An industrial licence in Dubai authorises businesses to manufacture, process, assemble, and package products from raw materials. It differs from commercial licences (trading) and professional licences (services) by permitting physical transformation of goods. Costs range from 12,500 in DUQE Free Zone to 35,000+ on the mainland, with setup times spanning 3 days to 3 months depending on jurisdiction.
Dubai’s industrial sector has grown from 133 billion to 210 billion in three years-57% growth that outpaces most global manufacturing hubs. Yet licensing decisions still trip up entrepreneurs. The choice between free zone and mainland determines ownership structure, tax treatment, market access, and operational costs. Select the wrong route and you either overpay for infrastructure you don’t need or find yourself without the facilities your operations require.
This article covers the legal framework, costs, application processes, and decision criteria-with particular focus on DUQE Free Zone as the lowest-cost option for businesses needing industrial classification without dedicated manufacturing facilities.
What Is an Industrial Licence in Dubai?
An industrial licence permits manufacturing, processing, assembly, packaging, and related production activities. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 25 of 2022 on the Regulation and Development of Industry, an industrial establishment is defined as any entity whose primary purpose involves transforming raw materials into manufactured products-including mixing, separating, forming, assembling, and packaging operations.
This law replaced the 1979 industrial regulation, modernising licensing procedures and enhancing foreign investment support. Industrial activities are now clearly distinguished from trading or service provision, with specific compliance requirements for production-based operations.
For businesses conducting actual manufacturing with dedicated facilities, a physical premises requirement applies-virtual offices are not permitted for production operations. However, businesses needing industrial classification for import/export purposes or regulatory compliance while outsourcing actual production can satisfy requirements through appropriate free zone structures.
Who Issues Industrial Licences in Dubai
Dubai operates a dual licensing system:
Free Zone Authorities issue licences for businesses within their jurisdictions, each with independent regulatory frameworks and fee structures. DUQE, for example, operates under the Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation (PCFC).
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) issues mainland licences, which carry different ownership rules and grant direct UAE market access without intermediaries.
All industrial establishments must also register with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) at federal level. This registration ensures compliance with national standards and unlocks access to government support programmes-including the 30 billion Emirates Development Bank allocation for industrial financing.
Industrial Activities Covered
Industrial licences span production activities including: food and beverage processing, textile and garment manufacturing, metal fabrication and machinery, pharmaceutical production, electronics assembly, plastics and chemicals, building materials, printing and packaging, and light assembly operations.
Specific activity lists vary by licensing authority. DUQE, DET, and other free zones each maintain their own approved classifications, though most standard manufacturing activities are available across jurisdictions.
Free Zone Industrial Licences in Dubai
Dubai’s free zones operate as special economic areas with independent regulatory frameworks. For internationally-focused businesses, they offer compelling advantages over mainland licensing.
Benefits of a Free Zone Industrial Licence
100% foreign ownership is guaranteed across all Dubai free zones, eliminating the historical local partnership requirement that applied to mainland businesses until 2021. International investors maintain complete control over operations and strategic decisions without sharing equity.
Zero corporate tax applies to qualifying free zone income under the UAE’s 2023 tax framework. Businesses meeting qualifying conditions benefit from 0% versus the standard 9% rate that applies above 375,000. This represents substantial savings for profitable operations-a company with 1 million taxable income saves 56,250 annually.
Customs duty exemptions on raw materials and machinery reduce input costs significantly. Goods imported into free zones for processing or re-export avoid the standard 5% import duty, improving manufacturing margins.
Full profit and capital repatriation permits unrestricted transfer of earnings and invested capital out of the UAE, providing financial flexibility for international operations and parent company funding.
Streamlined digital processes enable setup in days rather than months. Many free zones offer end-to-end online incorporation-DUQE, for instance, issues licences within 1–3 business days.
No currency restrictions allow businesses to operate in any currency and maintain multi-currency accounts for international trade.
Free Zone Limitations
Free zone licences restrict direct business with UAE mainland customers. Companies wishing to sell products or services domestically must:
- Use local distributors (adding margin and reducing control)
- Establish separate mainland branches (adding cost and administrative complexity)
- Obtain the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit introduced in late 2025 (5,000 for six months)
Visa allocations are typically capped based on package or facility size. DUQE’s standard maximum is six visas; businesses anticipating larger workforces may need alternative arrangements.
