How to Apply for a Manufacturing License in UAE, 2025
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established itself as a global hub for innovation, logistics, and industrial production. With its investor-friendly policies, world-class infrastructure, and strong economic stability, the UAE continues to attract entrepreneurs who want to start manufacturing businesses.
If you are planning to set up an industrial or production facility, understanding how to apply for a manufacturing license in UAE is your first and most important step. This license allows you to legally engage in manufacturing, assembling, or processing activities within the Emirates.
At Tianyi Consulting, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs and investors with manufacturing license applications in UAE — from documentation to approvals and complete setup.
🔹 What is a Manufacturing License in UAE?
A manufacturing license in UAE (also known as an industrial license) is an official permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the respective Free Zone Authority that allows a company to engage in industrial and production-related activities.
It covers activities such as:
- Assembling products
- Processing raw materials
- Packaging and labeling goods
- Fabrication and mechanical manufacturing
The manufacturing license in UAE ensures compliance with environmental, health, and safety standards while granting legal rights to operate a manufacturing business.
🔹 Why Get a Manufacturing License in UAE?
The UAE government’s Operation 300bn strategy aims to transform the country into a leading global industrial hub by 2031. Obtaining a manufacturing license UAE allows investors to become part of this thriving ecosystem and enjoy benefits such as:
✅ 100% foreign ownership in most Free Zones
✅ Access to advanced infrastructure and logistics
✅ Tax exemptions and import/export benefits
✅ Support from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT)
✅ Availability of industrial land and warehouses
For investors wondering how to start a manufacturing company in the UAE, these benefits make the Emirates one of the most promising destinations in the world.
🔹 How to Apply for a Manufacturing License in UAE
Applying for a manufacturing license UAE involves several stages, including approvals from economic and industrial authorities. Here’s a complete step-by-step breakdown:
1️⃣ Choose Your Business Activity
Define the specific type of manufacturing you intend to conduct — for example, food processing, machinery production, packaging, or electronics assembly. The nature of the activity determines your license category.
2️⃣ Choose the Jurisdiction
You can establish your manufacturing company either on the mainland (DED) or in a Free Zone such as JAFZA, RAKEZ, or KEZAD.
- Mainland: Ideal for local and international trade.
- Free Zone: Best for export-oriented industries with 100% foreign ownership.
3️⃣ Prepare the Necessary Documents
Before submitting your application, gather the following documents:
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Feasibility study and project plan
- Lease agreement or property ownership documents
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Environmental and technical approvals
4️⃣ Get Initial Approvals
Submit your application to the DED or Free Zone Authority for initial review. The approval includes inspection of your facility, production plan, and environmental impact compliance.
5️⃣ Obtain MoIAT Approval
You’ll need to register your manufacturing activity with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT). The MoIAT Certificate confirms that your operations comply with UAE industrial regulations.
6️⃣ Finalize the License
Once all approvals are complete, pay the manufacturing license fees UAE and receive your official license. You can then start operations, hire staff, and open a corporate bank account.
At Tianyi Consulting, we manage each of these steps to ensure your manufacturing license UAE is issued quickly and efficiently.
🔹 How Much Does a Manufacturing License Cost in UAE?
One of the most common questions investors ask is: How much does a manufacturing license cost in UAE?
The manufacturing license cost in UAE depends on several factors, including business activity, location, and production scale. On average, the manufacturing license fees in UAE range between AED 25,000 and AED 60,000.
This amount covers government approvals, inspection fees, and registration charges. Additional costs may include:
- Industrial land or warehouse lease
- Labor visa and Emirates ID fees
- Environmental and safety permits
At Tianyi Consulting, we provide a transparent estimate of your manufacturing license cost in UAE — ensuring there are no hidden fees.
🔹 How to Get a Manufacturing Licence Online in UAE
Thanks to digital transformation, the UAE has made it easy for investors to get a manufacturing licence online in UAE through platforms like Invest in Dubai, RAKEZ Portal, and DED eServices.
Here’s how it works:
- Visit the relevant portal (DED or Free Zone).
- Submit your application and required documents.
- Pay applicable manufacturing license fees in UAE.
- Receive digital approvals and certificate issuance.
Tianyi Consulting assists clients in managing the full online manufacturing license process — saving time, paperwork, and potential errors.
🔹 How to Start a Manufacturing Company in the UAE
Starting a manufacturing company in UAE involves more than just getting a license. You must plan your business model, investment structure, and operational needs.
Key Steps:
✅ Identify your niche industry (textiles, food, metals, etc.)
✅ Choose your location — Mainland or Free Zone
✅ Register your trade name and obtain approvals
✅ Secure industrial space for your operations
✅ Get your manufacturing license in UAE
✅ Hire staff and set up machinery
Our experts at Tianyi Consulting provide comprehensive business setup solutions — from company registration to visa and bank account setup — ensuring your business is operational from day one.
🔹 How to Get an Industrial License in the UAE
An industrial license in UAE is another term for a license in UAE, required for businesses engaged in transforming raw materials into finished products.
The process involves:
- Submitting a detailed project report
- Getting environmental and civil defense approvals
- Applying for an MoIAT Certificate
- Paying the industrial license fees in UAE
- Receiving your final license
Tian Yi Consulting assists in all aspects of obtaining your industrial license in UAE, including factory setup, documentation, and compliance with local laws.
🔹 Why Choose Tianyi Consulting?
Tianyi Consulting is a trusted business setup and consulting firm in Dubai, offering expert support for manufacturing and industrial business formation across the UAE.
We provide:
✅ Full guidance on how to apply for a manufacturing license in UAE
✅ Accurate cost and fee breakdowns
✅ Assistance with MoIAT Certificate and environmental approvals
✅ Legal, visa, and bank account setup services
✅ Tailored solutions for both Free Zone and Mainland setups
When you partner with Tianyi Consulting, you can focus on your business while we handle the legalities and procedures.
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🚀 Start Your Manufacturing Journey in the UAE Today
The UAE’s industrial sector is growing rapidly — and now is the best time to invest. By obtaining your manufacturing license in UAE, you can join a thriving, innovation-driven economy.
Let Tianyi Consulting handle the process for you — from license application to business setup and compliance.