The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as the dominant economic hub of the Middle East, with Dubai at the forefront of transforming the nation into one of the top global commercial and investment destinations. Starting a transport business with a transport company license in Dubai can be incredibly profitable if you adhere to all government guidelines and initiate your company formation through Unicorn Global Solutions.

Advantages of Starting a Transport Business in Dubai
There are numerous benefits to setting up a transport company in Dubai:
Strategic Location
Dubai serves as a crucial business hub with convenient access to Europe, acting as a meeting point between East and West.
Leading-Edge Infrastructure
Dubai boasts world-class air, road, and maritime infrastructure. Its extensive road network, major sea ports, international shipping and logistics assets, airports, and high-quality basic services enhance its appeal to international investors.
Business-Friendly Environment
The UAE offers significant tax advantages for foreigners and foreign-owned businesses. Recent policy changes allow full foreign ownership of enterprises and have relaxed immigration regulations, making Dubai a prime location for foreign investment and entrepreneurship.
No Minimum Capital Investment
Starting a business in Dubai, especially in the transportation sector, does not require minimum capital investment. The government supports SMEs through specialized centers, business accelerators, incubators, and free zones dedicated to specific industries.
Activities Permitted under the Transport Company License in Dubai
Dubai permits three primary types of transport services:
- Freight Companies
- Companies that transport and store specific goods
- Courier Companies
You can select from a variety of service activities based on your business needs:
– Cargo transport by heavy or light trucks
– Water transport service
– Rental and transport of heavy machinery
– Bus rental transport services
– Car rental service
– Passenger transport (taxi services and tour buses)
– Motorcycles rental service
– Special rental vehicles – trucks and related transport
– Vehicle towing services and transport
– Refrigerated transport
– Specialist transportation services (e.g., gas tanks, money, and valuables transport)
– Bicycle rental service
– Petroleum transport
Here are the essential steps to launch a transport company in Dubai:
- Choose Your Trading Strategy and Organizational Structure: Select the best type of transport business to run in the Mainland or the Free zone.
- Choosing a Business Name and Registering It: Choose an appropriate name for your company.
- Prepare Your Company Documents: Notarize the company’s Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) with the DED (Department of Economic Development in Dubai).
- Application for a Business Licence: Submit a commercial license application before applying for a transportation license. The National Transport Authority provides the transport company license, while the Dubai Department of Economic Development handles the commercial license application process.
- Obtain the License and Pay the Fees: The National Transport Authority will issue your business license.
- Pick a Location for Your Company: Secure a lease agreement for the chosen office, retail, or warehouse space.
- Create a Bank Account: Open a corporate bank account for business transactions in the UAE.
Considerations for Starting a Transport Business in Dubai
– Obtain a transport license from the UAE National Transport Authority.
– Ensure safety gear installation in transport vehicles and meet all technical requirements.
– Only a UAE national can apply for a transport license.
– Renew the transport license every three months for an additional 30 days.
– Passenger vehicles must pay AED 100 + AED 5 for each passenger seat.
– Commercial goods vehicles must pay AED 100 + AED 10 for each tonne of the vehicle’s gross weight.
Required Documents for Setting Up a Transport Company in Dubai
– Passport copies of stakeholders
– Proof of trade name reservation
– Personal data sheets of all managers and stakeholders
– Proof of initial activity approval
– Attested and notarized power of attorney
– Copy of the lease for the company’s physical address
– Notarized and valid MOA & AOA
– Trade license payment receipt
Start Your Transport Services in Dubai – Choose Unicorn Global Solutions for Company Incorporation
The cost of obtaining a transportation business license varies based on your location, business type, organization size, chosen activities, government charges, and operational fees. Starting a transport company in Dubai is undeniably profitable. For expert advice on starting your transport business in Dubai, contact Unicorn Global Solutions, a premier business setup consultant in Dubai. Text us on WhatsApp or call us today.