Dubai Science Park (DSP)
DSP is a Dubai-based free zone with packages starting from AED 18,540, supporting up to 3 visa allocations, and moderate banking access. Dubai Science Park is a purpose-built free zone focused on science, technology and research. It offers innovation support with labs, office space and R&D facilities for biotech, healthcare and tech firms. Costs are subsidized, making it ~30–40% cheaper than premium zones like DMCC.
From
AED 18,540
Established
2015
Companies
350
Max Visas
3
Banking
Moderate
DSP Packages & Pricing
| Package | License | Visas | Office | Year 1 Total | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 Visa License Package | AED 18,540 | 0 | None | AED 18,540 | AED 18,540 |
| 1 Visa Flexi Desk Package | AED 18,540 | 1 | Flexi Desk | AED 27,740 | AED 22,890 License (18,540) + card renewal (650) + visa renewal (3,000) + insurance (700) = 22,890 |
| 2 Visa Private Office Package | AED 18,540 | 2 | Private Office | AED 33,940 | AED 31,540 |
| 3+ Visa Private Office Package | AED 18,540 | 3 | Private Office | AED 43,140 | AED 40,790 |
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Subsidized licensing: ~30–40% lower cost than premium zones
- Specialized in life sciences, biotech and healthtech with lab facilities
- TECOM/Dubai Holding backing and startup support programs
- 100% foreign ownership and tax/fee exemptions
- Flexible office solutions from shared desks to private labs
- Strong partner network of R&D institutions
- Strategic location near Dubai Marina and media city
Watch out for
- Remote location (Al Barsha South) outside main business districts
- Primarily science/tech companies; limited for other industries
- Higher license fees than general zones (base ~AED 15K)
- Requires more capital for specialized lab facilities
- More regulatory oversight for health/science activities
Visa Information
Max Quota
3 visas
Depends on office size; typically 3 visas for medium office
Processing Time
10 days
Renewal Cost
AED 3,000
Every 2 years
Dependent Visa
AED 2,500
Available Visa Types
Visa Cost Breakdown
Employee Visa
AED 3,500
Investor Visa
AED 3,500
Medical Standard
AED 450
Medical VIP
AED 850
Emirates ID Typing
AED 390
Typically 7–14 working days after application
Banking
Partner Banks
Account opening ~2-4 weeks; requires business plan, passports, tenancy. Emirates NBD, ADCB popular choices.
Features
Mainland Trading
Not eligible for mainland trade
Physical Office Required
Office or flexi desk required for visas
Dual License Allowed
Crypto Friendly
Shared Ownership
Free Zone to Mainland
Online Portal
DDA/TECOM online portal available
Co-working Available
Audit Required
Share Capital Requirement
AED 10,000 (depositable)
Special Ecosystems
Location
Recent Developments
- Oct 2015: TECOM merged DuBiotech & EnPark into Dubai Science Park
- Dec 2021: Rebranded as Dubai Science Park, expanding scope beyond biotech
- Feb 2026: DSP community exceeds 350 companies (media reports)
- Jan 2025: New co-working spaces and startup programs launched
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Dubai Science Park license cost in 2026?
A basic one-activity license (FZ-LLC) costs about AED 18,540 for the first year, not including visas or office. Renewal is similar annually.
What types of activities are allowed in DSP?
Science Park focuses on biotech, pharmaceutical, healthcare, life sciences, renewable energy and tech R&D activities.
How many visas can you get in Dubai Science Park?
Visa quota depends on your office size. Small licenses usually allow 1–3 visas; larger offices and higher license fees allow more.
Does Dubai Science Park require a physical office for setup?
Yes. For visa approvals, DSP requires a flexi desk or office. A flexi is sufficient for single-visa setups; a private office is needed for multiple visas.
Is Dubai Science Park suitable for startups?
Yes. DSP offers subsidized rates (30–40% cheaper than DMCC) and support programs, making it ideal for biotech and tech startups.
Can I get 100% ownership in DSP?
Yes. DSP allows 100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation, with no corporate or income taxes.
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Starting From
AED 18,540 /yr