Get an Industrial License in Dubai
Manufacturing and industrial companies must obtain an industrial license
to operate in Dubai.
What Is An Industrial License In Dubai?
The Dubai Industrial Trade License is granted to organisations that convert natural resources or modify raw materials to produce new, semi-manufactured, or fully manufactured products.
These activities include production, segregation, accumulation, and packaging. Holding an industrial trade license requires the company to maintain a physical warehouse within the country. For more information about obtaining an industrial license in the UAE, please contact Shuraa Business Setup.
HOW TO GET AN INDUSTRIAL LICENSE IN DUBAI?
Obtaining an industrial license in Dubai is straightforward. Below is a step-by-step summary.
1. Collaborate with a Business Licensing Expert
If you plan to apply for an industrial license in the UAE, begin by engaging a trusted business formation expert, such as Shuraa, to manage the process. This ensures your paperwork is accurate and reduces the stress of starting a company.
2. Secure Administrative Approvals
If you intend to open a factory, you must first obtain approval from the relevant authorities. This step is not required if you operate from an existing location, such as a free economic zone.
3. Submit Your Application for Obtaining an Industrial License
Next, submit your industrial license application. For mainland businesses, contact the DED. For free zone operations, apply through the relevant free zone authority. Shuraa’s advisors can manage your applications for either option.
4. Obtain Additional Approvals
Additional licenses are required before you can operate in the UAE with an industrial license. The relevant authorities include:
- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- The Industrial Register
- The Ministry of Health
A company formation professional can secure these permits for you.
5. Manage Visas
You must obtain a UAE visa before conducting industrial business activities. You can apply for a visa alongside your business license, and Shuraa can manage both applications. You may also sponsor family members for UAE visas.
Permissible Business Activities Under a Dubai Trade License
The following activities are permitted with an industrial license:
- Structural steel, steel workshops, and tools
- Processing of raw materials
- Extraction of petroleum and metals
- Fabric and textile production
- Iron & steel casting
- Manufacturing of appliances and equipment
- Production of bread and other foodstuffs
- Fabrication of paper goods
- Manufacturing of metal casings, containers, boxes, structural steel, and steel workshops
- Manufacturing of coatings, insulations, seals, and protection materials
- Gathering and treatment of waste
- Woodworking, wood goods, and furniture manufacturing
- Paper slitting
- Manufacturing of chinaware and glass industries
- Manufacturing of agricultural equipment and accessories
- Cutting lenses and fixing broken glass
- Gold and precious stone cutting manufacturing
- Manufacturing and maintenance of light aircraft
- Processing of meat
- Production of batteries
- Creating various home appliances
- Assembling air conditioning units
- Manufacturing of advertising and ornamental models
- Petroleum products manufacturing
- Manufacturing of automobiles, motorcycles, and their parts
The UAE government and independent jurisdictions continue to add new business activities to this list.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We look forward to supporting you as you launch your business.
Benefits of Industrial License in the UAE
Obtain your industrial trade license through Shuraa Business Setup and benefit from the following advantages:
- Receive a preliminary analysis before submitting your industrial license application.
- Access business opportunities from reliable and trusted sources.
- Ensure secure revenue transactions with legal support when necessary.
- Attract additional investors and customers with an industrial license.
- Gain access to a global business community and modern industrial infrastructure.
- Benefit from advanced telecommunications and a robust e-governance system.
- Leverage sophisticated financial services and a strong service sector.
To determine if your business requires an industrial license or to learn more about the Industrial Trade License in Dubai or the UAE, contact Shuraa Business Setup.
Industrial License Cost in Dubai
Your firm’s location affects the total cost. You should also account for permits and certifications required for your specific manufacturing sector in the UAE.
The estimated cost for an industrial license in Dubai is approximately AED 25,000*, though this may vary with updated pricing guidelines. Establishing your business in a free zone is often more cost-effective due to lower setup fees and expenses.
Alternatively, a mainland establishment provides direct access to Dubai’s local market and allows free trade throughout the UAE.
Required Documentation for Obtaining an Industrial License in Dubai
Below is a summary of the documents required to obtain an industrial license:
- Copy of passport and residence visa for non-citizens; summary of registration for citizens
- Feasibility study
- Partnership contract, if applicable; copy of the trade license
- Copy of balance sheet
- National Media Council approval
- Ministry of Health approval
- Approval from the Ministry of Environment and Water
- Ministry of Interior approval
Contact Shuraa for professional support with your industrial business setup.
Obtaining a license for an industrial or manufacturing business is more complex than starting a small corporation. Tasks such as securing a location, choosing a legal structure, opening bank accounts, and ensuring compliance with UAE and Dubai regulations require significant time and attention.
Many business owners in Dubai find the setup process challenging and stressful.
We are here to support you at every stage of the process.
Consider partnering with an experienced business consultancy to manage paperwork, details, and complex tasks on your behalf.
There are many factors to consider when starting a business, including the application process for an industrial license in Dubai. Shuraa’s experienced advisors are ready to assist you.

