Thinking about launching a logistics or supply chain business in Dubai? Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone—a key part of Dubai South—and unlock a world of opportunity. Purpose-built to support logistics, freight, aviation, and e-commerce companies, Dubai Logistics City (DLC) offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the region.
Thanks to its strategic location near Al Maktoum International Airport and close to Jebel Ali Port, it provides seamless connectivity by air, sea, and land—a dream setup for any logistics operation. If you’re planning to Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone, here’s everything you need to know in 2025.
Why Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone?
DLC isn’t just another free zone—it’s the region’s largest integrated logistics hub. Businesses that Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone benefit from unmatched infrastructure and direct access to key transport corridors.
Strategic Advantages:
- Adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport
- Part of Dubai South, a 145 sq. km master-planned city
- Direct access to Jebel Ali Port
- Multi-modal transport options: air, road, and sea
- Built specifically for logistics and supply chain businesses
Business Perks:
- 100% foreign ownership
- 0% personal and corporate tax
- 0% customs duties within the Free Zone
- Full repatriation of capital and profits
- No currency restrictions
- Cutting-edge logistics infrastructure
If you’re looking to start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone, these benefits make DLC a top-tier option in the UAE.
Types of Licenses Offered in Dubai Logistics City
To Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone, choose the license that matches your activity:
| License Type | Purpose |
| Logistics License | For freight forwarding, supply chain services, and warehousing |
| Trading (Commercial) License | For import/export, distribution, and general trading |
| Industrial License | For light manufacturing, assembling, and packaging |
| Service License | For professional services like consultancy, IT, and support functions |
| E-Commerce License | For online retail and logistics-focused digital platforms |
Each license can be customized to suit your operational needs. When you Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone, you also gain access to warehouse and office space leasing.
Steps to Start Your Business in DLC
Here’s a simple guide for entrepreneurs ready to Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone:
1. Choose Your Business Activity
Define what kind of services or operations your company will offer e.g., freight forwarding, warehouse logistics, or e-commerce fulfillment.
2. Select a Legal Structure
Options include:
- Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)
- Branch of an existing company (UAE or foreign)
3. Reserve Your Trade Name
Propose 2–3 business names and submit them for approval to ensure they comply with UAE naming rules.
4. Apply for Initial Approval
Submit your business plan and passport copies of shareholders to obtain initial approval from Dubai South Authority.
5. Lease Office or Warehouse Space
Dubai Logistics City offers flexible leasing options:
- Office units
- Shared/flexi desks
- Warehouses and cold storage
- Build-to-suit facilities
6. Submit Final Documents
Complete and notarize all legal documents:
- Passport copies
- Business plan
- NOC (if applicable)
- Lease agreement
7. Pay Fees and Collect License
Once approved, pay the required setup and license fees. You’ll receive your trade license and can begin operations.
Costs Involved in Setting Up
Here’s what it typically costs to Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone:
| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| License Fee | 12,000 – 25,000/year |
| Registration Fee | 5,000 – 10,000 (one-time) |
| Office/Desk Lease | 15,000 – 50,000/year |
| Warehouse Lease | Varies (based on size/location) |
| Visa Cost (per visa) | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Prices may vary depending on space, activity, and the number of visas required.
Visa Options
When you Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone, your setup package often includes employee visa eligibility. Visa limits are based on:
- Office/warehouse size
- Business activity
- Company structure
Each shareholder and employee will need to go through standard medical, Emirates ID, and residence visa procedures.
Best Suited Business Activities
DLC is perfect if you’re looking to Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone in areas such as:
- Freight forwarding and cargo handling
- Warehousing and cold storage
- Last-mile delivery operations
- Aerospace and aviation logistics
- Third-party logistics (3PL)
- E-commerce distribution centers
- Supply chain tech platforms
Advantages Over Other Free Zones
While Dubai has many attractive free zones (JAFZA, DMCC, DAFZA), DLC stands out for businesses in logistics due to:
- Proximity to air and sea ports
- Tailored infrastructure (e.g., cargo terminals, warehouse clusters)
- Connectivity to GCC via road corridors
- Favorable policies for international shipping companies
Challenges to Consider
When planning to Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone, keep in mind:
- Costs may be higher than other free zones for warehouse-heavy businesses
- Limited suitability for non-logistics sectors
- Approval timelines may vary depending on business activity
Conclusion
To Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone is to invest in a future-proof logistics hub. Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling your global operations, DLC offers unmatched advantages in connectivity, infrastructure, and pro-business policies.
With careful planning, you can Start a Business in Dubai Logistics City Free Zone and be fully operational in just a few weeks. Now is the time to tap into Dubai’s booming logistics market—your gateway to the Middle East and beyond.
