What documents does an American national need to start a warehousing 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 warehousing venture.

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

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 Warehousing business in Dubai Internet City?

The UAE introduced a 9% corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (effective June 2023). Free zone companies like those in DIC 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 Warehousing licence from DIC?

Yes, your warehousing licence from DIC entitles you to apply for residence visas. The standard package includes 5 visa(s), with the option to apply for additional visas based on your office space. Each visa costs approximately AED 5,000.

How much does it cost to set up a Warehousing business in Dubai Internet City?

The total setup cost for a Warehousing business in DIC starts from approximately AED 15,000 for the trade licence. Additional costs include visa processing (AED 5,000 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 Warehousing licence in DIC?

The typical processing time for a warehousing licence at DIC is 5 business days, subject to document completeness and any regulatory approvals. Since this is a non-regulated activity, the process is straightforward and typically completed within the standard timeframe.

Is Dubai Internet City good for warehousing start-ups?

DIC is well-suited for both start-ups and established businesses, offering premier it and tech hub and home to global tech companies. Flexible office solutions starting from AED 12,000 per year help keep initial overheads manageable.

Warehousing in Dubai Internet City for American nationals

Free ZoneTransport

Warehousing in DIC

Starting From

AED 15,000

Setup Time

5 Business Days

Visa Quota

5 Visas

Location

Dubai

About Warehousing

Setting up a Warehousing business in Dubai Internet 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 DIC has been streamlined significantly, with most transport licences processed within 5 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 15,000, making it competitively priced for the services included.

At IBA International, we simplify the process of establishing your warehousing business in Dubai Internet 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 DIC for Warehousing?

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

The jurisdiction offers premier it and tech hub, which is particularly valuable for warehousing operations. Additionally, home to global tech companies 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 12,000 per year for a flexi desk, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. The standard licence includes a visa quota of 5 residency visas, with options to increase this number as your team grows. Strategic Media City cluster further enhances the appeal of DIC for warehousing professionals. Furthermore, 100% foreign ownership positions your warehousing business for long-term success in the region. With Dubai continuing to invest in infrastructure and business-friendly regulation, DIC 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.

Premier IT and tech hub

Home to global tech companies

Strategic Media City cluster

100% foreign ownership

Tech ecosystem networking

Visa Requirements for American Nationals

For American entrepreneurs, the visa process works as follows: US citizens can enter the UAE visa-free for 30 days. A residence visa is processed after company formation for long-term business operations. IBA handles the complete immigration procedure — from entry permit to residence visa stamping — so you can focus on launching your warehousing business in DIC.

Banking for American Business Owners

Opening a corporate bank account for your warehousing company in DIC: US nationals face additional FATCA compliance requirements when opening UAE corporate accounts. IBA assists with the additional documentation required. IBA has established relationships with major UAE banks and will personally introduce you to relationship managers who understand American business structures.

Document Attestation for American Nationals

Document attestation for American nationals involves: (1) Notarisation in United States, (2) Attestation by US Department of State / Secretary of State, (3) UAE Embassy attestation in Dubai. IBA provides a complete attestation checklist specific to warehousing businesses to ensure nothing is missed.

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

4Signed application form from DIC authority

5Detailed business plan or activity description

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

7Passport-sized photographs with white background

8Entry stamp or valid UAE visa copy (if applying from within the UAE)

Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (AED)
License Fee	15,000
Visa Package (per visa)	5,000
Flexi Desk	12,000
Shared Office	20,000
Private Office	45,000
Estimated Total (Year 1)	From AED 32,000

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

Setup Timeline

Consultation

Free consultation with IBA to discuss your warehousing business plan and the best DIC 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 warehousing licence application to DIC. IBA handles all paperwork and government interactions.

Trade Licence Issued

Receive your official DIC trade licence within 5–8 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 warehousing 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. DIC allows 100% foreign ownership for all nationalities, including American nationals. No local sponsor or partner is required.

Warehousing 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