Dubai’s industrial sector is growing fast, driven by innovation, infrastructure, and government support. Among the licenses offered to manufacturers and producers, the DMCC National Industrial License in Dubai, UAE stands out as a special category. It combines the benefits of free zone business setup with UAE mainland privileges, making it a preferred choice for industrial ventures involving UAE nationals.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this license—what it is, who it’s for, what it allows, and how to obtain it. If you’re exploring manufacturing, assembling, or processing operations in Dubai, the National Industrial License is worth serious consideration.
What Is a DMCC National Industrial License?
A DMCC National Industrial License is a specialized license that permits light manufacturing, assembling, packaging, and processing activities within the DMCC Free Zone, with the added benefit of being recognized by the UAE Ministry of Economy.
This license is issued jointly by DMCC and the Ministry of Economy, and to qualify for it, at least 51% of the company must be owned by a UAE national. It is often used by joint ventures between local Emiratis and foreign partners, especially those in sectors like food production, consumer goods, health supplements, packaging, and light equipment assembly.
Who Should Apply for the National Industrial License in DMCC?
This license is designed for businesses that meet two conditions:
- They are involved in industrial activities—mainly light manufacturing or processing.
- A UAE national owns at least 51% of the company.
Ideal Candidates for This License Include:
- Joint ventures between foreign investors and local UAE partners
- UAE-owned companies looking to expand into manufacturing
- International manufacturers forming strategic partnerships in the UAE
- Local businesses aiming to get government procurement advantages or customs exemptions
If your business involves transforming raw or semi-finished materials into final products for sale, this license can give you both free zone flexibility and local recognition.
Key Benefits of the DMCC National Industrial License
Choosing a National Industrial License through DMCC offers unique advantages you won’t find in regular free zone or mainland licenses.
100% Import and Export Duty Exemption
Since it’s registered under the UAE Ministry of Economy, products manufactured under this license can enjoy duty-free trade within the GCC region and other countries with trade agreements.
Access to Government Contracts and Tenders
Being partially UAE-owned makes your business eligible for government and semi-government contracts, which are often restricted to companies with local participation.
Recognition as a UAE National Entity
Your company will be recognized as a national industrial entity, giving you advantages in branding, compliance, and investor confidence.
Location Inside DMCC Free Zone
You still enjoy 0% corporate tax, 100% repatriation of profits, no currency restrictions, and access to DMCC’s modern infrastructure and business ecosystem.
Competitive Advantage in Local Market
You’ll have the ability to sell more easily in the local UAE market, often at better margins, especially when compared to fully foreign-owned free zone companies.
Activities Allowed Under a DMCC National Industrial License
The scope of permitted activities is broad, covering most light manufacturing and production processes.
Common Activities Include:
- Food and Beverage Processing – blending, bottling, packaging
- Cosmetic and Health Products – creams, supplements, personal care items
- Textiles and Apparel – stitching, printing, labeling, final finishing
- Packaging Materials – boxes, containers, printed wraps
- Electronics Assembly – basic device assembly, circuit preparation
- Jewelry and Precious Metals – light machining, polishing, and branding
Each activity must be clearly defined and approved during the application process.
Requirements to Apply for a National Industrial License
To qualify for this license, your business must meet specific conditions set by DMCC and the Ministry of Economy.
Ownership Requirement
- Minimum 51% ownership by a UAE national
- Foreign investors can hold up to 49% of the company
Physical Facility Requirement
- You must lease an industrial unit or warehouse within DMCC
- The facility must be fit for manufacturing, with safety, ventilation, and layout approved by DMCC authorities
Regulatory Compliance
- You must comply with health, safety, fire, and environmental standards
- Certain industries may require external approvals from authorities such as Dubai Municipality or Ministry of Health
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a DMCC National Industrial License
Here’s how to move through the application and setup process:
Step 1 – Choose Your Industrial Activity
Decide on the specific manufacturing activity you’ll perform. You must select from DMCC’s approved list.
Step 2 – Secure a Local UAE Partner
Your business must have a UAE national owning at least 51%. The structure can be:
- Joint Venture Agreement
- Partnership
- Shareholding split in an LLC
Step 3 – Reserve Your Company Name
Choose a name that follows DMCC and UAE naming guidelines—no restricted words, and the name must be available for registration.
Step 4 – Select and Lease a Warehouse or Industrial Unit
DMCC offers state-of-the-art industrial spaces for manufacturing businesses. Choose one that fits your budget, space needs, and visa requirements.
