Supply Chain Business Setup
Launch your supply chain business in Dubai and the UAE with top-grade consulting services
Building your supply chain company is easier with our expert consultants managing incorporation, licensing and complete setup support in Dubai.
The Retyn Advantage: partner for supply chain mastery
We don’t stop at a trade license. As your single turnkey partner, we build your entire end-to-end operational backbone—Customs classifications, procurement frameworks, and warehouse-level data—so your supply chain moves faster, leaner, and at global scale from day one.
Retyn LaunchPad
Gain total control with your end-to-end command center. Seamlessly track your Trade License, Dubai Customs Client Code, and RTA fleet registrations in one single, live dashboard designed for operational excellence.
Retyn InsightVault
Protect your margins with specialized supply chain intelligence. Access benchmarked warehouse rental rates, calculate precise total landed costs, and uncover hidden port fees before you commit capital.
Retyn GuardRails
Mitigate risk with turnkey global compliance. Instantly download ready-to-use Import/Export compliance checklists, Dangerous Goods (DG) policy templates, and RTA-standard safety manuals for your entire fleet.
Retyn Hub
Plug into a vetted global ecosystem instantly. We connect you directly to a network of Tier-1 3PL providers, international freight forwarders, and last-mile delivery partners to accelerate your growth.
Estimate your supply chain business setup cost in Dubai
Map your logistics venture. We cover Dubai Customs registration, HS-code mapping, and warehousing compliance mandates for 2026.
Supply chain setup cost estimator
Input your operational detail for a shareable regulatory snapshot.
Your turnkey supply chain-setup snapshot
Industry requirements for your Dubai logistics venture:
- Jurisdiction:
- Primary activity:
- Visas needed:
- Infrastructure:
- Special permits: —
- Notes: —
We’ll verify Dubai Customs registration, HS-code mapping for inventory, and Civil Defense fire safety protocols for warehouse structures.
Get an operational snapshot
Build a shareable logistics brief in under a minute—no pricing risk, no outdated figures.
- ✓ Pick zone & logistics activity
- ✓ Add mandatory safety permits
- ✓ Download accurate brief
Compare mainland vs free zone vs offshore
For supply chain & logistics: Compare customs benefits, fleet operation rights, and warehouse accessibility.
| Decision factor | Mainland (DED) | Logistics Free zones (Jafza/DAFZA) | Offshore (Holding) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Chain Verdict | ✅ Local distribution & Fleets | ✅ Regional Hub & Re-export | ℹ️ Asset / Ship holding |
| Customs Duties | 5% on import (unless bonded warehouse). | ✅ Duty Suspension inside the zone. | Not applicable (No goods handling). |
| Fleet & Transport | ✅ Direct control (RTA plates allowed). | Restricted; requires 3PL for UAE delivery. | — No fleet operations |
| Corporate Tax (Logistics) | 9% above AED 375k profit. | 0% Possible on "Qualifying Income" (Distribution). | Out-of-scope (Non-resident); strict substance rules. |
| Warehousing | Access to all UAE industrial areas. | Limited to designated Free Zone land. | No physical storage allowed. |
| Ownership | 100% Foreign (Most Transport activities). | 100% Foreign ownership. | 100% Foreign. |
| Setup Costs (Est.) | AED 15k–25k + Warehouse Lease. | AED 12k–20k + Zone Warehouse lease. | AED 8k–12k (Registered Agent). |
| Best for | Last-Mile Delivery Local Trucking Freight Forwarding | Global Logistics Re-export Air/Sea Cargo | Ship Ownership SPV |
Mainland (DED)
- Customs: 5% on import (standard)
- Transport: RTA plates allowed (Direct delivery)
- Tax: 9% Corporate Tax
- Warehousing: Any UAE industrial area
- Ownership: 100% Foreign
- Fees: AED 15k–25k + Lease
- Best for: Local Freight, Last-Mile, Trucking
Logistics Free Zones
- Customs: Duty suspension (Bonded)
- Transport: Restricted (Use 3PL for UAE)
- Tax: 0% potential on Qualifying Income
- Warehousing: Inside Zone / Ports only
- Ownership: 100% Foreign
- Fees: AED 12k–20k + Zone Lease
- Best for: Re-export, Sea/Air Cargo Hubs
Offshore (Holding)
- Customs: N/A (No goods handling)
- Transport: No operations allowed
- Tax: Out-of-scope (Subject to ESR)
- Warehousing: None
- Ownership: 100% Foreign
- Fees: AED 8k–12k
- Best for: Owning vessels/assets, SPVs
Costs are indicative. Customs duties and transport approvals (RTA/NAFL) depend on specific cargo types and fleet size.
