Dubai Logistics City
2006
400
DLC
Physical Address
Dubai Logistics City, Dubai South, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
About Dubai Logistics City
A dedicated logistics hub within Dubai South, designed to facilitate global supply chain operations with seamless connectivity to air, sea, and land transport
About Dubai Logistics City
Established in 2006 as a cornerstone component of Dubai South (formerly Dubai World Central), Dubai Logistics City represents a visionary approach to creating an integrated logistics ecosystem of unprecedented scale and efficiency. Spanning over 25 square kilometers adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, the development was conceptualized as a comprehensive logistics hub that would transform global supply chain dynamics by integrating air, land, and eventually sea transportation modalities into a seamless cargo handling system. The master plan follows a flow-optimized design that prioritizes cargo movement efficiency, multimodal transfer speed, and logistics process integration—from specialized air cargo facilities and temperature-controlled warehousing to customs-bonded zones and distribution centers designed to minimize handling time and maximize throughput velocity.
What distinguishes Dubai Logistics City from conventional logistics parks is its strategic integration with Al Maktoum International Airport—designed to become the world’s largest airport with an ultimate capacity of 16 million tonnes of freight annually. This direct airside access creates unprecedented opportunities for air cargo optimization, eliminating traditional transfer delays between airport and logistics facilities. This physical integration is complemented by a regulatory framework specifically designed for logistics efficiency, with streamlined customs procedures, cargo clearance protocols, and documentation processes that minimize administrative friction in global supply chain operations.
Logistics Ecosystem
Dubai Logistics City has evolved into a comprehensive logistics ecosystem that houses global freight forwarders, third-party logistics providers, express couriers, specialized cargo handlers, and supply chain management companies. This concentration of logistics expertise creates a dynamic environment where supply chain knowledge, operational capabilities, and multimodal connections converge, facilitating sophisticated logistics solutions that optimize time, cost, and reliability across global trade lanes.
The zone’s ecosystem extends beyond traditional logistics players to encompass the full spectrum of the supply chain value network—from customs brokers and cargo insurance specialists to packaging solutions providers, inventory management experts, and supply chain technology companies. This diversity creates natural synergies where various logistics specializations complement and reinforce each other, enabling end-to-end supply chain solutions that address complex global trade requirements. Supporting this core logistics community is a sophisticated network of value-added service providers including light assembly operations, kitting services, postponement specialists, and supply chain analytics firms that enhance the functional capabilities of the logistics ecosystem.
Available License Types
Choose from a comprehensive range of specialized business licenses designed to support various commercial activities in the DLC free zone
Commercial
General trading and business activities
Industrial
Manufacturing and production
Service
Support and service industries
Trading
Import / export and commodity tradingEach license type has specific approvals and requirements to suit different types of businesses. Our experts will help you choose the most appropriate license for your business operations.
Why Choose DLC for Your Business
Discover the unique advantages that make Dubai Logistics City a leading free zone for international business and strategic growth opportunities
Integrated Air Cargo Access
Strategic location adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport with direct airside connectivity, enabling seamless cargo transfer between aircraft and logistics facilities without the delays and costs associated with traditional airport-to-warehouse transportation.
Multimodal Logistics Connectivity
Exceptional integration of air, road, and future rail transportation modes within a single logistics ecosystem, creating efficient intermodal transfer capabilities that optimize supply chain velocity and reduce modal transfer costs.
Purpose-Built Logistics Infrastructure
Access to specialized logistics facilities designed specifically for efficient cargo handling, including high-clearance warehouses, extensive loading dock configurations, heavy-duty flooring, and purpose-designed circulation systems for optimal material flow.
Customs-Bonded Operations
Ability to operate within customs-bonded areas that allow storage, handling, processing, and redistribution of international cargo without formal import clearance until goods leave the zone for local market entry.
Streamlined Customs Procedures
Access to simplified customs processes designed specifically for high-volume logistics operations, including expedited clearance protocols, digital documentation systems, and pre-clearance options that minimize administrative friction in cargo movements.
