Manufacturing is now one of the UAE’s most productive sectors, contributing over AED 200 billion to the economy in 2024 alone. From industrial metals and food packaging to precision parts and consumer goods, Dubai has become a strong base for businesses making and exporting products.
This guide walks you through how to get a manufacturing license in Dubai. It covers the license types available, what’s involved in applying, the expected costs, and how to get expert support if you’re planning to launch a production business in 2025.
What is a manufacturing license?
A manufacturing license, officially called an industrial license, gives a business the legal right to carry out production or assembly work in Dubai. This includes everything from food processing and metal fabrication to packaging, textiles, paper goods, and more. If your business will involve making or modifying physical products on-site, this license is a must.
The license is issued by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), with oversight from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT). You’ll also need to meet certain site, staffing, and capital requirements depending on what you plan to produce. The rules are different for small units and large factories, but all manufacturers need this license in place before they can begin operating.
How to get a manufacturing license in Dubai: step-by-step
Getting your manufacturing license takes several steps, each tied to your business activity, the size of your operation, and where you plan to set up. Here’s how the process works.
Define your business activity
Start by being clear about what you’ll produce. Will you be packaging food, casting metal parts, assembling electronics, or doing something else? Your listed activity must match the actual work you’ll do. This affects which authorities need to review your application, and what approvals you’ll need later.
Choose your jurisdiction
Decide whether you’ll set up in mainland Dubai or in a designated industrial zone. A mainland license gives you direct access to the UAE market and public contracts. Some zones are more geared toward exports or certain sectors. Your choice will affect costs, paperwork, and where you can lease a unit.
Reserve your trade name and choose a legal structure
Pick a business name and legal form. You might set up as an LLC, a sole proprietorship, or a branch. Mainland companies go through the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). If you’re setting up in a zone, the authority there will guide you.
Apply for initial approval
Once your trade name and structure are locked in, apply for initial approval. You’ll submit passport copies, a summary of your planned activity, and possibly a basic business plan. This confirms your setup is allowed under Dubai’s rules.
Secure a facility lease
You’ll need a physical space for your operation. This can be a warehouse, workshop, or full production site, depending on your scale. Your lease should be in a zone approved for industrial use and registered correctly with the authorities.
Get external approvals if required
Depending on what you’re producing, you might need extra clearances:
- Food, cosmetics, or medical goods require signoff from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP).
- Businesses with environmental impacts may need reports or permits from the Environment and Water Ministry.
- Dubai Civil Defence checks fire safety and emergency readiness.
- For some activities, you may also need utility capacity confirmation from DEWA or a similar body.
Apply for your manufacturing license
Once you have initial approval and any required NOCs, submit your full application. This includes your lease, identification documents, and external approvals. For mainland setups, apply through the DET. For zones, apply through their internal system.
Register with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT)
After receiving your local license, register with MoIAT to get your Industrial Production Certificate. This step makes your business eligible for customs exemptions on machinery and raw materials. You’ll need to show you meet minimum capital (AED 250,000) and employment levels (usually 10 workers), and MoIAT may inspect your site.
Complete the final inspection
Before you begin operations, inspectors may visit your facility to check it meets safety, environmental, and technical standards. The requirements vary depending on your product and location.
Start operations
Once everything is in place, you can apply for visas, bring in equipment, hire staff, and begin production.
Types of manufacturing licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers different categories of manufacturing licenses depending on the scale and nature of your work. Choosing the right one depends on your product, setup size, and compliance needs.
A light industrial license suits small-scale producers with limited equipment and low environmental or safety risks. This includes businesses like auto repair, light assembly, and simple packaging operations.
A medium industrial license applies to mid-sized factories or workshops with more machinery or storage space. These setups may involve moderate risks and must meet extra safety and zoning standards.
A heavy industrial license is required for large-scale production or anything involving hazardous materials, such as chemical plants or foundries. These licenses need detailed technical reports, higher capital, and more government approvals.
An SME license is tailored for smaller manufacturers entering the market. It comes with simpler procedures and often applies to food processing, consumer goods, and early-stage operations.
A specialised license covers highly regulated activities, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or food requiring strict hygiene controls. These businesses must follow sector-specific rules and quality standards.
Costs of starting a manufacturing business in Dubai
Starting a manufacturing business in Dubai comes with a mix of upfront and ongoing costs. The license itself usually ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, depending on your activity, approvals, and chosen location.
Beyond the licensing fee, there are other expenses to plan for. These often include inspection charges, warehouse or facility rental, and visa processing for staff. You may also need to budget for utilities, equipment, permits from government bodies, and third-party approvals if your activity is regulated.
While costs vary from one setup to the next, businesses dealing with food, chemicals, or complex machinery should expect higher compliance and inspection fees. Smaller-scale or SME operations often see lower startup costs, especially when operating from pre-approved industrial zones or fitted units.
Get your manufacturing license with Creative Zone
Setting up a manufacturing business in Dubai is a detailed process, and getting it right from the start saves time and cost later on. Whether you’re launching a small production unit or a large facility, Creative Zone can guide you through every step.
With over 75,000 companies supported since 2010, we understand what it takes to secure the right license, meet all regulatory requirements, and get your business running smoothly.
If you’re planning your business setup in Dubai and want expert support with your manufacturing license, speak to our team. We’ll help you choose the right setup, manage the paperwork, and deal with government approvals, so you can focus on building your business.