The main benefits we bring in
Work with trusted experts to gain tailored solutions and step-by-step guidance that will make your business setup in Dubai effortless.
Industry proficiency
We guide you through logistics and supply chain regulations and compliance standards.
Turnkey setup solution
We oversee every step from trade licensing to warehouse permits and customs.
Supply chain insights
We deliver a complete analysis of Dubai's logistics and distribution landscape.
Around-the-clock support
We're always here to support your business success with our 24/7 availability.
Regional knowledge
Our specialists understand Dubai's supply chain ecosystem and free zone advantages.
Success stories
We delivered successful logistics and supply chain setups across Dubai’s key districts.
The full suite of services we offer
We assist supply chain entrepreneurs and businesses with focused services for a successful launch in Dubai’s logistics sector.
Supply chain incorporation
We provide full-service registration and licensing for supply chain companies in Dubai.
Logistics facility setup
We secure warehouses, distribution centers and offices with permits and infrastructure.
Regulatory compliance
We guarantee compliance with UAE customs, trade laws and logistics-specific standards.
Market penetration strategy
We study the supply chain market to create strategies using free zone benefits and trade routes.
Ongoing consultation
We offer ongoing support for long-term growth of your supply chain and logistics operations.
Essential business support solutions beyond setup
We make sure you are guided not only through the launch but also as your business expands with dedicated service and care.
Focus on your goals while we handle the complete setup process.
Use our proven expertise to establish your business in Dubai, as we take care of all processes and requirements.
Required documentation for supply chain setup
Getting your logistics license involves general corporate docs plus specific warehouse and transport approvals. Use this checklist to prepare.
For individual shareholders
- Valid passport copy of each shareholder
- Passport-size photo (White background)
- UID/Visa page copy (if UAE resident)
- Emirates ID copy (for UAE residents)
- NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
For corporate shareholders
- Certificate of Incorporation (Attested)
- MoA/AoA of parent company (Attested)
- Board resolution for UAE Logistics branch
- Passport copies of Parent Company UBOs
- Good Standing Certificate (if required)
Logistics & Activity Info
- Trade Name options (3 choices)
- List of products/goods (HS Codes)
- Warehouse Layout/Ejari (for Inspections)
- Customs Code requirements
- Vehicle list (if registering fleet)
Note: Specialized activities (Dangerous Goods, Food Transport) require additional approvals from Civil Defense or Dubai Municipality.
Client stories from Dubai and the UAE
Hear from founders and business owners who set up their companies with our team and continue to grow with our ongoing support.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION . MARKETING AGENCY
"Great experience working with Retyn"
“ From documentation to approvals, they sorted everything end-to-end and made a complex process feel simple and stress-free. What stood out most was their responsiveness, attention to detail, and willingness to take ownership instead of just giving instructions.”
Haris Aboobacker
Founder - Haca, Haris & co
Copy review
Finance startup · Free zone setup
“5 stars across the board!”
“Services were competitively priced and I would be very happy to recommend to anyone. In fact, I will be using the services again shortly. 5 stars across the board!.”
Muhammad Faisal Ishaq
Portfolio Manager, DIFC Company
Copy review
Technical services · Mainland license
“Clear guidance on the right structure”
“I had an excellent experience working with Retyn on opening my company. The entire process was timely, simple, and absolutely straight to the point. They guided everything with professionalism and clarity, removing all the stress that usually comes with such procedures.”
Lemme K
Operation Director, Technical services in Dubai
Copy review
Organic firm · Ongoing support
“Excellent partner beyond setup”
“Even after incorporation, Retyn helps us with visa renewals, banking and compliance updates. Having a single point of contact saves our team a lot of time and effort.”