Strategic Geographic Positioning
Operation from a logistics hub strategically positioned to serve markets across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, with over 2.5 billion consumers reachable within a 4-hour flight radius, creating exceptional distribution efficiency.
Logistics Ecosystem Concentration
Immersion in a community of complementary logistics service providers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and supply chain specialists, creating natural opportunities for partnerships, subcontracting, and collaborative logistics solutions.
100% Foreign Ownership
Complete ownership of your logistics operation without local partner requirements, giving international logistics companies full control over operational standards, quality protocols, and supply chain methodologies.
Specialized Cargo Facilities
Access to specialized infrastructure for various cargo types including temperature-controlled facilities for perishables, secure warehousing for high-value goods, hazardous materials storage, and heavy cargo handling capabilities.
Logistics Workforce Access
Proximity to a diverse pool of logistics professionals, warehouse operators, freight handlers, and supply chain specialists, supported by streamlined visa processes for logistics personnel from around the world.
24/7 Operational Capability
Infrastructure and regulatory framework designed to support round-the-clock logistics operations, including night-time cargo movements, shift-based staffing models, and continuous processing capabilities essential for global supply chains.
Supply Chain Technology Environment
Ecosystem that encourages implementation of advanced logistics technologies including automated storage and retrieval systems, warehouse robotics, IoT-enabled tracking, and supply chain visibility platforms to enhance operational efficiency.Ready to Join the World's Leading Trading Hub?
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Setup Process
A streamlined 25-step process to establish your commodity trading business in the Dubai Logistics City
Logistics Operations Consultation
1-2 days
Meet with Dubai Logistics City specialists to discuss your specific logistics business model, cargo types, operational requirements, and supply chain services. This specialized consultation addresses the unique aspects of establishing logistics operations with optimal connectivity to air cargo facilities.
Cargo Profile Assessment
3-5 days
Conduct a detailed analysis of your cargo handling requirements, including types of goods, volumes, storage specifications, handling equipment, and any specialized conditions needed for your specific logistics operations.
Logistics Facility Requirements
5-7 days
Determine precise specifications for your logistics facility including warehouse dimensions, dock configurations, floor loading capacity, ceiling heights, climate control requirements, and specialized storage needs based on your cargo profile.
Site Selection & Facility Tour
2-3 days
Tour available warehouse facilities, distribution centers, and logistics spaces within Dubai Logistics City to identify suitable locations based on your operational requirements, proximity to airside facilities, and connectivity needs.
Customs & Regulatory Briefing
1 day
Receive comprehensive briefing on customs procedures, cargo clearance protocols, documentation requirements, and regulatory compliance specific to your cargo types and logistics operations within the free zone.
Company Name Reservation
3-5 days
Submit your logistics company name for approval and reservation. Names are evaluated for compliance with naming conventions and to prevent confusion with existing logistics operators.
Initial Application Submission
1-2 days
Complete and submit the preliminary application forms with company information, shareholder details, and proposed logistics activities to initiate the formal review process.
Logistics Business Plan Submission
5-7 days
Submit a comprehensive business plan detailing your logistics operations, supply chain services, cargo handling processes, equipment requirements, staffing plan, and growth strategy specific to Dubai Logistics City.
Document Submission
3-5 days
Submit required documentation including corporate documents, shareholder information, logistics certifications, cargo handling procedures, and operational plans through the application portal.
Security & Safety Assessment
5-7 days
Undergo evaluation of your proposed security protocols, cargo safety procedures, and compliance with international supply chain security standards appropriate for your logistics operations.
Application Review
7-10 days
Your complete application undergoes review by Dubai Logistics City authorities who evaluate operational viability, compliance with logistics regulations, and alignment with the free zone's supply chain development objectives.
Initial Approval
3-5 days
Receive initial approval for your logistics business establishment in Dubai Logistics City, confirming eligibility to proceed with the registration process.
