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

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

How long does it take for a Russian 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.

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.

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

The typical processing time for a logistics licence at DIFC is 5 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.

Can I open a corporate bank account with my DIFC Logistics licence?

Yes, with a valid trade licence from DIFC, you can open a corporate bank account at any UAE bank. Free zone companies can bank with most major UAE banks including Emirates NBD, ADCB, RAKBank, and Mashreq. IBA assists with introductions and documentation for smooth bank account opening.

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.

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

Yes, your logistics licence from DIFC 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 5,500.

Logistics in Dubai International Financial Centre for Russian 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

As a Russian national looking to establish a Logistics business in Dubai International Financial Centre, the UAE offers one of the most welcoming environments for international entrepreneurs. Russia has strong bilateral trade relations with the UAE, and thousands of Russian professionals have already successfully set up businesses across the emirates.

As a free zone entity regulated under Dubai's commercial laws, your Logistics business will benefit from independent legal framework (common law) and own courts and arbitration centre. The DIFC licensing framework is designed to accommodate both start-ups and established firms, with annual licence fees starting from approximately AED 12,000.

With over two decades of experience in UAE business formation, IBA International provides end-to-end support for your logistics setup in DIFC. Our dedicated advisors handle the paperwork, government liaisons, and compliance requirements, so you can focus on building your business from day one.

Why DIFC for Logistics?

There are several compelling reasons why Dubai International Financial Centre continues to attract logistics entrepreneurs from around the world.

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 Russian nationals specifically, the Dubai government has fostered a business-friendly environment with streamlined processes that cater to the large Russian 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 Russian Nationals

For Russian entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days. For business purposes, a proper residence visa is recommended. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your logistics business in DIFC.

Banking for Russian Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your logistics company in DIFC: Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations. IBA assists with proper documentation and bank selection. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand Russian business structures.

Document Attestation for Russian Nationals

Document attestation for Russian nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in Russia, (2) Attestation by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to logistics businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid Russia passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / Apostille

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Passport copies of all shareholders and directors (valid for at least 6 months)

5Passport-sized photographs with white background

6Professional qualification certificates or approvals from RTA

7Proposed company name (2-3 alternatives)

8Detailed business plan or activity description

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 Russian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from Russia through Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs / 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. Russian nationals can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 90 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Russian entrepreneurs may face additional compliance requirements due to international regulations.

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 Russian 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