Dubai Logistics City Company Setup

Dubai Logistics City (DLC) is a purpose-built Free Zone within Dubai South. Designed as a fully integrated, multi-modal logistics hub, it connects air, sea, and land transport in one seamless ecosystem. This integration helps businesses move goods rapidly and efficiently, making it a strong choice for companies planning a business setup in UAE.

Located next to Al Maktoum International Airport and linked to Jebel Ali Port, DLC enables seamless cargo movement through dedicated bonded corridors. The Free Zone spans over 25 sq. km and supports supply chain operations like warehousing and global distribution.

DLC plays a major role in Dubai’s logistics growth. It is built to handle up to 12 million tonnes of cargo annually, making it one of the advanced multi-modal logistics Free Zones. As part of Dubai South, DLC operates within a larger ecosystem of over 4,200 companies, hosting giants like DHL and 170+ logistics and freight firms.

Setting up a business in Dubai Logistics City offers strong advantages for companies involved in logistics, e-commerce, and supply chain operations. Some major benefits of company formation in DLC are:

• 100% Foreign Ownership: Investors can fully own their business without requiring a local sponsor. This gives complete control over operations, revenue, and strategic decisions.
• Multi-Modal Connectivity: Located within Dubai South, the Free Zone connects directly to Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port. Businesses benefit from seamless integration of air, sea, and land transport. This connectivity reduces transit time and improves supply chain efficiency.
• Logistics-Focused Ecosystem: Dubai Logistics City is purpose-built for freight, warehousing, and distribution. Companies operate alongside global logistics providers, freight forwarders, and e-commerce players, creating strong collaboration and faster service delivery.
• Tax Efficiency: Businesses enjoy 0% personal income tax and 0% corporate tax on qualifying income under Free Zone regulations. A 9% corporate tax applies only to non-qualifying income, helping companies maintain tax efficiency while staying compliant.
• Full Repatriation of Profits: Investors can transfer 100% of their profits and capital abroad without restrictions. This allows smooth international financial management and improves liquidity planning.
• Advanced Infrastructure: The Free Zone offers high-quality warehousing, fulfillment centers, cold storage facilities, and industrial spaces. Many facilities include automation and smart logistics systems, supporting high-volume and time-sensitive operations.
• Proximity to Global Markets: Dubai’s location allows businesses to access markets across Asia, Europe, and Africa within a few hours. This strategic positioning supports faster distribution and global trade expansion.
• Scalable Warehousing Solutions: Companies can choose from flexible storage options, including multi-user warehouses and large-scale logistics parks. These options make it easier to scale operations as demand grows without major infrastructure changes.
• Fast and Streamlined Setup: The Free Zone provides a simplified registration and licensing process with minimal documentation. This makes business setup in Dubai faster and helps companies avoid unnecessary delays.
• E-commerce and Trade Enablement: DLC offers dedicated zones and infrastructure for e-commerce businesses. It supports fulfillment, last-mile delivery, and cross-border trade, making it ideal for modern digital supply chains.

These benefits make Dubai Logistics City a preferred choice for businesses seeking global connectivity and a future-ready environment for business setup in Dubai Free Zone.

Dubai Logistics City offers flexible company structures to suit startups, logistics firms, trading businesses, and multinational corporations. These are:

1. Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): This is the most widely used structure for setting up in Dubai Logistics City. It allows one or more shareholders, including individuals or corporate entities, and provides limited liability protection along with 100% foreign ownership. Most logistics, trading, and e-commerce businesses prefer this model for its flexibility and scalability.
2. Branch of a Foreign Company: International businesses can establish a branch in Dubai Logistics City without forming a separate legal entity. The branch operates under the parent company’s name and conducts the same business activities. This option suits global logistics and supply chain companies expanding into the UAE market.
3. Branch of a UAE Company: Companies already registered in the UAE can open a branch within Dubai South to expand their operations. The branch can carry out activities similar to the parent company and benefit from the zone’s advanced logistics infrastructure and connectivity.
4. Freelancer / Sole Establishment Permit: Individual professionals can set up a business under their own name through a sole establishment or freelancer permit. This structure is ideal for consultants and service providers who want a cost-effective setup without forming a full company.

These diverse business structures make the Free Zone ideal for businesses exploring company formation in Dubai.

