Industrial License in UAE | Start a Manufacturing or Production Business in Dubai
Introduction
The UAE has rapidly become a leading destination for Industrial License in UAE | Start a Manufacturing or Production Business in Dubai thanks to its strong infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and world-class logistics network. If your company is involved in producing, assembling, or processing goods, you will need an Industrial License. This license allows businesses to manufacture, package, and export goods legally within the UAE and abroad. Let’s explore everything about the Industrial License in Dubai, including the detailed activities, requirements, benefits, and setup process.
What Is an Industrial License in Dubai, UAE?
An Industrial License is issued to companies involved in manufacturing, processing, assembling, packaging, or industrial production activities. This license is granted by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED) for mainland companies or by free zone authorities such as JAFZA, RAKEZ, DAFZA, and Dubai Industrial City for free zone setups. It’s essential for any business that uses machinery, equipment, or manual labor to transform raw materials into finished or semi-finished products.
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Key Features of an Industrial License
- Legal authorization for manufacturing and industrial operations
- Permission to import raw materials and export finished goods
- Access to industrial land and warehouses
- Eligibility for manufacturing incentives and tax benefits
- Ability to sponsor employee and investor visas
- Available in mainland and free zones
🏭 Who Needs an Industrial License?
The Industrial License is required for companies engaged in:
- Manufacturing consumer or industrial goods
- Assembling machinery and equipment
- Food and beverage production
- Textile and clothing factories
- Chemical or metal processing
- Packaging and bottling operations
Major Activities Covered Under the Industrial License
Below are the main categories of industrial activities allowed under this license, along with examples and scope of each:
Manufacturing and Production
This is the core activity under the Industrial License. It involves creating new products using machinery or manual assembly.
Explanation:
These businesses use raw materials or semi-finished inputs to produce ready-to-use products. Industrial facilities typically operate in designated industrial areas such as Al Quoz, Jebel Ali, or Dubai Industrial City.
Food and Beverage Processing
Covers the preparation, packaging, and manufacturing of food and beverage items.
Explanation:
These businesses are regulated by the Dubai Municipality and Food Safety Department. They must comply with hygiene, health, and labeling standards before licensing approval.
Textile and Garment Manufacturing
Involves producing fabrics, apparel, or textiles for commercial use.
Explanation:
Ideal for fashion brands and fabric suppliers. The UAE’s free zones such as RAKEZ and Sharjah Textile City are known for supporting textile businesses.
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Production
Covers the manufacturing of chemical products and medical items.
Explanation:
These industries require special approvals from Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Health, or Environment and Safety departments due to handling of sensitive materials.
Building Material and Construction Product Manufacturing
For companies making or processing materials used in construction.
Explanation:
Dubai’s booming construction industry makes this one of the most profitable industrial sectors. Many such companies operate in Dubai Industrial City or Sharjah Industrial Area.
Metal Fabrication and Machinery Assembly
Involves producing and assembling heavy machinery, tools, or metal products.
Explanation:
These businesses often operate under high safety and quality standards and are supervised by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT).
Plastic and Rubber Product Manufacturing
Involves converting polymers or rubber into usable products.
Explanation:
These businesses are essential for supporting retail, FMCG, and logistics companies operating in Dubai.
Oil, Gas, and Petrochemical Processing
For industries refining or processing hydrocarbons and by-products.
Explanation:
This category requires high-level government approvals and is usually restricted to licensed industrial zones.
Printing, Packaging, and Paper Production
Covers packaging, printing, and paper-based manufacturing.
Explanation:
These businesses are essential for supporting retail, FMCG, and logistics companies operating in Dubai.
Recycling and Environmental Industries
Involves processing waste materials into reusable resources.
Explanation:
Sustainability is a UAE priority, and recycling-based companies often qualify for government incentives and eco-certifications.
Benefits of Getting an Industrial License in Dubai
✅ Legal manufacturing authorization
✅ Import and export privileges
✅ Access to affordable industrial land
✅ 100% ownership in free zones
✅ Tax exemptions and incentives
✅ Global logistics connectivity
✅ Government support for sustainability and innovation
Documents Required for an Industrial License
- Passport copies of shareholders and partners
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval from DED or Free Zone Authority
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Project feasibility study
- Lease agreement for factory/warehouse
- Approval from environmental and civil defense authorities
How to Apply for an Industrial License in Dubai (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Choose your industrial activity (e.g., manufacturing, packaging, or assembly).
Step 2: Select your business jurisdiction — Mainland or Free Zone.
Step 3: Reserve your trade name and apply for initial approval.
Step 4: Prepare a feasibility report and layout of your facility.
Step 5: Obtain necessary approvals (Dubai Municipality, MOIAT, Civil Defense).
Step 6: Lease or purchase an industrial space.
Step 7: Submit final documents and pay the licensing fee.
Step 8: Receive your Industrial License and start operations.
Cost of an Industrial License in the UAE
The total cost depends on your industrial activity, location, and factory size.
Typical ranges are:
- Mainland: AED 15,000 – 50,000
- Free Zone: AED 20,000 – 40,000 (including warehouse space and visa quota)
HT360 offers tailored industrial business setup packages, covering license, approvals, and leasing support.
Mainland vs Free Zone Industrial License
| Feature | Mainland License | Free Zone License |
| Ownership | Up to 100% foreign ownership | 100% foreign ownership |
| Trade Access | Local + international | Primarily international |
| Office Requirement | Factory or warehouse mandatory | Included in most packages |
| Regulatory Body | Dubai DED + MOIAT | Free Zone Authority |
| Ideal For | Large-scale local production | Export-focused manufacturing |
HT360 – Your Trusted Partner for Industrial License Setup
Follow these steps to select the ideal trade license for your business:
HT360 Business Setup offers complete support for your Industrial License in Dubai and UAE, including:
- Industrial feasibility studies
- Document preparation and approvals
- Factory and warehouse leasing
- Ministry and municipality coordination
- Customs and import/export code registration
FAQ’s
1. What is an Industrial License in Dubai?
It’s a business permit for companies engaged in manufacturing, assembling, or processing goods in the UAE.
2. Who issues Industrial Licenses in the UAE?
Licenses are issued by the Dubai DED (mainland) or Free Zone Authorities like JAFZA, RAKEZ, and DAFZA.
3. How long does it take to get an Industrial License?
Usually between 10–15 working days, depending on required approvals.
4. Can foreigners own 100% of an industrial business?
Yes, full foreign ownership is allowed in UAE free zones and selected mainland sectors.
5. What is the cost of an Industrial License?
Between AED 15,000 and AED 50,000, depending on the location and activity.
6. Is a warehouse mandatory for an Industrial License?
Yes, having an industrial facility or warehouse is mandatory.
7. Can I import raw materials under this license?
Yes, it allows full import and export privileges.
8. Do I need environmental approval?
Yes, especially for manufacturing sectors involving chemicals, waste, or emissions.
9. Can I get an Industrial License in a Free Zone?
Yes, zones like RAKEZ, JAFZA, and KIZAD offer industrial setups with 100% ownership.
10. Why choose HT360 for an Industrial License?
HT360 provides complete setup solutions, including factory leasing, government approvals, and documentation — making your setup stress-free.