Which format fits
For logistics, zones at ports and airports and dedicated logistics zones are chosen more often. If you need transport within the UAE, you will need an appropriate transport licence and, as a rule, a mainland structure.
What to pay attention to
- Warehousing, transport and forwarding are licensed as separate activities.
- Cargo insurance and liability to clients affect the choice of structure.
- It is better to hold the vehicle fleet in a separate company from the forwarding company.
Structure and asset protection
The forwarding company works with customers, while transport and warehousing are placed in separate companies. The holding company owns the shares and real estate. This way a dispute over one shipment does not affect the rest.
The overall logic of the structure is described on the page “Asset protection and ownership structures”.
Bank account
The bank looks at counterparties and routes, especially for international payments. Prepare contracts with carriers and clients.
More: bank account opening.
Common mistakes
- The licence does not cover the actual types of transport
- Vehicles and warehouses are held in the same company as the customer relationships
Where to start
Tell us about your business. We will review your situation and propose a company format, a jurisdiction and an ownership structure. You can compare the options in the article “Free zone or mainland”, and costs are covered in the article “How much does it cost to open a company in Dubai”.
Regulations and licensing requirements change. Current conditions must be verified before launch. The decision to open an account is made by the bank. Tax consequences depend on your residency.