dubai industrial city free zone 2026 | business setup, license & cost guide

Dubai Industrial City (DIC) Free Zone 2026 – Complete Guide to Company Formation, License Types & Setup Costs

14-Oct-2025 0 Comments 0 Views

Dubai Industrial City (DIC), also known as Dubai Industrial Park, is one of the UAE’s largest dedicated manufacturing and logistics hubs. Strategically located near Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port, it provides unmatched connectivity for industrial, trading, and logistics businesses. Established to accelerate industrial diversification under Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030, DIC continues to grow rapidly in 2026, attracting investors from across the world.


Overview of Dubai Industrial City Free Zone

Spanning over 560 million square feet, Dubai Industrial City Free Zone houses more than 200+ international companies in key sectors such as food & beverage, metals, construction, logistics, and machinery.
It is managed under TECOM Group and governed by the Dubai Technology & Media Free Zone Authority (DTMFZA), ensuring streamlined business setup and investor-friendly policies.


Why Choose Dubai Industrial City for Business Setup

  • 100% foreign ownership allowed

  • Full repatriation of capital & profits

  • Zero personal or corporate tax

  • No import/export duties on machinery or raw materials

  • World-class infrastructure with 24/7 utilities

  • Easy access to GCC and MENA markets under UAE’s Free Trade Agreements

  • Simplified visa, licensing, and leasing processes

  • State-of-the-art logistics network near air and sea ports

Dubai Industrial City is one of the most cost-effective free zones in Dubai for manufacturing and logistics investors.


Key Industries in Dubai Industrial City

Food & Beverage Industry

DIC offers temperature-controlled warehouses and specialized food-grade storage facilities. Ideal for FMCG, packaging, and processing companies.

Construction Material Industry

From steel fabrication to ready-mix concrete and ceramic production, DIC is the hub for heavy-duty industries requiring vast land plots.

Textile & Apparel Industry

Tailored infrastructure supports garment production, dyeing, and distribution for fashion and export-oriented businesses.

Logistics & Supply Chain Services

Modern logistics parks with advanced transport connectivity, warehousing, and on-site customs clearance options.

Machinery & Equipment Manufacturing

Dedicated zones for mechanical parts, automotive components, and engineering workshops.


Dubai Industrial City Free Zone Advantages 2026

  • 100% foreign ownership and profit repatriation

  • Duty-free imports of machinery and raw materials

  • Access to skilled multilingual workforce

  • Customizable warehouses and industrial plots

  • 24/7 on-site security and infrastructure maintenance

  • Simplified setup & renewal process

  • No bureaucratic delays or hidden fees


Dubai Industrial City License Types

Industrial License

For manufacturing, production, and assembly activities.

Trading License

For importing, exporting, and distributing goods within and outside the UAE.

Service License

Covers auditing, consulting, accounting, logistics, and professional services.

Commercial License

Authorizes companies to perform commercial and retail operations within the free zone.


Legal Entity Options in DIC Free Zone

Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC)

  • Minimum capital: AED 50,000

  • 1 or more shareholders (individuals or corporates)

  • Requires a director and company secretary

Branch of Local or Foreign Company

  • No minimum capital required

  • Operates as an extension of parent company

  • Must mirror parent business activities


Dubai Industrial City Business Setup Process 2026

Step 1 – Choose Business Activity & Zone

Select from one of DIC’s six major industrial zones:

  • Chemicals Zone

  • Base Metal Zone

  • Machinery & Equipment Zone

  • Mineral Products Zone

  • Transport Equipment & Parts Zone

  • Food & Beverage Zone

Step 2 – Submit Application & Documents

Prepare and submit:

  • Application form

  • Passport copies of shareholders and manager

  • Business plan

  • Proof of address and relevant licenses (if applicable)

Step 3 – Review, Approval & Payment

DIC authority reviews your documents and issues a provisional approval and customer confirmation letter. Proceed to pay setup and license fees.

Step 4 – MOA, AOA & Bank Account Opening

Sign the Memorandum (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA). Open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum capital.

Step 5 – Lease Agreement & License Issuance

Once documents are verified, TECOM issues your Certificate of Incorporation, Lease Agreement, and official Business License.
You’ll receive office keys and access credentials to begin operations.


Dubai Industrial City Free Zone License Cost & Packages

License Type Cost Range (Approx.) Validity
Industrial License AED 25,000 – 35,000 1 Year
Trading / Commercial License AED 20,000 – 30,000 1 Year
Service License AED 15,000 – 25,000 1 Year
Warehouse Rental AED 45 – 65 per sq. ft. Annual
Office Space AED 80 – 120 per sq. ft. Annual

License cost depends on facility size, activity type, and visa quota.


DIC Free Zone Facilities & Infrastructure

  • Ready-built warehouses for rent

  • Fully serviced office spaces and showrooms

  • Industrial plots with power and utilities

  • On-site worker accommodation

  • Logistics hub connected to ports and highways

  • High-speed telecommunications network

  • Customs & government service center inside the zone


Dubai Industrial City Visa & Employment Options

  • Investor, partner, and employment visas available

  • Visa quota depends on office or warehouse size

  • Fast-track Dubai Industrial City visa processing through the DIC portal

  • Medical test, Emirates ID, and stamping managed within the free zone


Benefits for Foreign Investors & Entrepreneurs

  • Simple and transparent registration process

  • Dedicated business support for startups

  • Access to regional export markets

  • Cost-efficient industrial leasing options

  • Eligibility for UAE Investor Visa and family sponsorship

  • Seamless company setup for Indians, Europeans, and other foreign nationals


How to Start Business in Dubai Industrial City (Step-by-Step Summary)

  1. Choose your business activity

  2. Select the right license type

  3. Prepare documents and application

  4. Submit to DIC authority

  5. Pay license and setup fees

  6. Obtain approval and sign lease

  7. Collect license and begin operations


Risks of Using Unofficial Setup Agents

Avoid unregistered consultants or agents. Risks include:

  • Incorrect license issuance

  • Hidden service charges

  • Delayed approvals or document loss

  • Fake or invalid trade license

Always apply through official DIC channels or trusted partners like DubaiEvisaOnline for genuine setup assistance.


Why Choose DubaiEvisaOnline for DIC Business Setup

  • Licensed Dubai free zone consultancy partner

  • Transparent pricing and no hidden charges

  • Fast-track setup support within 3–5 working days

  • Expert assistance with visa and bank account opening

  • End-to-end documentation help

  • 24×7 support for investors worldwide

Apply today and get your Dubai Industrial City Free Zone License approved effortlessly with our experienced team.


Apply for Your Dubai Industrial City License Online

Start your industrial journey today!
Apply for your Dubai Industrial City Free Zone License online through DubaiEvisaOnline – your trusted partner for secure, quick, and professional setup assistance.

Empower your business growth in the UAE’s most dynamic industrial hub. Apply now! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Typically 3–7 working days depending on documentation accuracy.

Manufacturing, trading, logistics, F&B, textiles, construction materials, and machinery sectors.

Yes, DIC allows 100% foreign ownership and full profit repatriation.

AED 50,000 for FZ-LLC, while branches have no capital requirement.

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