For freight and logistics operators

The World's Cargo Crosses Here. Run the Paperwork Business From the Crossroads.

Freight forwarding, cargo brokerage, and logistics coordination — 0% on the invoice, world-class infrastructure at your back.

How your income is taxed here

Value-added tax0%

International transportation of goods and passengers is zero-rated — even the domestic leg inside the UAE, when part of a longer international journey. Freight forwarding, cargo brokerage, and logistics coordination for international movements: 0% on the invoice, input VAT on your costs recoverable.

Personal income tax0%

The UAE has none.

Corporate tax0%

Same thresholds as every UAE business — first AED 375,000 of profit at 0%, Small Business Relief under AED 3M revenue (through end of 2026). Logistics connected to designated-zone distribution can fit qualifying structures at scale.

First AED 375,000 of profit at 0% for everyone; Small Business Relief below AED 3M revenue is currently legislated through end of 2026. Conditions apply — keeping you inside them is our job.

Which setup you need

Freight brokerage or forwarding desk

Free zone company with logistics activities — a phone-and-paperwork business, no warehouse required, fully remote setup.

Physical operations later

Designated-zone entity with warehouse options near port and airport infrastructure.

Agency for foreign carriers

Commission and agency income from foreign principals are exported services — zero-rated.

Common questions for this profile

Do I need my own trucks or warehouse?

No. Brokerage and forwarding coordination are licensed service activities — assets come later, if ever.

My clients are shipping lines and importers abroad — how is that taxed?

Services to foreign clients are zero-rated exports. International transport services are zero-rated by their own rule. Either way: 0% on the invoice.

Why the UAE instead of Singapore or Rotterdam?

Same tier of infrastructure — with 0% personal tax, dollar-pegged banking, and setup costs a fraction of either. Plus geography: the UAE sits between the factories of Asia and the markets of Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Find out what your structure should look like

Answer 5 questions. Get a personalized recommendation — which setup, which zone, what it costs — before you spend anything.

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