How to Start a Logistics or Transport Business in Dubai

Dubai is a gateway to the world. With its central location, modern roads, ports, and free zones, the city is perfectly positioned for logistics and trade. Starting a logistics or transport business in Dubai opens the door to endless opportunities—whether you're moving goods across borders, managing fleets, or offering delivery services to customers and businesses across the UAE.

This guide will walk you through the complete process—step-by-step. From choosing the right business activity and license to buying vehicles, hiring staff, and operating legally—we’ll keep it simple and clear. Plus, with help from Catnyx, you’ll avoid costly mistakes and get expert guidance at every step.

Why Start a Transport or Logistics Business in Dubai?

Dubai has built a global reputation as a logistics hub. With top-rated ports like Jebel Ali, multiple free zones, world-class highways, and proximity to Europe, Asia, and Africa—it’s the go-to place for import/export, freight forwarding, courier services, and supply chain businesses.

Here’s why launching a transport business in Dubai is a smart idea:

• Strategic location connecting global markets

• Excellent road, air, and sea connectivity

• Advanced customs and e-clearance systems

• Government support for logistics innovation

• Demand for freight, warehousing, and last-mile delivery

From small courier startups to large fleet-based logistics companies, Dubai has room for every type of transport operation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Open a Logistics Company in Dubai

1. Define Your Business Model and Services

Start by deciding what kind of logistics or transport company in Dubai you want to build. Your services will decide what kind of license, vehicles, and permits you'll need.

Options include:

• Freight forwarding (local and international)

• Cargo transport via trucks or containers

• Courier or delivery service for businesses or ecommerce

• Cold chain logistics for food or pharmaceuticals

• Warehousing and distribution

• Passenger transport (staff shuttles, ride services, buses)

Each activity requires specific permissions and compliance, so it’s important to define your model early. Catnyx helps you choose the right trade activities to match your business plan.

2. Register Your Company and Trade Name

To officially open a transport business in Dubai, you must register with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a relevant free zone authority, depending on where you plan to operate.

If your services will be within Dubai or the UAE mainland, you must go with a mainland license. For import/export, you may also benefit from a free zone company in areas like:

• Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)

• Dubai South

• Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)

Pick a unique trade name for your company, reserve it, and apply for initial approval. You can use words like “Logistics”, “Transport”, or “Cargo” in the name.

3. Choose the Right Legal Structure

Depending on your goals and partners, you can register as:

• Sole Establishment – if you’re the only owner

• LLC (Limited Liability Company) – ideal for multiple partners

• Branch of a foreign company – if expanding from another country

Catnyx will help you choose the right structure based on ownership, taxation, and market access.

4. Apply for Transport & Logistics License in Dubai

Once you finalize your business activity and legal structure, the next step is applying for a logistics or transport license.

Business activities may include:

• Cargo transport by heavy/medium/light trucks

• Delivery services

• Freight forwarding and shipping

• Customs clearance

• Warehouse and distribution

• Cold storage and transport

Submit your documents to the DED or free zone authority, including:

• Passport copies of owners

• Initial approval certificate

• Trade name certificate

• Business plan

• Lease agreement (Ejari)

License costs start around AED 12,000 to 25,000, depending on the activity and zone.

5. Get Approval from RTA or National Transport Authority

For many transport businesses in Dubai, approval from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is required. This is essential if your company owns vehicles or provides transportation services.

RTA approvals may include:

• Vehicle registration (commercial plates)

• Driver permits and fitness tests

• Route and fleet plan

• Depot and parking approvals (for large fleets)

For international freight or maritime logistics, you may need to register with:

• UAE’s National Transport Authority (NTA)

• Dubai Maritime City Authority (DMCA)

This process can get complex, but Catnyx will handle every permission and submission on your behalf.

6. Rent an Office and Set Up Your Operating Base

To complete your licensing, you must have a physical office space or warehouse registered with Ejari (Dubai’s tenancy registration system).

Depending on your operations, you may need:

• A small office for courier/delivery startups

• A warehouse for logistics and distribution

• A truck depot or parking space for fleet-based companies

The office must be in a commercial zone and approved for your business activity. Catnyx helps you choose compliant spaces at competitive rates.