Facility Lease Agreement
2-3 days
Sign the lease agreement for your selected warehouse, distribution center, or logistics facility, specifying technical requirements, loading dock access, and any specialized infrastructure needs for your cargo operations.
Fee Payment
1-2 days
Pay the required fees including registration fee, license fee, warehouse lease security deposit, and establishment card fee through the online payment portal.
License Issuance
3-5 days
Receive your Dubai Logistics City business license, officially authorizing your company to operate within the free zone for specified logistics activities and cargo handling operations.
Customs Registration
5-7 days
Register your logistics company with Dubai Customs, establishing your customs account, obtaining required codes, and setting up electronic declaration capabilities for your cargo operations.
Immigration Card Issuance
3-5 days
Obtain your establishment immigration card, enabling your logistics company to sponsor visas for warehouse staff, logistics coordinators, drivers, and administrative personnel.
Warehouse Facility Handover
1-2 days
Receive access to your leased logistics facility, including basic infrastructure, loading docks, and standard warehouse configurations as specified in your lease agreement.
Warehouse Setup & Equipment Installation
15-30 days
Set up your logistics facility with appropriate racking systems, material handling equipment, storage configurations, and operational zones based on your specific cargo handling requirements.
Logistics Technology Implementation
10-15 days
Install and configure warehouse management systems, inventory control software, transportation management platforms, and other logistics technology solutions essential for your operations.
Security Systems Installation
7-10 days
Implement cargo security measures, access control systems, CCTV surveillance, and other security infrastructure required for your logistics operations and supply chain security compliance.
Bank Account Opening
7-10 days
Open corporate bank accounts with local or international banks operating in Dubai, facilitating financial operations for your logistics business including international payments and trade finance.
Staff Visa Processing
15-20 days
Begin processing employment visas for your logistics team, warehouse staff, drivers, and administrative personnel, with consideration for shift-based operations if applicable.
Operational Permits Acquisition
10-15 days
Obtain any specialized operational permits required for your specific logistics activities, such as dangerous goods handling, food storage, pharmaceutical warehousing, or other regulated cargo types.
Commencement of Logistics Operations
1-2 days
Begin receiving, storing, processing, and distributing cargo through your established logistics facility following completion of all setup requirements and operational readiness verification.
Total Timeline
2-4 weeks typical setup
Documentation
Comprehensive support provided
Expert Guidance
End-to-end assistance
Eligibility Requirements & Documentation
Comprehensive requirements and documentation needed for establishing your free zone business
Required Documents
Passport copies
Color copies of passport with minimum 6 months validity for all shareholders, directors, and key logistics personnel. Additional security clearance may be required for certain cargo handling operations.
UAE visa copies
For existing UAE residents - copies of current residence visa with sponsor information clearly indicated.
Emirates ID
For existing UAE residents - clear copies of Emirates ID (front and back).
Passport-size photographs
Recent passport-size photographs with white background (8 copies). Additional copies may be required for airside access credentials and logistics facility access cards.
Logistics business plan
Comprehensive business plan detailing your logistics operations, cargo types handled, supply chain services, operational processes, and growth strategy specific to your logistics business model.
Permitted Activities
Freight Forwarding
Coordination and management of cargo movement across multiple transportation modes including air, sea, and land to optimize routing, timing, and cost-efficiency
Third-Party Logistics (3PL)
Comprehensive outsourced logistics services including transportation management, warehousing, distribution, and supply chain optimization for client organizations
Warehousing & Storage
Operation of specialized storage facilities for various cargo types including general merchandise, temperature-controlled goods, hazardous materials, and high-value items
Air Cargo Handling
Specialized handling of air freight including cargo build-up, breakdown, ULD management, and airside transfer operations in coordination with airline cargo services
Distribution Center Operation
Management of centralized facilities for receiving, storing, order processing, and distributing products across regional markets with optimized inventory positioning
Restricted Activities
Amenities Available in This Free Zone
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Dubai Logistics City, Dubai South, Dubai, United Arab Emirates