: Near Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC); 45 km south of Dubai city centre
- Master plan: 145 sq km; one of the world’s largest urban aviation projects
- Regulator: Dubai South Free Zone Authority
- Strategic asset: Future hub as Al Maktoum Airport expands to become world’s largest airport
Dubai South Free Zone Business Districts
- Aviation District: Aviation-related companies; MRO facilities; aircraft maintenance
- Logistics District: Large warehousing; last-mile distribution; e-commerce logistics
- Business District: Offices; business centre; SMEs
- Exhibition District: Near Expo 2020 legacy; events and hospitality
Dubai South Cost 2026
- Business centre desk: AED 10,000-15,000/year
- Flexi office: AED 15,000-25,000/year
- Warehouse/logistics space: Competitive rates vs Dubai city free zones
Dubai South Advantages
- Al Maktoum Airport: Major expansion ongoing; eventual capacity 260 million passengers/year
- EXPO legacy: Expo 2020 infrastructure drives business cluster development
- Cost: Generally lower cost than central Dubai free zones (DMCC, DAFZA)
- Logistics: Large warehousing suitable for e-commerce and regional distribution