Sanjeev Bhatt
Managing Director, Organic hair colours company in the UAE
Copy review
Supply chain business setup in Dubai and the UAE. The whole process
We’ll break down Dubai’s logistics sector and strategically place your supply chain business in the perfect spot for growth.
Consult now
Step: 01
Initial evaluation
We analyze your business model and adapt it to utilize Dubai's robust trade infrastructure.
Step: 02
Strategic planning
We design a roadmap that includes licensing, location selection and operational requirements.
Step: 03
Execution
We put plan into action from company registration, warehouse setup and trade permits.
Step: 04
Operational launch
We provide complete support for initiating your supply chain operations in Dubai.
Step: 05
Post-launch services
Our experts are always available for post-launch support and business expansion needs.
Where to set up your supply chain business
Choose the zone that best fits your launch goals and our experts will guide you through future success.
UAE logistics regulations & updates
Stay updated on Customs policies, Free Zone "Qualifying Income" for distribution, and transport visa rules.
Last reviewed: November 15, 2025
Dubai issues detailed rules for autonomous vehicles used in goods transport
Dubai issued bylaw for autonomous vehicles, setting licensing, technical and operational standards for autonomous vehicles transporting goods.
- Affects: Supply chain deploying autonomous vehicles for goods movement
- Action: Update operational frameworks before adopting autonomous transport solutions.
New Dubai procurement rules reshape access to government supply contracts
Government entities can use limited tenders or direct negotiation, with tighter eligibility via prequalified supplier lists and stronger justification.
- Affects: Supply chain and logistics supplying goods or services to Dubai government entities
- Action: Review government-facing sales strategies and ensure supplier pre-qualification.
New UAE geospatial licensing rules impact logistics mapping and routing systems
New regulation requires licences and permits for activities involving maps, location data and transport networks across commercial operations.
- Affects: Supply chain businesses using GPS routing, mapping or location analytics
- Action: Review geospatial data usage across fleet, warehousing and network management.
Dubai brings key logistics zones under ports and free zone authority
Dubai consolidated multiple industrial land plots under PCFC, creating a special development zone with a unified regulatory and oversight framework.
- Affects: Supply chain, logistics, warehousing, freight forwarding businesses
- Action: Review licensing, land use rights and operating models to align with the requirements
Permit rules tightened for commercial maritime operations impacting cargo movement
Stricter compliance requirements introduced for vessels conducting commercial maritime activities, including goods transport and material handling.
- Affects: Supply chain and logistics businesses transporting goods in vessels
- Action: Align business and operations with the new maritime compliance framework.
Dubai revises Salik toll rules affecting routing and delivery costs for logistics fleets
Dubai suspends toll charges between 1:00 am and 6:00 am, apply tolls on public holidays and major events and allow flexible peak-hour adjustments.
- Affects: Supply chain and distribution operating vehicle fleets across Dubai
- Action: Adjust delivery windows and fleet routing strategies to leverage toll-free night hours.
Note: Logistics regulations change frequently. Please consult our team for the latest RTA, Customs, and Municipality rules.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to the most common questions we get about setting up a supply chain business in Dubai.
Setting up a supply chain business involves specific trade licenses, customs registration, warehouse permits and compliance with logistics regulations. We handle all the paperwork required on your behalf while you handle your business.
The duration of the setup process may vary depending on your business activities and chosen jurisdiction. We consult with relevant authorities to speed the process.
The legal requirements can depend on the chosen location (mainland, free zone or offshore). The primary requirements are trade licensing, customs registration, warehouse permits and compliance with UAE logistics regulations. Some operations require other permits for specific supply chain activities.
Yes. We provide complete support for supply chain operations even after the launch. Our team offers customs compliance updates, logistics advisory and operational assistance.
The cost is dependent on business location (mainland or free zone), license type, facility requirements and operational scale. We offer transparent pricing and customized packages that fit your supply chain business needs. Contact us for a detailed quotation.
Launch. Build. Grow.
Avoid the hassle of complex regulations and achieve your supply chain goals in Dubai. Partner with us for a compliant and successful launch.
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