Physical presence requirements vary by free zone. Some require dedicated office space; others-including DUQE-accept flexi-desk or virtual office arrangements depending on licence type and business activities.
Corporate Structures Available
Free Zone Establishment (FZE) suits single-shareholder companies, providing a straightforward structure for individual entrepreneurs or corporate entities establishing a subsidiary.
Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC or FZCO) accommodates multiple shareholders-from two up to fifty depending on specific free zone regulations-enabling partnership structures and joint ventures.
Branch offices of existing local or foreign companies extend operations into a Dubai free zone without creating a separate legal entity, useful for established businesses testing the market.
Industrial Licence in DUQE Free Zone
DUQE Free Zone combines competitive pricing, rapid setup, and a prestigious business address. At 12,500–23,000 annually with 1–3 day licence issuance, it represents the lowest-cost, fastest route to an industrial licence in Dubai- ideal for businesses needing the classification without dedicated manufacturing facilities.
Background and Location
Established June 2022 under the Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation (PCFC), DUQE operates aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 cruise ship permanently docked at Mina Rashid. This places it within the same regulatory family as Dubai’s established port and customs infrastructure.
The location offers a prestigious maritime address with the QE2’s heritage appeal-18 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 15 minutes from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. DUQE positions itself as a hub for innovators and startups, fostering community-driven networking among registered companies.
Industrial Activities Permitted
DUQE’s industrial licence authorises manufacturing, packaging, and re-packaging operations. Licence holders can engage in:
Importing raw materials for production purposes, taking advantage of free zone customs exemptions that eliminate the standard 5% duty on inputs.
Manufacturing products across permitted industrial categories. Actual production typically occurs through third-party facilities rather than on-site-DUQE’s structure accommodates outsourced manufacturing models.
Exporting finished and semi-finished goods to international markets without customs complications or re-export duties.
Product assembly and finishing operations that add value to imported components before distribution.
Light industrial processes suitable for contract manufacturing arrangements where the licence holder manages quality, logistics, and sales while partners handle production.
Facilities Available
DUQE’s physical facilities occupy the Mezzanine floor of the QE2:
- Co-working spaces and flexi-desks for flexible workspace needs
- Executive cabins and private offices for permanent presence
- Meeting rooms and conference facilities for client and team gatherings
- Virtual office packages providing registered address and mail handling
Critical distinction: DUQE does not offer warehouses, factory floors, light industrial units, or manufacturing infrastructure. All facilities are office-based. This makes DUQE suitable for businesses managing production through external partners-not for companies operating their own manufacturing plants.
DUQE Pricing Structure
All packages include trade licence, up to three business activities, and lease agreement. Current pricing from DUQE’s official website:
| Package | Annual Cost (AED) | Visa Quota |
|---|---|---|
| 0 Visa | 12,500 | 0 |
| 1 Visa | 14,250 | 1 |
| 2 Visas | 16,000 | 2 |
| 3 Visas | 17,750 | 3 |
| 4 Visas | 19,500 | 4 |
| 5 Visas | 21,250 | 5 |
| 6 Visas | 23,000 | 6 |
Each additional visa adds 1,750 to the package price. The maximum standard allocation is six visas, though additional quota may be available upon application.
Visa processing fees-medical examination, Emirates ID, and visa stamping-cost approximately 3,000–6,000 per person separately, depending on visa type and processing speed.
VAT at 5% may apply to certain fees. Confirm the complete cost breakdown directly with DUQE before committing.
Processing Timeline
DUQE’s streamlined digital processes enable rapid formation:
- Licence issuance: 1–3 business days from complete documentation
- Full setup with visas: 1–2 weeks depending on medical appointment scheduling
- Remote application: Possible for most steps; physical Dubai presence required only for medical tests, Emirates ID biometrics, and corporate bank account opening
This speed advantage is substantial. Mainland industrial licensing typically requires 2–3 months including external authority approvals-DUQE completes in roughly one-tenth the time.
Value-Added Services
Beyond licensing, DUQE provides supporting services:
Banking support through Mashreq Bank partnership facilitates corporate account opening-often challenging for new free zone companies without established relationships.
PRO services handle visa processing, document attestation, and government liaison requirements.
Accounting and bookkeeping assistance helps maintain compliant financial records.
VAT registration support guides companies through tax registration requirements.
