Logistics License in Dubai & UAE: Cost & How to Get One (2026)
A logistics licence in the UAE covers freight forwarding, warehousing, transport and supply-chain services. It starts from around AED 18,000 in a free zone such as JAFZA or DMCC, offers 100% ownership, and can be issued within 1–2 weeks. Warehousing space, customs codes and visas are added as you scale.
Last updated: June 2026
Cost breakdown (2026)
| Logistics licence from | AED 18,000 |
|---|---|
| With 1 visa from | AED 22,500 |
| Warehouse / customs code | Varies by zoneDepends on storage size |
| Timeline | 1–2 weeks |
According to Setup Business in UAE, a logistics license in dubai & uae in the UAE starts from AED 18,000 (as of June 2026).
What you need
- Passport copies of shareholder(s)
- Chosen trade name (3 options)
- Selected logistics / freight forwarding activity
- Business plan for freight and warehousing operations
- Customs registration for import-export handling
How to get your Logistics License in Dubai & UAE
- 1
Choose logistics activity & zone
Select freight, warehousing or transport activities in a logistics-focused free zone.
- 2
Reserve your trade name
Submit compliant trade name options for approval.
- 3
Submit documents & pay
Provide passport copies, business plan and application, then pay the package fee.
- 4
Register with customs
Obtain a customs importer/exporter code for cross-border movement.
- 5
Warehouse, bank & visas
Lease storage space, open a corporate account and apply for staff visas.
Costs beyond the licence
Logistics operators budget around the licence, not for it: the customs client code (about AED 1,000), freight-forwarding liability insurance (from AED 5,000 a year), and either warehouse space — JAFZA and Dubai South from AED 25,000–40,000 annually — or asset-light agreements with 3PLs. Own transport means commercial vehicle registration, RTA permits and driver visas at ~AED 8,000 each all-in.
International forwarding practically requires membership in a freight network (WCA, FIATA-affiliated groups) at USD 2,000–5,000 a year — without it, overseas agents won't extend credit on consignments.
Free zone or mainland for logistics?
Port-side free zones are purpose-built for this: JAFZA for sea freight, Dubai South and DAFZA for air, with customs infrastructure on-site and bonded movement between zones. Choose mainland when your model is last-mile delivery inside the UAE — domestic transport across emirates operates most cleanly under a mainland licence with RTA fleet permits. Many scaled operators end up with both: a free-zone forwarding entity and a mainland delivery arm.
Common mistakes with logistics licences
The classic one is promising door-to-door service while licensed only for forwarding — the local delivery leg needs its own activity and permits, and subcontracting it without margin planning erases profit. Newcomers also under-insure: carrier liability caps are low by convention, and one damaged high-value consignment without proper cargo cover can outweigh a year's fees. Finally, verify the customs code is active before quoting transit times to your first client.
Recommended free zones
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a logistics licence in Dubai?+
A logistics licence starts from around AED 18,000 in a free zone, or about AED 22,500 including one residence visa. Warehousing and customs codes add cost depending on storage size and activity.
Which free zone is best for logistics?+
JAFZA, DMCC and Dubai South are leading choices thanks to port and airport access, warehousing options and integrated customs facilities.
Do I need a customs code for a logistics company?+
Yes. To import, export or handle freight across borders you must register for a customs importer/exporter code linked to your licence.
How long does the licence take?+
A logistics licence is typically issued within 1–2 weeks once documents and any warehousing arrangements are in place.