An Industrial License in the UAE allows businesses to manufacture, process, assemble, and package products on a commercial scale.
No matter if you’re building automotive parts, bottling beverages, or assembling electronics, this license legally enables you to operate a production-based business in the UAE.
Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland operations or by various Free Zone Authorities, the industrial license is a must for entities involved in any physical transformation of goods.
Unlike commercial or professional licenses that cater to trade or services, an industrial license focuses strictly on industrial activities and requires physical infrastructure, including a warehouse or production facility.
A manufacturing license doesn’t just grant legal status, it offers serious operational advantages for growth-oriented companies.
Key Benefits:
Any business that transforms raw materials into finished or semi-finished products is required to hold an industrial license.
Examples of Eligible Activities:
Important: The company must operate a physical facility—virtual operations are not eligible for an industrial license.
Document | Description |
Passport copies | Of all shareholders and managers |
Visa copies (if applicable) | Required for UAE residents or employees |
Emirates ID | For UAE residents |
Trade name reservation certificate | From DED or Free Zone Authority |
Initial approval certificate | Confirming eligibility for industrial activity |
Lease agreement | For the factory or warehouse premises |
Technical drawings (if required) | Floor plan, fire exits, ventilation for manufacturing units |
Environmental clearance | For relevant industrial activities (chemicals, food, etc.) |
Business plan | Production, staffing, logistics, waste disposal strategy |
Cost Component | Estimated Cost (AED) | Details |
Trade Name Reservation | 600 – 1,000 | One-time fee during name approval |
Initial Approval Certificate | 1,000 – 1,500 | Pre-approval from DED or Free Zone |
Industrial License Issuance Fee | 10,000 – 15,000 | Varies by location and business activity |
Industrial Facility Lease | 20,000 – 60,000+ | Warehouse or factory space, location-dependent |
Environment & Municipality Approvals | 3,000 – 7,000 | Depends on nature of industrial activity |
Immigration Card & Establishment Setup | 1,000 – 2,000 | Mandatory for visa and labor card issuance |
Total Estimated Cost: AED 35,000 – 90,000+ depending on setup complexity and licensing authority.
Begin by identifying exactly what you plan to manufacture, assemble, or process. Your selected activity must align with the approved list from the DED or relevant Free Zone. Activities like food production, metal fabrication, or chemical processing may need additional sector-specific approvals.
Decide where you want to set up: Mainland or Free Zone. Mainland allows broader access to UAE markets and public contracts. Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership, tax benefits, and simplified logistics—ideal for export-focused businesses. Consider your expansion goals and client base when choosing.
Select a trade name that reflects your business and meets UAE naming rules. Submit it to the authority for approval. Avoid abbreviations, religious references, or duplicate names. Once approved, you’ll receive a trade name certificate valid for a limited time.
Apply for initial approval by submitting your chosen activity, trade name, and shareholder documents. This is a no-objection confirmation that permits you to move forward with leasing, legal documents, and regulatory compliance steps.
Lease or purchase a warehouse, factory, or industrial unit that suits your operations. The facility must be in a designated industrial zone and comply with local building, safety, and zoning standards. This step is essential for license approval.
Depending on your activity, you may need approvals from the Municipality, Civil Defense, or Environment Department.Submit technical documents like facility layout, ventilation, and safety systems for review before final licensing.
Prepare your Memorandum of Association (MoA) outlining business structure and ownership. Mainland setups often require notary public approvals. In Free Zones, a detailed business plan may also be needed to justify your production capacity and resources.
Once everything is in place—documents, approvals, lease—you can submit your final license application. After document verification and payment of fees, your industrial license will be issued, and you can begin operations legally.
Begin by reviewing your license’s expiration date. Ideally, start the renewal process 2–4 weeks in advance to avoid penalties or service interruptions.
Your license is tied to your industrial premises. Ensure your warehouse or factory lease is renewed. Mainland companies must also update their Ejari certificate with the Dubai Land Department.
Depending on your activity, renew any required environmental, municipal, or safety approvals, such as fire safety clearance from Civil Defense or environmental permits from local authorities.
Gather key documents:
Submit your renewal request through the DED system or relevant Free Zone portal. Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.
Settle the license renewal fee, immigration charges, and any service or PRO fees. Charges vary by jurisdiction and business size.
Once approved, you’ll receive your updated license certificate, valid for another year. Your company’s records will be updated across government portals.
Setting up an industrial business in the UAE opens doors to one of the region’s most growing and logistics-ready economies.
No matter if you’re launching a new production line, relocating from overseas, or scaling up a growing manufacturing operation, an industrial license offers the legal and operational framework to do it right.
By understanding your options Mainland vs. Free Zone and planning for the right approvals and costs, you can streamline your entry into the UAE’s industrial sector.
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