Ideal Business Profiles for DUQE
DUQE’s industrial licence suits specific scenarios:
Import/export businesses needing industrial classification for product categories requiring that authorisation-even without manufacturing. Certain goods can only be traded under industrial licences; DUQE provides the classification without infrastructure requirements.
Outsourced manufacturing models where production occurs at contract facilities while the legal entity, import/export capabilities, and customer relationships sit with the DUQE company.
Product design and R&D operations requiring industrial classification for regulatory or contractual purposes without building manufacturing infrastructure.
Market-testing entrepreneurs establishing low-risk Dubai presence before committing capital to larger facilities.
Cost-conscious startups prioritising minimal outlay and fast market entry.
Example scenario: A European skincare brand sources contract manufacturing from a facility in an industrial zone while holding their industrial licence through DUQE. They manage product development, quality oversight, and international distribution from DUQE’s offices at 16,000/year-avoiding the 250,000 minimum capital and 3-month setup timeline a mainland licence would require. When UAE retail demand justifies expansion, they can add a mainland branch or obtain the Operating Permit for direct domestic sales.
When DUQE Is Not the Right Choice
DUQE’s structure means certain operations should look elsewhere:
- On-site warehousing or storage – DUQE has no warehouse facilities
- Heavy manufacturing or large-scale production – requires dedicated industrial infrastructure
- Workforces exceeding six employees – visa caps may prove restrictive
- Hazardous materials or chemical processing – requires specialised safety infrastructure
- Production lines, heavy machinery, or specialised utilities – needs purpose-built facilities
These operations should evaluate mainland licensing or industrial free zones offering dedicated manufacturing infrastructure.
Mainland Industrial Licence Requirements
For businesses requiring physical manufacturing facilities or direct UAE market access, mainland licensing through DET offers a different pathway with its own advantages.
Ownership Rules for Foreign Investors
Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020 transformed mainland business ownership, permitting 100% foreign ownership for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities. This reform, effective June 2021, eliminated the longstanding requirement for UAE nationals to hold majority stakes in most mainland companies.
The Limited Liability Company (LLC) remains the most common structure for mainland industrial operations, offering liability protection while accommodating various ownership configurations.
A narrow list of strategic sectors still requires UAE national participation under Cabinet Resolution No. 55 of 2021: banking, insurance, telecommunications, and defence-related activities. Standard manufacturing falls outside these restrictions.
Approved Industrial Zones
Mainland industrial operations must locate in designated areas:
Al Quoz Industrial Areas – one of Dubai’s oldest and largest districts with 12,400+ registered businesses across multiple sub-zones. Established infrastructure with competitive rental rates.
Ras Al Khor Industrial Areas – strategic location with strong transport connectivity to major routes and Dubai’s central districts.
Dubai Investment Park – master-planned development offering integrated industrial, commercial, and residential facilities.
Jebel Ali mainland area – proximity to port facilities for businesses with significant import/export requirements.
These zones feature industrial-grade utilities, heavy vehicle access, and compliance with safety and environmental regulations for production activities.
Documentation Required
Mainland industrial licence applications require comprehensive documentation:
- Shareholder identification – passport copies and Emirates ID (if applicable) for all shareholders and directors
- Trade name reservation certificate – securing the company’s proposed business name
- Notarised Memorandum of Association – defining company structure, shareholding, and governance
- Ejari-registered lease agreement – for industrial premises in an approved zone (virtual offices not permitted)
- Factory blueprint with machinery layout – showing proposed production setup and workflow
- Business plan and feasibility study – demonstrating operational viability
- MoIAT clearance – confirming compliance with federal industrial regulations
- Dubai Municipality approval – covering environmental and health compliance
- Dubai Civil Defense certificate – confirming fire safety compliance
- DEWA utility approval – for industrial-grade electricity and water connections
- Sector-specific NOCs – from relevant ministries for regulated industries (food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals)
Application Process Through DET
The mainland licensing process follows a structured sequence:
Activity selection from DET’s classification system determines specific authorised activities.
Trade name reservation (620–900) secures the proposed business name.
Initial DET approval (120–500) confirms eligibility to proceed.
MOA drafting and notarisation (1,000–4,000) establishes the legal foundation.
Premises lease and Ejari registration secures compliant facilities and registers tenancy.
External approvals from MoIAT, Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense, and DEWA represent the most time-consuming phase, requiring coordination across multiple government entities.
