Logistics & Freight Setup in Dubai
Why Establish Logistics & Freight in Dubai?
Centrally positioned between East and West, Dubai is one of the world's premier logistics and supply chain capitals. Operating adjacent to Jebel Ali Port or Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai South) offers businesses multimodal sea-air logistics integration, bonded warehousing, and seamless global re-export capabilities.
100% Foreign Ownership
Dubai South, JAFZA, or DED Mainland
1 to 2 weeks
Key Strategic Advantages:
- 100% foreign – 100% foreign ownership for freight forwarding, 3PL, and warehousing operators
- Seamless integration – Seamless integration between Jebel Ali Port (world's largest man-made harbour) and Al Maktoum Airport
- Fast customs – Fast customs clearance and digital manifests via Dubai Customs Mirsal II platform
- Proximity to – Proximity to major e-commerce fulfillment hubs and regional distribution centres
Regulatory Notice & Independent Service Disclaimer: PRO Hub Business Services LLC is an independent private corporate consultancy and document clearing services provider (Commercial Licence No. CN-1742757). We are not a government entity, nor are we affiliated with or endorsed by any UAE government agency or ministry. Official commercial trade licences, approvals, and visas are granted and issued solely by the competent UAE government authorities (such as DED, DET, ICP, MOHRE, and relevant Dubai Free Zone Authorities). Government applications and statutory filings can also be submitted directly through official government portals at statutory fees without third-party services.
Permitted Business Activities & Scope
Licensing for logistics & freight in Dubai is tied directly to regulated activities defined by DED / DET and sector authorities. Typical permitted commercial scopes include:
Air, sea, and land freight forwarding and cargo brokerage
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Third-party logistics (3PL) and fulfillment warehousing
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Cold chain logistics and temperature-controlled food distribution
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Customs clearing and transit shipping documentation
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Last-mile commercial delivery and fleet operations
Recognised activity under Dubai commercial registry classifications.
Jurisdiction Analysis: Mainland vs Free Zone
Choosing the right jurisdiction for your logistics & freight in Dubai directly determines your trading flexibility, tax position, and facility requirements:
| Factor | Dubai Mainland | Dubai Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Market Scope | Full unrestricted trade across all 7 UAE emirates and direct bidding on government contracts | Operating inside free zone clusters, international trade, and Mainland trade via local distributors |
| Ownership Structure | 100% foreign ownership available for this sector | 100% foreign ownership guaranteed as standard |
| Corporate Tax | Standard 9% above AED 375,000 profit | 0% on Qualifying Income for QFZP entities |
| Sector Suitability | Best for operating domestic transport fleets, last-mile delivery across the UAE, and leasing warehouses in Al Quoz, Ras Al Khor, or Dubai Investment Park (DIP). | Dubai South or JAFZA is unmatched for international sea-to-air transit cargo, bonded storage, customs duty suspension, and global freight networks. |
PRO Hub Strategic Recommendation:
Choose Dubai South or JAFZA for international transshipment and freight forwarding; choose DED Mainland for domestic fleet distribution and delivery.
How to Set Up Logistics & Freight - Step by Step
PRO Hub provides private corporate advisory, document preparation, and administrative liaison support throughout the setup sequence with DED / DET, municipal departments, and relevant authorities:
Select Logistics Activities
Identify freight forwarding, cargo clearing, warehousing, or road transport activities.
Trade Name & Initial Approval
Reserve your company trade name and secure initial approval from DET or Free Zone Authority.
RTA Approval (For Land Transport)
Secure commercial vehicle and transportation clearances from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) if operating vehicles.
Warehouse or Office Lease
Lease an approved commercial office or warehouse facility with Ejari registration.
License Issuance & Customs Code
Issue the logistics commercial license and register with Dubai Customs for an official importer/exporter and clearing code.
Establishment Cards & Fleet Visas
Register with immigration, obtain MOHRE establishment card, and process investor and driver residency visas.
Regulatory Approvals & Licensing Framework
Official approvals and statutory compliance depend on whether your activity is standard commercial or subject to external ministry clearance.
Competent Authorities & Regulators
DED / Free Zone Authority, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Customs
Note: Statutory government fees, Chamber of Commerce dues, and municipal charges are levied directly by official government entities and may vary based on business activity and legal structure.
Explore Other Dubai Business Types
Looking at alternative business lines or multi-activity licensing in Dubai? Explore other sectors:
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about setting up your business in the UAE.
Ready to Start Your
Business Journey?
Join over 3,000+ successful companies who chose PRO Hub for their UAE empire. Zero hidden costs, 100% transparency.