Dubai Logistics City supports a wide range of business activities focused on logistics, trade, and supply chain operations. Some of the key business activities allowed in the Free Zone are:

• Logistics and Freight Services: Covers freight forwarding, cargo handling, third-party logistics (3PL), supply chain management, and distribution services. Businesses benefit from direct connectivity within DLC, enabling faster movement of goods.
• Warehousing and Storage Activities: Includes general warehousing, cold storage, bonded storage, and inventory management. Companies can store, manage, and redistribute goods efficiently using advanced logistics infrastructure.
• Import, Export, and Re-Export: Allows businesses to trade goods across international markets. Companies can import products into the UAE, store them in the Free Zone, and re-export them without customs complications.
• E-commerce and Fulfillment Services: Supports online businesses with warehousing, order processing, packaging, and last-mile delivery solutions. This is ideal for e-commerce companies operating across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
• Light Manufacturing and Assembly: Permits activities such as packaging, labeling, sorting, and product assembly. Businesses can add value to goods before distribution without setting up heavy industrial operations.
• Trading and Distribution: Enables wholesale trading and regional distribution of goods across multiple sectors. Companies can manage large-scale supply chains from a central logistics hub.
• Supply Chain Consultancy and Support Services: Covers logistics consulting, operations management, and supply chain optimization services for businesses looking to improve efficiency.
• Packaging and Processing Services: Involves repackaging, labeling, and quality checks before goods are shipped to final destinations. This supports compliance with international trade standards.

These activities align closely with the broader list of business activities in Dubai, giving entrepreneurs the flexibility to choose and scale operations efficiently.

If you are an international investor exploring company formation in Dubai, read our guide on how to register a business in Dubai as a foreigner.

Dubai Logistics City offers a range of license types tailored to different business activities. The table below provides a clear overview of business licenses in Dubai:

These Dubai Free Zone License options allow businesses to benefit from the advanced infrastructure of Dubai Logistics City.

Setting up a company in Dubai Logistics City requires submitting certain documents to the Dubai South (formerly known as Dubai World Central) authority for approval and licensing.

Essential Documents

These are the basic documents required for most company setups, regardless of business activity or structure.

• Passport Copies of Shareholders and Directors: Clear copies of valid passports for all individuals involved in the company.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent photographs as per UAE visa specifications.
• Visa and Entry Stamp Copies (if applicable): Required for individuals already present in the UAE.
• Emirates ID Copy (if applicable): Mandatory for UAE residents participating in the company setup.
• Proposed Company Names: A list of preferred names for approval, following UAE naming guidelines.
• Business Activity Details: A clear outline of your intended operations to determine the appropriate license.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA): Defines ownership structure, roles, and company activities (mainly for FZ-LLCs).
• Specimen Signature Form: Signatures of shareholders and managers for official records.
• PoA (if applicable): A Power of Attorney (PoA) is required if a representative is handling the incorporation process.

Additional Documents (As Applicable)

Authorities may require these documents based on your business activity, shareholder type, or regulatory approvals.

• Board Resolution (for Corporate Shareholders): Authorizes the formation of the new entity and appoints a representative.
• COI (for Corporate Shareholders): A Certificate of Incorporation (COI) serves as proof of the parent company’s legal existence.
• NOC: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) is needed if a shareholder is employed in the UAE under another sponsor.
• Lease Agreement / Facility Contract: Proof of office, warehouse, or industrial space within the Free Zone.
• UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) Declaration: Disclosure of the actual owners of the business as per UAE compliance requirements.
• KYC (Know Your Customer) Forms: Background and identity details of shareholders and directors.
• Bank Reference Letter: May be required to establish financial credibility.
• Audited Financial Statements (for Corporate Shareholders): Recent financial records of the parent company, if applicable.
• Attested Legal Documents: Foreign company documents may need online notarization and attestation.
• External Approvals: Required for regulated sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, or aviation-related activities.
• Customs Registration: Needed for businesses involved in import, export, and re-export activities.
• Environmental or Safety Approvals: Applicable for industrial, warehousing, or large-scale logistics operations.

For expert assistance with document preparation, refer to the list of business setup consultants in Dubai.

Note: The exact list of documents required for company formation in DLC depends on your business activity, license type, and shareholder structure.