Licence issuance follows completion of all approvals-DET processing takes 3–10 working days once documentation is complete.
Total timeline: 2–3 months for straightforward setups; 4–6 months for regulated sectors requiring additional approvals.
Mainland Costs
Mainland industrial licensing involves higher costs and capital requirements:
- Total government fees: 25,000–35,000 for setup (excluding premises lease and visas)
- Annual DET licence fee: 12,000–15,000 depending on activities
- MoIAT minimum capital: 250,000 for industrial licences (higher thresholds for certain sectors)
- Visa allocation: approximately one visa per 9 square metres of space-unlimited expansion as facility size increases
Mainland Advantages
Direct UAE market access – sell to consumers, retailers, and corporate customers throughout the UAE without intermediaries, permits, or distributors.
Government contract eligibility – bid for and execute public sector tenders typically closed to free zone entities.
Unlimited visa scaling – workforce grows with facility size rather than hitting package caps.
No geographical restrictions – operate anywhere in the UAE without jurisdictional limitations.
Regulatory Compliance for Industrial Operations
Beyond initial licensing, industrial operations require ongoing compliance with environmental, safety, and sector-specific regulations.
Environmental Clearance
Dubai Municipality requires Environmental Impact Assessment for major industrial projects classified as Category A. This involves baseline surveys covering air quality, noise levels, and odour impacts-often requiring numerical modelling to predict operational effects.
Timeline: 4–12 weeks depending on project complexity. The Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority oversees ongoing compliance under Law No. 11 of 2024.
Free zone-based businesses like DUQE licence holders typically face lighter environmental requirements when not operating physical production facilities.
Fire Safety Approval
Dubai Civil Defense approval is mandatory for any industrial facility:
- Compliance with UAE Fire and Life Safety Code
- Industrial fire suppression systems installed and certified
- DCD Direct Alarm System integration for emergency response
- Explosion-proof equipment where handling flammable materials
Timeline: approximately 2 months from drawing submission through inspection.
Sector-Specific Requirements
Food production: HACCP-based food safety management compliant with Dubai Food Code 2.0, ESMA conformity assessment for products including water, dairy, and beverages, designated food safety officers, regular Municipality inspections.
Pharmaceuticals: GMP certification, marketing authorisation, Emirates Drug Establishment registration under Federal Decree-Law No. 38/2024 (effective January 2025), pharmacovigilance systems for post-market monitoring.
Chemicals: Isolated storage with fireproof walls, automatic suppression systems rated for chemical fires, maintained Material Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous substances.
Customs and Duty Treatment
Standard import duty of 5% on CIF value applies to most goods entering the UAE.
Raw materials exemption: Companies holding valid industrial licences are exempt from import duty on production inputs-a significant cost advantage for manufacturing operations.
Free zone benefits: Zero import or re-export duties for goods remaining within free zone boundaries. Duty applies only when goods enter the mainland market.
Dubai Customs Mirsal 2 system via the Dubai Trade portal handles documentation electronically. Businesses must register for an import code.
Labour Compliance
Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 governs employment relationships:
Mid-day work ban prohibits outdoor work in direct sunlight between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM from 15 June to 15 September.
Maximum hours: 48 per week with overtime at 1.25x–1.5x standard rates.
Wage Protection System (WPS) requires all salaries paid through authorised financial institutions.
Worker accommodation standards apply to employers with 50+ employees earning under 1,500 monthly-minimum space allocations, bed provisions, first aid facilities.
OHS officers mandatory for establishments with 50+ workers.
Cost Comparison: DUQE vs Mainland
| Element | DUQE Free Zone | Mainland (DET) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual licence | From 12,500 | 12,000–15,000 |
| First-year total | 12,500–23,000 | 25,000–35,000+ |
| Minimum capital | Not specified | 250,000 |
| Visa capacity | 6 standard (expandable) | Unlimited (space-based) |
| Premises | Virtual/flexi-desk sufficient | Physical industrial premises mandatory |
| Setup time | 1–3 days (licence) | 2–3 months (with approvals) |
| Corporate tax | 0% on qualifying income | 9% above 375,000 |
| UAE market access | Via distributor/permit | Direct |
Hidden Costs to Budget
Beyond headline licence fees, industrial operations involve additional expenses that catch many entrepreneurs off-guard:
Environmental consultants: 15,000–50,000+ for Environmental Impact Assessments depending on project complexity.
