Strained GaSb quantum dots having a staggered band lineup (type II) are formed in a GaAs matrix using molecular beam epitaxy. The dots are growing in a self‐organized way on a GaAs(100) surface upon deposition of 1.2 nm GaSb followed by a GaAs cap layer. Plan‐view transmission electron microscopy studies reveal well developed rectangular‐shaped GaSb islands with a lateral extension of ∼20 nm. Intense photoluminescence (PL) is observed at an energy lower than the GaSb wetting layer luminescence. This line is attributed to radiative recombination of 0D holes located in the GaSb dots and electrons located in the surrounding regions. The GaSb quantum dot PL dominates the spectrum up to high excitation densities and up to room temperature. ©1995 American Institute of Physics.