Setting up a company in Dubai Logistics City involves a structured process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and compliant registration:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

Start by identifying the exact activities your business will carry out.

• Define your core and supporting operations.
• Ensure alignment with the approved activity list in Dubai Logistics City.
• Check if your activity requires external approvals (e.g., food, aviation, pharmaceuticals).

Plan for future expansion to avoid amendments later

Estimated Timeline: 1–2 days

Step 2: Select the Right Company Structure

Choose a structure that aligns with your ownership and operational goals.

• Decide between FZ-LLC, a branch of a foreign/UAE company, or a freelancer setup.
• Finalize shareholders and ownership structure.
• Evaluate liability, control, and scalability.
• Match the structure with your business activity.

Estimated Timeline: 1–2 days

Step 3: Reserve Your Company Name

Select and secure a unique business name.

• Prepare 2–3 name options.
• Follow UAE naming guidelines and avoid restricted terms.
• Ensure the name is not already registered.

Submit for approval through the Dubai South authority.

Estimated Timeline: 1–3 days

Step 4: Submit Application and Documents

Complete the formal registration process.

• Fill out the application form.
• Submit shareholder and company documents.
• Provide business activity details and, if required, a business plan.

Ensure documents are clear and attested where necessary.

Estimated Timeline: 3–5 working days

Step 5: Obtain Initial Approval

Authorities review your application.

• The Dubai South Authority evaluates your business activity and structure.
• They may request clarifications or additional documents.
• Receive initial approval to proceed.

Estimated Timeline: 3–7 working days

Step 6: Lease Office or Logistics Facility

Secure your physical presence in the Free Zone.

• Choose from a virtual office, warehouse, private office, flexi-desk, or logistics unit.
• Select based on your operational and visa requirements.
• Sign the lease agreement and obtain tenancy confirmation.

Estimated Timeline: 2–5 days

Note: Ejari Registration is generally required for mainland companies in Dubai and does not typically apply to Free Zone setups like Dubai Logistics City.

Step 7: Pay Fees and Obtain License

Finalize the setup and receive your business license.

• Pay registration, licensing, and facility fees.
• Receive your trade license in Dubai.
• Collect the business registration certificate, which serves as proof of incorporation.

Your company is now legally authorized to operate.

Estimated Timeline: 2–3 days

Note: To legally protect your brand in the UAE, you can also apply for trademark registration.

Step 8: Process Visas and Immigration

• Apply for visa and an establishment card for investors and employees.
• Complete medical tests and Emirates ID registration.
• Finalize visa stamping.

Estimated Timeline: 5–10 working days

Step 9: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Set up your business banking.

• Choose a UAE bank and submit your company documents.
• Complete KYC details and meet compliance requirements to open your business bank account.

Estimated Timeline: 1–3 weeks

Looking for a smooth and seamless company formation in Dubai Logistics City? Let SafeLedger guide you through every step, from preparing documents to final trade license issuance. Contact us today to make your UAE business setup fast, secure, and stress-free!

The cost of setting up a business in Dubai Logistics City ranges from AED 40,000 to AED 100,000+. This range reflects the overall business setup cost in Dubai for logistics-focused Free Zone companies.

Below is an approximate cost breakdown:

Note: These costs can vary significantly based on your business activity, number of visas, and infrastructure needs. For a precise and personalized quote, contact experts like SafeLedger.

For a more detailed breakdown, check business setup costs in Dubai Free Zone.

Setting up a company in Dubai Logistics City can be complex, but SafeLedger makes the process smooth and efficient. Here’s why businesses trust us:

• Expert Guidance: Our team helps you choose the right company structure, license type, and business activity based on your industry, whether it’s logistics, trading, or e-commerce.
• Fast-Track Approvals: We coordinate with Free Zone authorities to submit applications and secure approvals quickly, minimizing delays.
• End-to-End Assistance: From trade name reservation and documentation to facility leasing and final license issuance, we manage the entire setup process for you.
• Customized Solutions: Whether you are a startup, SME, or global logistics company, we tailor our services to match your operational needs and growth plans.
• Compliance & Ongoing Support: Our experts help with license renewals, regulatory updates, and ongoing compliance to keep your business running smoothly.

With SafeLedger, your Dubai Logistics City company formation becomes faster, simpler, and fully compliant.