Fire suppression systems: 50,000–200,000+ for installation depending on facility size and hazard classification.
HACCP certification: 5,000–20,000 for consultant fees plus certification body charges (food operations).
Worker accommodation: 500–2,000 per worker monthly when employer-provided housing required.
Bank account minimums: Often 50,000+ plus monthly fees varying by bank.
Annual renewals: Licences, permits, and certificates create recurring compliance costs.
DUQE’s all-inclusive packages avoid most of these-no premises to certify, no fire systems to install, no environmental assessments for office-based operations.
Choosing Between Free Zone and Mainland
Decision Framework
Choose DUQE Free Zone when:
- Industrial classification needed without on-site manufacturing
- Production outsourced to third-party facilities
- Cost minimisation is the priority
- Workforce requirements are six or fewer initially
- Speed of setup is critical (days vs months)
- Business primarily serves international markets
Choose Mainland when:
- Direct UAE market access is essential
- Physical manufacturing facility required
- Large workforce anticipated from outset
- Government contracts are a target market
- Unlimited scaling potential needed
Market Access Considerations
Free zone companies cannot sell directly to mainland customers without using distributors (adding margin), establishing mainland branches (adding cost), or obtaining the Operating Permit (5,000 for six months, introduced late 2025).
Mainland companies face no such restrictions and can bid on government contracts-often a significant revenue opportunity closed to free zone entities.
Tax Implications
- Both jurisdictions permit full profit and capital repatriation with zero personal income tax.
- Free zones offer 0% corporate tax on qualifying income under the UAE’s tax framework.
- Mainland operations pay 9% on taxable income above 375,000.
For a company with 2 million taxable income, the difference is 146,250 annually-substantial enough to influence jurisdiction choice for profitable operations.
Government Support for Industrial Businesses
The UAE actively supports industrial development through financing and policy initiatives that benefit both free zone and mainland licence holders.
Operation 300bn
Launched March 2021 by MoIAT, this national strategy targets increasing industrial GDP from 133 billion to 300 billion by 2031.
Progress has exceeded expectations: industrial GDP reached approximately 210 billion by 2024-57–62% growth in three years. Industrial exports hit a record 262 billion in 2025, demonstrating the sector’s expanding global competitiveness.
Make it in the Emirates
This initiative extends Operation 300bn through practical support programmes. The fourth forum (May 2025) announced 11 billion in new industrial projects and secured 40 billion in competitive bank financing commitments over five years.
The In-Country Value Programme drives local procurement, with cumulative spending reaching 347 billion through participating government and semi-government entities.
Emirates Development Bank Financing
- 30 billion allocated to priority industrial sectors
- Up to 90% financing for Industry 4.0 technology adoption (automation, digitalisation, advanced manufacturing)
- Credit guarantee scheme covering 50% of commercial bank loan values
- Target: 13,500 SME beneficiaries, 25,000 new jobs
Trade Agreement Benefits
Raw materials exemption eliminates standard 5% import duty for industrial licence holders-regardless of whether they hold DUQE, mainland, or other free zone licences.
21 Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements provide preferential market access to India, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korea, and other major trading partners.
GAFTA membership offers duty-free access to Arab League markets for qualifying goods.
Certificate of Origin services through Dubai Chamber facilitate preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements.
Intellectual Property Protection
Manufacturing businesses should understand IP protection mechanisms available in the UAE.
Registration
Patents receive 20-year protection from filing date, covering inventions, processes, and technical innovations.
Trademarks are protected for 10-year terms with unlimited renewal options.
Madrid Protocol accession (December 2021) enables UAE businesses to file international trademark applications through a single process.
UAE-USPTO agreement (July 2025) accelerates patent grants for US applicants, facilitating technology transfer and international investment.
Enforcement
Ministry of Economy handles trademark and patent registration, maintaining the national IP registry.
Customs recordation enables border enforcement-Dubai Customs can detain suspected counterfeit shipments.
Civil and criminal remedies are available for IP infringement, including injunctions, damages, and criminal penalties.
How to Apply for a DUQE Industrial Licence
The application process is designed for speed and simplicity.