7. Purchase or Lease Commercial Vehicles

You’ll need to register your company vehicles under commercial categories. These may include:

• Motorcycles for delivery

• Vans or pickup trucks

• Refrigerated trucks

• Heavy vehicles or trailers for cargo transport

Every vehicle must:

• Be registered with commercial plates

• Pass RTA inspections

• Have a valid insurance policy

• Be maintained under safety guidelines

If you’re starting small, you can lease vehicles or work with subcontractors. For larger companies, owning your fleet provides better control.

8. Hire Drivers and Operations Team

You’ll need to hire:

• Certified drivers with UAE commercial licenses

• Operations and dispatch coordinators

• Customer service or logistics managers

• Warehouse workers and loaders (if needed)

All staff must be legally sponsored under your company, pass medical checks, and hold Emirates IDs.

Catnyx assists with:

• Visa processing

• Offer letters and contracts

• Labor law compliance

• Renewals and employee insurance

9. Launch and Market Your Logistics Brand

Once your operations are set up, start promoting your logistics or transport company in Dubai. A strong launch can help you land long-term contracts and gain credibility fast.

Here’s what to do:

• Build a professional website with services and pricing

• Use Google Ads for regional B2B targeting

• List on business directories and trade platforms

• Partner with ecommerce stores or import/export companies

• Offer trial deliveries or discounted contracts

• Join business networking groups like BNI, DCCI

A well-marketed transport business grows through trust, service quality, and consistency. Catnyx can help you build a launch strategy with branding and digital support.

Cost Breakdown for Starting a Transport Company in Dubai

Setup Area	Estimated Cost (AED)
Business License & Registration	12,000 – 25,000
RTA/NTA Approvals & Permits	5,000 – 10,000
Office or Warehouse Rent (Ejari)	20,000 – 80,000 annually
Vehicle Purchase or Lease	50,000 – 300,000+
Vehicle Insurance	5,000 – 15,000 per vehicle
Staff Visa, ID & Insurance	4,000 – 7,000 per employee
Website, CRM & Marketing	10,000 – 25,000

Total estimated setup cost: AED 100,000 to 400,000+, based on scale and fleet size.

Common Challenges in Transport Business Setup

Many new transport companies face:

• Delays in RTA approvals

• Incomplete vehicle documentation

• Non-compliant tenancy contracts

• Employee visa issues

• Budget overruns due to wrong planning

That’s why working with a professional partner like Catnyx is so important. We manage your end-to-end journey and ensure your company is launched smoothly and legally.

Why Choose Catnyx for Transport Company Setup in Dubai

At Catnyx, we specialize in setting up logistics and transport businesses in Dubai. From paperwork to permits, vehicles to visas—we handle it all.

Our services include:

• Business registration (mainland or free zone)

• RTA and NTA coordination

• Office and warehouse space assistance

• Vehicle and fleet registration

• Employee visa and insurance support

• Post-launch business strategy and growth advice

We were honored as the Customer Experience Leader at the Ajman Free Zone Excellence Awards, proving our passion and professionalism in supporting new entrepreneurs like you.

Conclusion

Dubai is the perfect launchpad for your transport or logistics business. With high demand, strong infrastructure, and tax-free profits, the market is wide open for local and international players.

But success starts with the right setup—and that’s where Catnyx comes in. We simplify the complex, guide you through every legal step, and help you build a sustainable business that moves forward fast.

📞 Contact Catnyx today — and let’s get your logistics dream on the road in Dubai.

FAQs – Starting a Transport Business in Dubai

Q1: Can a foreigner start a transport company in Dubai? Yes. 100% foreign ownership is allowed under certain legal structures like mainland LLCs or free zones.

Q2: Is RTA approval mandatory for transport businesses? Yes, if you operate vehicles for cargo or people, RTA approvals are required.

Q3: Do I need my own vehicles to start? No, you can start by leasing or partnering with local fleet owners.

Q4: Can I operate across the UAE? Yes, with a mainland license and proper permits, you can serve all Emirates.

Q5: How long does it take to start operations?

 Usually 3–6 weeks depending on documentation, approvals, and location readiness.