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

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

How long does it take for an Indian citizen to set up a logistics company in JAFZA Offshore?

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 are the tax implications for a Logistics business in JAFZA Offshore?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Offshore entities are generally exempt from UAE corporate tax on income earned outside the UAE. There is no personal income tax in the UAE. VAT at 5% applies to most goods and services.

What business activities can I include on my JAFZA Offshore licence?

Your JAFZA Offshore licence can include logistics as the primary activity, along with related activities that fall under the same category. Mainland licences can include multiple activities, provided they fall within the same licence category (professional, commercial, or industrial). IBA advises on the optimal activity selection for your business needs.

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

Offshore companies in JAFZA Offshore do not include residence visa allocation. If you require a UAE residence visa, consider a free zone or mainland licence instead.

Can a foreigner own 100% of a Logistics company in JAFZA Offshore?

Yes, JAFZA Offshore allows 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local partner or sponsor. This is one of the key advantages of establishing your business in this jurisdiction.

What are the annual renewal costs for a Logistics business in JAFZA Offshore?

The annual licence renewal for a Logistics JAFZA Offshore company costs approximately AED 18,000, 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.

OffshoreTransportRegulated Activity

Logistics in JAFZA Offshore

Starting From

AED 18,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

0 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Logistics

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

The licensing process at JAFZA Offshore has been streamlined significantly, with most transport licences processed within 5 business days. As an offshore entity, you benefit from maximum privacy and asset protection. The base licence fee is approximately AED 18,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your logistics business in JAFZA Offshore. 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 JAFZA Offshore for Logistics?

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

The jurisdiction offers zero tax on all income, which is particularly valuable for logistics operations. Additionally, full capital repatriation ensures that your business remains competitive in the regional market. The offshore structure provides maximum confidentiality and is ideal for holding assets, intellectual property, and international trade operations. Many international businesses choose the offshore route for its streamlined compliance requirements and ability to open multi-currency bank accounts with leading UAE banks. Corporate bank account access further enhances the appeal of JAFZA Offshore for logistics professionals. Furthermore, no physical office required positions your logistics business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, JAFZA Offshore remains an excellent choice for both start-ups and established transport enterprises looking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa region.

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

Zero tax on all income

Full capital repatriation

Corporate bank account access

No physical office required

Asset protection

Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days. For business setup, a proper residence visa is required. Once your logistics licence is issued by JAFZA Offshore, 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 Indian Business Owners

Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks. Many banks have dedicated Indian business desks. For your logistics business in JAFZA Offshore, IBA recommends opening a corporate account with a bank that has experience serving Indian business owners. We will prepare your banking file including the trade licence, shareholder documents, business plan, and any India-specific attestations required.

Document Attestation for Indian Nationals

Indian nationals setting up a business in the UAE will need to attest certain documents through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs). 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 JAFZA Offshore.

Requirements & Documents

1Valid India passport (minimum 6 months validity)

2Documents attested by MEA (Ministry of External Affairs)

3UAE Embassy attestation from Abu Dhabi

4Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

5Notarised power of attorney (if applicable)

6Detailed business plan or activity description

7Completed application form for trade licence

8Proof of residential address (utility bill or bank statement)

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	18,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 18,000

* 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 JAFZA Offshore licence options for Indian nationals.

Document Preparation

Prepare and attest all required documents from India through MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) and the UAE Embassy.

Licence Application

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

Trade Licence Issued

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

Visa Processing

Process your UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and medical fitness. Indian passport holders can obtain a UAE visa on arrival for 14 days.

Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account. Indian nationals typically find it straightforward to open corporate accounts with UAE banks.

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. JAFZA Offshore allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including Indian 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