What documents does an American national need to start a logistics business in the UAE?

You will need a valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in United States, attested documents via US Department of State / Secretary of State, and a business plan for your logistics venture.

How long does it take for an American citizen to set up a logistics company in DHCC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 10–13 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 20–30 business days.

How long does it take to get a Logistics licence in DHCC?

The typical processing time for a logistics licence at DHCC is 10 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. As a regulated activity requiring RTA approval, additional time of 1-3 weeks may be required.

What business activities can I include on my DHCC licence?

Your DHCC licence can include logistics as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Most free zones allow multiple activities on a single licence, though some may charge a small fee for additional activities. IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Logistics business in Dubai Healthcare City?

The annual licence renewal for a Logistics DHCC company costs approximately AED 30,000, which covers the trade licence fee. Additional annual costs may include office space rental, visa renewal, and establishment card fees. IBA provides renewal services to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

Can I get a residence visa with my Logistics licence from DHCC?

Yes, your logistics licence from DHCC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 6 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 6,000.

Is Dubai Healthcare City good for logistics start-ups?

DHCC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering dedicated healthcare free zone and regulated clinical environment. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 50,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

Logistics in Dubai Healthcare City for American nationals

Free ZoneTransportRegulated Activity

Logistics in DHCC

Starting From

AED 30,000

Setup Time

10 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Logistics

Setting up a Logistics business in Dubai Healthcare City as an American citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the specific requirements that apply to United States-based entrepreneurs. IBA International has helped hundreds of American business owners navigate the licensing, visa, and banking procedures unique to their nationality.

The licensing process at DHCC has been streamlined significantly, with most transport licences processed within 10 business days. As a free zone entity, you will enjoy 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor. The base licence fee is approximately AED 30,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your logistics business in Dubai Healthcare City. From selecting the right licence type to securing your visa and opening a corporate bank account, our experienced team ensures every detail is handled professionally and efficiently.

Why DHCC for Logistics?

Dubai Healthcare City is widely regarded as one of the UAE's premier destinations for transport businesses, and for good reason.

The jurisdiction offers dedicated healthcare free zone, which is particularly valuable for logistics operations. Additionally, regulated clinical environment ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. As a free zone entity, your business enjoys complete repatriation of profits and capital, with no currency restrictions on transactions. Office solutions start from AED 35,000 per year for a office, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 6 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Medical professionals network further enhances the appeal of DHCC for logistics professionals. Furthermore, international healthcare standards positions your logistics business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DHCC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

For American nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large American business community.

Dedicated healthcare free zone

Regulated clinical environment

Medical professionals network

International healthcare standards

Integrated healthcare ecosystem

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. Once your logistics licence is issued by DHCC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 15–22 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for American Business Owners

US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. For your logistics business in DHCC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving American business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any United States-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

American nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through US Department of State / Secretary of State. This typically includes your passport copy, educational certificates (if applicable for logistics), and any existing business documents. The attestation must then be verified by the UAE Embassy in Abu Dhabi before submission to DHCC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid United States passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by US Department of State / Secretary of State

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport-sized photographs with white background

5Signed application form from DHCC authority

6Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

7Detailed business plan or activity description

8Relevant industry experience documentation

Regulatory Note: Logistics is a regulated activity in the UAE. Additional approval from RTA is required. IBA can guide you through the full regulatory process.

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	30,000
Visa Package (per visa)	6,000
Clinic Space	50,000
Office	35,000
Private Office	60,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 86,000

* Costs are indicative and subject to change. Contact IBA for a personalised quote.

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your logistics business plan and the best DHCC licence options for American nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from United States through US Department of State / Secretary of State and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

Submit the logistics licence application to DHCC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DHCC trade licence within 10–13 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts.

Start Operations

Your logistics business is ready to operate in the UAE. IBA provides ongoing PRO, accounting, and compliance support.

Total estimated time: 10 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DHCC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Logistics in Other Jurisdictions

SHAMS

From AED 6,150

RAKEZ

From AED 7,500

DIFC

From AED 12,000

Abu Dhabi DED

From AED 10,000

JAFZA

From AED 16,000

Dubai DED

From AED 12,000

DMCC

From AED 15,300

IFZA

From AED 11,750