How to Start a Logistics Company in Free Zone, Dubai, UAE
                     How to Start a 
Logistics Company in 
Free Zone, Dubai, UAE
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Last year’s pandemic revealed several flaws in the global logistics 
industry, as well as having serious consequences. The UAE, on the 
other hand, is one of the few countries to have emerged from the 
bad situation as soon as possible. It is the only country that has 
experienced sustained growth in the logistics industry following 
the pandemic. UAE acknowledges that the virus was present, is 
present, and will remain, but it must stabilise its logistics industry 
regardless, and in this regard, UAE has performed admirably thus 
far. We believe that there has never been a better time to start a 
logistics company in Free Zone, Dubai, UAE.
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Important information to consider before 
establishing a logistics company in Dubai, 
UAE:
Given the perks and benefits, there is no better place for a logistics 
business on a global scale. However, there are a few things you 
should be certain of before establishing a logistics business setup in 
UAE:
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Customs, documentation, and paperwork 
processes:
You must be aware of all customs procedures, paperwork, and 
documentation requirements. Before entering the logistics industry, 
you should be well-versed in customs and the clearance process.
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In-person meeting with your client:
A one-on-one meeting with a logistics supplier is extremely 
beneficial because it ensures clear communication between all 
involved parties and reduces the likelihood of any mishaps. Credit 
terms with a signed agreement are also essential. This makes it 
easier to resolve any future conflicts.
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Understanding the logistics market: 
The logistics market in Dubai is quite fragmented, with many 
suppliers spread across the UAE. This means that hiring an 
experienced company is the best option. It will help you save 
money, avoid clearance failures, and are usually well-versed in all 
customs rules.
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Logistics in Dubai is certain to thrive, thanks to the presence of 
some of the world’s busiest seaports and airports. It also has 
excellent road connections to the neighbouring Emirates and 
countries surrounding the UAE. So, whether you want to start a 
logistics business to sell locally, internationally, or domestically, you 
can do so.
Setting up a logistics business in Dubai has certain advantages, 
such as tax benefits, where businesses pay extremely low taxes.
This business has no minimum capital requirement, no currency 
restrictions, and no visa restrictions.
Dubai provides a free cargo and freight connection, as well as free-
zone benefits, which boosts additional business activities and 
opportunities.
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Dubai’s four major logistics 
business hubs are:
Dubai South Free Zone: 
Established in 2006 by the government of Dubai, the Dubai South 
Free Zone provides world-class infrastructure as well as exceptional 
government support. The Dubai South Free Zone is 145 square 
kilometres in size and is located near Al Maktoum Airport. This free 
zone is well-planned, with high-tech warehousing and easy access 
to downtown Dubai. The government has made additional 
investments in light of the free zone’s prospects as it emerges as a 
highly flourishing zone of Dubai. This is currently the most popular 
jurisdiction for logistics firms in the UAE.
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Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA):
Another popular location for a logistics business setup in Dubai is 
the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA). Dubai airport is one of the 
busiest in the world, with a trading route to Europe and connected 
geographies, providing significant benefits to companies formed in 
DAFZA. DAFZA is home to over 1800 businesses and 15000+ 
professionals. Some of the world’s largest logistic conglomerates 
have their headquarters here.
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Jebel Ali Free Zone (JFZA):
The Jebel Ali Free Zone (JFZA) was founded in 1985. It currently has 
over 8000 entities operating in the jurisdiction, making it one of the 
top free zone jurisdictions in Dubai. JAFZA receives approximately 
24 percent of Dubai’s FDI.
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Dubai Logistics City (DLC):
Dubai Logistics City (DLC), also known as Dubai World Central, is the 
world’s first platform designed to promote logistics and trade 
facilities in the United Arab Emirates. It has a total area of 140 
square kilometres. This free zone is Dubai’s largest and most 
ambitious government project. The DLC’s companies are spread 
across a large area, with an annual air cargo turnover of nearly 12 
million tonnes.
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Transportation of Cargo:
Air Cargo Transportation: Air cargo transportation can include air 
freight, airport packing and sorting, air fleet management (including 
leasing and freight forwarding), and freight forwarding.
Sea Cargo Transportation: Sea cargo transportation includes 
containers, RORO, and bulk sea freight, packing and sorting at 
seaports, and vessel and container leasing.
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Land Cargo Transportation: Overland freight by road and rail, 
shipment expediting, and dispatch support for groupage cargo.
Third-party logistics, also known as 3PL: 3P applies to any service 
contract involving commodity storage and shipping. This includes 
client warehousing and transportation services. A 3PL company may 
provide a single service such as warehousing, transportation, or 
inventory management. They may, however, provide system-wide 
bundling of services and management of a client’s entire supply 
chain.
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Contact Us
Dubai South
Address: Dubai South Headquarters:
P.O. Box 282228,
https://www.dubaisouth.ae/  
Dubai South, UAE
Contacts:
Within UAE (toll free): 800-SOUTH / 800-76884
International: +971-800-76884
Email: [email protected]
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