Industrial License
Industrial License in Dubai - Apply with Expert Guidance
Industrial License In Dubai, UAE
Any business in Dubai involved in industrial or manufacturing activities requires an industrial license. Dubai requires an industrial license when a company is involved in converting raw materials into manufactured products, materials and commodities of all kinds and types to sell them for profit.
Industrial Company Formation in Dubai: Permitted Activities
Factories involved in manufacturing-related activities must have an industrial license. Examples include:
- Canning & freezing of fish
- Stone processing
- Manufacturing of batteries
- Manufacturing of pharmacological products
- Dog food manufacturing
- Water bottling
- Tyre manufacturing
- Manufacturing of tobacco products
- Manufacturing of medical equipment
Not sure if your activity qualifies?
Share your activity details and we’ll confirm whether an industrial license is required and what approvals apply.
Industrial Licence in Dubai: Issuance and Approvals
The industrial license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the Government of Dubai. To get such a license, businesses must obtain permissions from relevant government departments. The departments required vary depending on the business activities.
Before granting an application, applicants must submit a detailed business plan including the objectives, technical specifications, factory plans, equipment to be installed, projected number of employees, accommodation plan, and ownership/leadership details.
Upon being granted an industrial license, the company must begin constructing its factory and facilities within six months of issuance. Once complete, it must apply for permission with the DED to start operations.
Once operating, the company must follow governing authorities’ regulations — including hiring qualified employees, compliance with Emiratisation requirements, safety precautions, accurate record keeping, and conducting only approved activities. If the company wishes to expand activities, it must obtain additional approvals to avoid the risk of license cancellation.
- DED coordination + submission guidance
- Approval pathway clarity (based on activity)
- Business plan guidance (structure + required points)
Advantages of Industrial Company Formation in the UAE
Dubai and the UAE offer strong benefits for industrial and manufacturing businesses:
- Ease of doing business in the UAE
- Access to thriving logistics and trading hubs
- Discounted rates for electricity, water, and essential utilities
- World-class banking and financial infrastructure
- A global community of potential workforce
- Government support for enforcement of contracts
Additional Incentives (Case-by-Case)
In some circumstances, governments may offer special benefits — such as prioritised procurement, preferential loans, subsidised land, fee waivers, or R&D grants (depending on the value your operations add to the economy).
Steps Involved in Obtaining an Industrial Licence in Dubai
Basic steps (final steps may vary depending on your industrial activity and approvals required).
Initial Approval
Initial approval from the relevant authority based on your activity.
Apply with DED
Application for an industrial license with Dubai DED.
Government Approvals
Approvals from relevant departments (e.g., Ministry of Health, Chamber of Commerce, etc.).
Start Operations
Factory setup within required timelines and permission to start operations after completion.