Dubai continues to attract entrepreneurs from around the world, With its world-class infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and strategic position as a global trade hub, Dubai continues to attract top business talent from across the world. Container rental businesses are among the enterprises steadily rising in popularity in the UAE. Over recent years, the industry has diversified a lot, enabling entrepreneurs to tap into Dubai’s expanding commercial ecosystem.
In this guide we will help you navigate the entire setup process for starting a container rental business in Dubai. From choosing your setup location and securing your trade license to meeting regulatory requirements and finding the right operational space.
Why start a container rental business in Dubai?
There are several reasons why it makes sense to start a container rental business in Dubai. This includes sporting a reputation as one of the leading trade hubs in the world and an increased demand for flexible infrastructure. While storage containers were once utilized predominantly for shipping and storage, it is now increasingly used as modular office spaces, on construction sites, as pop-up shops, and even for event spaces. Thanks to the role Dubai plays as a commercial gateway between the East and West, many opportunities exist for entrepreneurs to establish successful container rental businesses in Dubai.
How to start a container rental business in Dubai
If you are planning to start a container rental business in Dubai you have to prepare yourself for a lot of planning and hard work. It is important to remain compliant with the legal and licensing requirements of the UAE. Start by choosing your business activity from the list provided by the DED (or relevant freezone authority) and also decide on the legal structure of your new business. Limited liability companies (LLCs) and sole proprietorships are both popular options.
Mainland vs free zone setup: What’s best for container rental business?
The location of your container rental business is a very important consideration. The first step in choosing where to set up your business, revolved around deciding between the mainland or one of Dubai’s free zones. Weigh up the benefits and disadvantages of both before making your decision.
Mainland: A good choice if you are planning to target the local market and government contracts. You will be able to operate directly in the UAE without any restrictions.
Free zones: If you are planning to provide storage services connected to trade hubs and ports or focus on logistics, setting up in a free zone could be the best option for you. You can expect to enjoy benefits such as full foreign ownership tax exemptions if establishing your business in a free zone such as Dubai Industrial City or JAFZA.
Where you choose to set up your business depends on various things such as your target market, the type of containers you want to rent, and the scope of your operations.
Steps to register your container rental business in Dubai
There are a number of steps you have to follow to help ensure that your business set up process is as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
Step 1: Secure your trade name
Select a name that suits your business and also aligns with all the naming guidelines in the UAE. Once you have chosen your name, submit it to the DED or applicable free zone authority for approval.
Step 2: Get initial approval from the DED or free zone
You need preliminary approval from the relevant authority because you can continue with setting up your business. This approval confirms that your proposed business activity is allowed and that you can proceed with the other setup steps.
Step 3: Draft and notarize the MOA
You will require a Memorandum of Association (MOA) if you decide to set up your business as an LLC. The MOA outlines your scope of business and has to be notarized through a certified Dubai notary public.
Step 4: Rent a suitable space
A container rental business needs to be operated from a suitable space in a logistics zone, industrial park, or business hub that is located near major roads and ports. Make sure that your lease is registered either with Ejari (when establishing on mainland) or the correct free zone entities.
Step 5: Submit your final documents and get your trade license
After you have compiled all the necessary documentation, you need to submit it to receive your trade license that will allow you to legally conduct business in Dubai. The license will either be issued by the DED or a free zone authority.
Office, yard, or storage space requirements
A suitable, physical space is not negotiable when starting a container rental business. Choose a space that ticks all the boxes with regards to storage, cleaning and maintenance, and ease of access. There are various industrial zones like Dubai Industrial City, Al Quoz, and Jebel Ali that are strategically located near major routes and also offer affordable lease solutions. Some free zones, including Dubai Logistics City and JAFZA, are very popular among entrepreneurs who want to benefit from integrated warehouse and customs amenities.
When considering your options, look for a space that is fenced and gated, well-lit and compliant with the safety regulations set out by the Dubai Municipality.
Customs, transport, and regulatory approvals
You will need special approvals if you plan to import or modify your containers.
Import code: If you want to import containers, you have to obtain an import code from Dubai Customs.
Transport permits: Vehicle and road permits from the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) are needed if your business operations include moving containers across Dubai or between emirates.
Industrial or logistics approvals: You may require additional approvals that are zone-specific when operating within DMCC, JAFZA, or Dubai South.
Safety and modification standards: If you are converting containers into offices or retail spaces, make sure to follow the Dubai Municipality guidelines for fire safety, ventilation, and structural integrity.
Meeting these requirements helps keep operations running smoothly. It also builds trust with clients who value reliability and compliance.
Cost of starting a container rental company in Dubai
The overall cost of starting a container rental business in Dubai depends on various things. This includes its location, size, and legal structure. Typically, set up costs anywhere from AED 120,000 to AED 200,000. Here is a breakdown of the most common expenses:
- Business license fees: AED 10,000 – AED 15,000 (depending on whether you choose to set up in mainland or free zone)
- Warehouse or yard rental: AED 25,000 – AED 60,000 (yearly)
- Visa and labour card costs: AED 3,000 – AED 7,000 per employee
- Vehicle or truck procurement: AED 70,000 – AED 150,000 for used or new trucks (if required)
- Insurance: AED 5,000 – AED 10,000 yearly
- Equipment and setup costs: AED 20,000 – AED 30,000 tools and safety gear etc.
Documents required to launch your container leasing business
Here is a list of the most common documents you need when starting your container rental business:
- Copies of the passports of all owners and/or shareholders
- Copy of Emirates ID (where applicable)
- Certificate of trade name reservation
- Initial approval certificate from DED or free zone authority
- Memorandum of Association (for LLCs)
- Lease agreement or Ejari registration
- External approvals (if required for transport or customs activities)
- Bank account opening documents
- Visa application documents (if you plan to sponsor staff)
Make sure you have printed and digital copies of all the necessary documents to help ensure that the registration process is as quick and easy as possible.
About Set Hub
Many wonderful opportunities exist for entrepreneurs wanting to start a container rental business in Dubai. With more than a decade of experience providing expert business solutions to more than 25,000 clients, the Set Hub team is equipped to help you navigate every step of the business setup in Dubai process. Whether you are a first-time business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to expand into the UAE market, we can provide you with the necessary support to launch a compliant and successful container rental business.