The logistics sector in the UAE is witnessing a renewed enthusiasm on the back of several expansion projects and new investments. Setting up a logistics company in the UAE makes business sense due to the expectations of strong growth in the country’s air, and sea freight markets. The free zones are the best option of business setup in the UAE for foreign investors who eye lucrative opportunities in the logistics sector.
Since the UAE has more than 40 free zones, the investors will be confused about choosing an ideal zone to form a company. Choosing the right free zone in the UAE may appear to be a challenging task as each of them boasts of attractive benefits such as proximity to ports, modern warehouses, and excellent connectivity through sea, air & land. In this article, we pick for you the top 5 free zones that are best for starting a logistics company in the UAE.
1. SAIF Zone, Sharjah
Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) mainly caters to the companies that depend on air transportation. The proximity to Sharjah International Airport makes the movement of air cargo smooth for businesses that focus on imports and reexports. Global business centres such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are within the safe reach of the SAIF zone, which is an additional benefit. The free zone is home to around 8,000 companies, and most of them are operated by Chinese investors. Company formation in SAIF Zone comes with the benefits of office spaces, warehouses, large plots of land, and labour accommodation etc.
2. Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah
Hamriyah Free Zone is regarded as the UAE’s second-largest industrial free zone and is well-positioned to accommodate businesses that require large-scale transportation. HFZ caters to such heavy-duty logistics requirements due to its easy access to the Arabian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. The strategic location of HFZ makes it the most appropriate free zones in the UAE for the berthing of ocean-going cargo ships. In terms of land connectivity, the free zone is connected to all other Emirates in the country via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road as well as the neighbouring countries, Oman and Bahrain.
3. Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai
When it comes to company formation in Dubai, Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is generally regarded as the top choice for foreign investors. JAFZA makes use of the UAE’s multi-modal infrastructure and provides easy access to the markets in the Middle East Region. By initiating the process of company formation in JAFZA, the logistics companies can access the free zone’s unique Sea-Land-Air logistics corridor within a single custom bonded area. The corridor facilitates the speedy movement of cargo from sea to air, sans the need for any customs checks on the way. Located in Jebel Ali Port, JAFZA’s logistics sector hosts more than 330 companies from 27 countries.
4. KIZAD, Abu Dhabi
KIZAD is rated along with the world’s top port-integrated industrial zones and holds the reputation of being a leading hub for the logistics sector. The free zones are strategically located near Khalifa Port, which is one of the world’s most advanced seaports with world-class infrastructure. KIZAD’s master plan provides proximity to suppliers, customers and other business efficiencies, which enables the logistics companies long-term benefits.
5. Dubai South Free Zone, Dubai
A strategic location and a dedicated logistics district make the business setup in Dubai South a perfect choice for logistics companies. Exploiting Dubai’s geographical advantages, the free zone has developed over the years to become the supply chain capital for international markets. Moreover, Dubai South is home to the Al Maktoum International Airport and hosts mega-events, including the upcoming Expo 2020. The free zone provides unparalleled access to seaports, airports and major roads. Dubai South provides the investors with ready-to-occupy solutions for requirements such as office space, manufacturing facility, warehousing, logistics and distribution.
Start With the Assistance of Business Setup Consultants in Dubai
The UAE’s logistics sector is poised for further growth on account of the fresh investments and expansion projects. To make use of the prevailing business opportunities, foreign investors should consider the best free zones for company formation in the UAE. In terms of facilities, connectivity, 100% ownership and modern infrastructure, the free zones are the best option for business setup in the UAE. For easily getting a logistics license from the free zones, foreign investors may approach the best business setup consultants in Dubai, such as Jitendra Business Consultants (JBC). JBC offers advice on selecting the right free zones and assistance in getting the company incorporated in the UAE. The intricacies of licensing procedure and documentation will be carried out by JBC’s highly qualified business setup consultants.