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

You will need a valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity), passport-sized photos, proof of address in Germany, attested documents via German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille, and a business plan for your logistics venture.

How long does it take for a German citizen to set up a logistics company in DIFC?

The complete process — from initial application to trade licence issuance — typically takes 5–8 business days. Adding visa processing and bank account opening, the total timeline is approximately 15–25 business days.

What documents do I need to set up a Logistics business in DIFC?

The standard documents required include: passport copies of all shareholders, passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, a business plan or activity description, and proof of address. As a regulated activity, you will also need to provide professional qualifications or certifications required by RTA. IBA handles all document preparation and submission on your behalf.

How much does it cost to set up a Logistics business in Dubai International Financial Centre?

The total setup cost for a Logistics business in DIFC starts from approximately AED 12,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,500 per visa), office space, and establishment card fees. IBA provides a detailed cost breakdown during your free consultation.

What business activities can I include on my DIFC licence?

Your DIFC 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.

Is Dubai International Financial Centre good for logistics start-ups?

DIFC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering independent legal framework (common law) and own courts and arbitration centre. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 18,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

What are the tax implications for a Logistics business in Dubai International Financial Centre?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DIFC may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate on qualifying income, provided they meet the substance requirements and do not conduct business with the mainland. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

Logistics in Dubai International Financial Centre for German nationals

Free ZoneTransportRegulated Activity

Logistics in DIFC

Starting From

AED 12,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

6 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Logistics

The UAE continues to attract German entrepreneurs seeking to tap into the Middle Eastern market, and DIFC is one of the most popular jurisdictions for logistics operations. Strong German business community (~15,000), which means you will find an established support network, community events, and nationality-specific resources to help your business thrive.

Operating from Dubai International Financial Centre gives your Logistics business access to Dubai's world-class infrastructure, including modern office facilities such as flexi desk, shared office, private office and excellent connectivity. As a regulated activity, you will need approval from RTA before commencing operations, but IBA's team handles this process seamlessly on your behalf.

IBA International has been helping entrepreneurs set up logistics businesses in Dubai International Financial Centre since 2004. Our team of incorporation specialists will guide you through every step, from initial consultation to licence issuance and bank account opening, ensuring a smooth and efficient setup experience.

Why DIFC for Logistics?

Choosing DIFC for your logistics business comes with a host of strategic advantages that directly impact your bottom line and growth potential.

The jurisdiction offers independent legal framework (common law), which is particularly valuable for logistics operations. Additionally, own courts and arbitration centre 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 18,000 per year for a flexi desk, 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. Premier financial hub further enhances the appeal of DIFC for logistics professionals. Furthermore, zero tax for 50 years positions your logistics business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIFC remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Independent legal framework (common law)

Own courts and arbitration centre

Premier financial hub

Zero tax for 50 years

Access to regional capital markets

Visa Requirements for German Nationals

German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days. For business setup, a residence visa is processed after company incorporation. Once your logistics licence is issued by DIFC, IBA will process your residence visa application, Emirates ID, and medical fitness tests. The entire process typically takes 10–17 business days from licence approval to visa stamping.

Banking for German Business Owners

German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening. Strong German-UAE trade relations facilitate banking processes. For your logistics business in DIFC, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving German business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any Germany-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for German Nationals

German nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille. 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 DIFC.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Germany passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

5Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

6Signed application form from DIFC authority

7Relevant industry experience documentation

8Professional qualification certificates or approvals from RTA

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	12,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,500
Flexi Desk	18,000
Shared Office	35,000
Private Office	80,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 35,500

* 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 DIFC licence options for German nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Germany through German Federal Foreign Office / Apostille and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DIFC trade licence within 5–8 business days.

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. German nationals can enter the UAE visa-free for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. German nationals generally experience smooth corporate bank account opening.

Start Operations

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

Total estimated time: 5 business days. IBA handles the entire process end-to-end so you can focus on your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. DIFC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including German 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