Step 5 – Submit the Required Documents
Documents generally include:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- UAE national’s Emirates ID
- Business plan detailing industrial activity
- Lease agreement
- No Objection Certificates (if needed)
- Technical layout of the facility
- Preliminary approvals from relevant authorities
Step 6 – Get Initial Approval
Once reviewed, DMCC provides an initial clearance, confirming your eligibility.
Step 7 – Ministry of Economy Approval
Your license will be forwarded for approval to the UAE Ministry of Economy, since it qualifies as a national industrial establishment.
Step 8 – Finalize Payment and Sign Agreements
After approvals, pay your license fee, registration charges, and rental. Sign all incorporation and shareholder agreements.
Step 9 – License Issuance
Upon successful payment and document verification, DMCC issues:
- National Industrial License
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Share Certificates
- Establishment Card for visa processing
Visa and Staffing Options for National Industrial Companies
Your license allows you to apply for UAE residence visas for business owners, staff, technicians, and skilled labor.
Visa Quota
Your quota depends on the size of your warehouse and the type of activity. Larger units allow for more visas.
Employment Eligibility
You can hire:
- Production line staff
- Machine operators
- Logistics and warehouse managers
- Supervisors
- Office and admin personnel
Each visa is valid for 2 years and renewable.
Office and Facility Requirements
Your industrial operation must be housed in a facility that meets DMCC’s standards.
Options Include:
- Pre-approved industrial units
- Custom-built warehouse spaces
- Production halls with built-in ventilation, power, and drainage
Technical Layouts
You must provide detailed facility plans for approval, including:
- Machine placement
- Storage areas
- Safety equipment
- Fire exits and signage
DMCC inspects the premises before license issuance.
Annual Compliance and Renewals
To maintain your license, your company must meet certain ongoing requirements.
License Renewal
Your license must be renewed annually, including your lease, establishment card, and other legal documents.
Audit and Reporting
- Submit audited financial statements yearly
- Maintain accurate records of production, sales, and inventory
Health & Safety Checks
You must undergo periodic inspections to ensure compliance with DMCC’s industrial regulations.
Cost of DMCC National Industrial License
Costs will depend on:
- Warehouse size
- Number of visas
- Business activity
- External approvals
Typical Cost Breakdown:
- License Fee: From AED 15,000 – AED 20,000
- Registration Fee: AED 9,000
- Industrial Facility Lease: From AED 30,000 – AED 100,000+ annually
- Visa Fee: AED 3,500 – AED 5,000 per visa
- Establishment Card: AED 1,800
- Audit and compliance services: Variable
Why Choose DMCC for National Industrial Licensing?
There are several reasons why DMCC is preferred for national industrial operations:
Government-Recognized and Free Zone Hybrid
You get the best of both worlds—DMCC’s infrastructure and free zone benefits, along with UAE government industrial recognition.
Trusted by Thousands of Businesses
DMCC is home to over 22,000 companies, including manufacturers, exporters, and service providers.
Efficient, Transparent Process
Licensing, document processing, visa applications, and renewals are streamlined through digital systems.
Conclusion
The DMCC National Industrial License in Dubai, UAE is a powerful option for companies looking to operate in the manufacturing space while gaining national recognition and free zone benefits. Whether you’re a UAE national entering the industrial sector or a foreign investor partnering locally, this license provides the perfect structure, reputation, and flexibility.
If you’re ready to take the next step, Incorpyfy is here to guide you. As a trusted Business Setup Company in Dubai, UAE, with a dedicated team that helps you obtain your DMCC license, structure your business, secure a UAE national partner, and manage your entire company formation journey—smoothly and professionally.
FAQs
What is the minimum UAE ownership required for the national license?
A minimum of 51% UAE national ownership is required to qualify for the National Industrial License.
Can I export products duty-free with this license?
Yes. Being recognized by the Ministry of Economy allows you to enjoy customs duty exemptions in certain regions.
Do I need a physical facility to apply?
Yes. Leasing an industrial unit or warehouse within DMCC is mandatory.
Can foreign companies apply directly for this license?
Foreign companies must partner with a UAE national shareholder to qualify.
Are there specific industries that qualify for this license?
Yes. It’s suitable for light manufacturing, food processing, electronics, packaging, and similar activities.
What documents are required?
Documents include shareholder IDs, business plan, lease agreement, MOA, and technical facility layouts.
Is the license renewable?
Yes, it must be renewed annually, including financial audit submission and facility inspections.