Step 1: Determine Activity and Structure
Confirm intended industrial activities fall within DUQE’s permitted categories. Select corporate structure:
- FZE for single shareholders
- FZ-LLC for multiple shareholders (2–50)
- Branch for extending existing company operations
Identify visa requirements, keeping in mind the standard maximum of six.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Required documents:
- Passport copies for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of address for shareholders
- Business plan outlining industrial activities
- Board resolution (for corporate shareholders)
- Power of attorney (if using authorised representative)
Documentation requirements are straightforward compared to mainland-no factory blueprints, feasibility studies, or multiple government clearances for businesses not operating physical production.
Step 3: Submit Application
Complete online application through DUQE’s portal. Select package based on visa requirements (12,500–23,000). Receive initial approval typically within 1–3 business days.
Step 4: Finalise Setup
- Sign lease agreement and memorandum of association
- Receive trade licence certificate
- Apply for employee visas (schedule medical and biometric appointments)
- Open corporate bank account (Mashreq Bank partnership available)
- Register for VAT if expecting to exceed 375,000 threshold
Step 5: Begin Operations
- Obtain sector-specific approvals if required
- Establish third-party manufacturer relationships for production
- Set up customs registration through Dubai Trade portal for import/export
Selecting the Right Industrial Licence
Dubai’s industrial licensing offers distinct pathways for different business models. The right choice depends on operational requirements, not marketing claims.
DUQE Free Zone delivers the lowest entry cost among Dubai free zones-from 12,500 annually-with setup measured in days rather than months. For businesses needing industrial classification for import/export, regulatory compliance, or contractual requirements without operating production facilities, DUQE provides a streamlined, cost-effective solution with a prestigious QE2 business address.
The trade-off is clear: DUQE offers no manufacturing infrastructure. Operations requiring on-site production, warehousing, or large workforces should evaluate mainland licensing or industrial free zones with dedicated facilities.
With industrial exports at a record 262 billion and government financing exceeding 30 billion for the sector, Dubai’s industrial opportunity continues strengthening. The key is matching operational reality to the right jurisdiction. For asset-light industrial models-outsourced manufacturing, import/export, R&D, market testing-DUQE’s combination of low cost, speed, and flexibility makes it the logical starting point.
Prices current as of February 2026 and subject to change. Verify costs and requirements directly with DUQE Free Zone or relevant authorities before proceeding with licence applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an industrial licence cost in DUQE Free Zone?
Packages start at 12,500 annually (0 visas) rising to 23,000 (6 visas). Each includes trade licence, three business activities, and lease agreement. Visa processing costs 3,000–6,000 per person separately.
Can foreigners own 100% of an industrial company in Dubai?
Yes. Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020 permits 100% foreign ownership in both free zones and mainland for over 1,000 activities. Only banking, insurance, telecoms, and defence require UAE national participation.
What is the difference between a commercial and industrial licence?
Commercial licences cover trading-buying, selling, importing, exporting without transformation. Industrial licences authorise manufacturing, processing, assembly, and packaging from raw materials. The distinction affects customs treatment, regulatory requirements, and permitted activities.
How long does it take to get an industrial licence in DUQE?
Licence issuance: 1–3 business days. Full setup with visas: 1–2 weeks. Mainland licensing typically requires 2–3 months including external authority approvals.
Does DUQE offer warehouse or factory space?
No. DUQE provides office facilities only-co-working, flexi-desks, executive cabins, virtual offices. Businesses requiring production or storage facilities should consider industrial free zones or mainland options.
Can a DUQE company sell directly in the UAE market?
Not directly. Free zone companies must use distributors, establish mainland branches, or obtain the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit (5,000 for six months) to reach mainland customers.
What approvals are required for an industrial licence?
DUQE licences require minimal external approvals-the free zone authority handles most requirements. Mainland licences require MoIAT registration, Municipality environmental clearance, Civil Defense fire safety, DEWA connection, plus sector-specific NOCs for regulated industries.
Is there a minimum capital requirement?
Mainland industrial licences require 250,000 minimum capital under MoIAT regulations. DUQE does not publish a specific minimum, though share capital must be stated in incorporation documents.
How many visas can I get with a DUQE industrial licence?
Standard packages include up to 6 visas. Additional quota may be available at 1,750 per visa upon application. Businesses requiring significantly more employees may need alternative licensing options.
What industries qualify for an industrial licence?
Qualifying activities include food processing, textiles, metal fabrication, pharmaceuticals, electronics, plastics, chemicals, building materials, printing, packaging, and light assembly. Specific activity lists vary by licensing authority.