Dubai’s booming e-commerce and food industries have made delivery businesses one of the most profitable ventures today. From parcels and groceries to meals and medicines, people want everything at their doorstep. If you’ve ever thought about starting a delivery service in Dubai, now is the best time to do it.
Looking to get started quickly? Connect with Raes Associates for a smooth, end-to-end setup process.
Why Delivery Services Are in High Demand in Dubai
The demand for delivery services in Dubai has exploded in the last few years. With more people shopping online and relying on food delivery apps, businesses are constantly looking for reliable delivery partners.
The rise of e-commerce, food delivery companies, and courier services has opened endless opportunities for entrepreneurs. From bike delivery to same-day courier services, Dubai’s market offers space for both small and large players.
If you want to explore related opportunities, check out our post on E-commerce for Handmade Products in UAE , it’s a great example of how digital and delivery models are merging in the UAE.
Understanding the Delivery Business Model in Dubai
Before jumping in, you’ll need to decide what kind of delivery business you want to start
- Food Delivery Service: Partner with restaurants or run your own kitchen delivery.
- Courier & Parcel Delivery: Offer same-day or scheduled package deliveries.
- Grocery & Medicine Delivery: Focus on local deliveries for essential goods.
- Bike Delivery Service: Low-cost, high-demand option perfect for small startups.
Each model has its own licensing requirements, costs, and target market, but all can be highly profitable when set up right.
Benefits of Starting a Delivery Company in Dubai
Starting a delivery company in Dubai comes with several advantages:
- It’s a multi-billion-dirham industry that continues to grow every year.
- Dubai allows delivery startups in both Mainland and Free Zones.
- Easy registration process with minimal paperwork.
- You can start small, low investment and manageable running costs.
- Huge opportunities in food, parcel, and e-commerce delivery sectors.
- High demand from restaurants, online stores, and boutiques for reliable delivery partners.
Thinking about starting your own delivery service? Contact Raes Associates today for expert assistance in business setup, licensing, and registration.
License and Legal Requirements for Delivery Business Setup
To start your delivery or courier company, you’ll need to obtain a delivery service license in Dubai. Here’s how the process generally works:
- Choose Your Business Structure – You can register as an LLC or sole establishment.
- Select Jurisdiction – Mainland or Free Zone (both offer benefits depending on your service type).
- Apply for License – Apply through the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland or a Free Zone authority if operating online.
- Vehicle & Rider Approvals – For bike or car delivery, you’ll need permits from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
- Insurance & Safety Compliance – Ensure your vehicles and drivers meet Dubai’s road and safety regulations.
For food delivery, you’ll also need approvals from the Dubai Municipality and Food Control Department.
Documents Required for a Delivery License in Dubai
To start a delivery service, you’ll need to provide the following documents to the authorities:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Emirates ID copies (if applicable)
- Visa copies of partners or shareholders
- Approval from licensing authorities
- Application form for business registration
Once these are ready, Raes Associates can handle the full documentation and submission process to ensure a smooth and quick approval.
Need help preparing your paperwork? Get in touch with Raes Associates, we handle every step, from document preparation to final approval.
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Delivery Business in Dubai?
The cost to start a delivery business in Dubai depends on your business size and type. On average:
- Basic delivery or courier service: AED 15,000 – 25,000
- Food delivery business: AED 25,000 – 40,000 (includes food handling permits)
- E-commerce delivery setup: AED 20,000 – 35,000
Additional expenses may include vehicles, rider visas, uniforms, and app/website setup.
If you plan to sell or deliver products online, you’ll need an e-commerce license. Learn more from our guide on How to Sell on Amazon UAE it covers key license details and selling tips.
Step-by-Step Process to Start a Delivery Company
Here’s a simple process to follow:
Step 1 – Choose Your Business Type
Decide whether you’ll handle food, e-commerce, or parcel delivery.
Step 2 – Register Your Company
Register your trade name and apply for the delivery service license.
Step 3 – Arrange Vehicles and Riders
Hire licensed delivery riders or drivers and ensure vehicle compliance with RTA standards.
Step 4 – Get Necessary Approvals
Food delivery businesses require extra permits from Dubai Municipality.
Step 5 – Build Your App or Partner with Platforms
Use a digital platform or partner with apps like Talabat, Careem, or Deliveroo.
Step 6 – Launch and Market Your Service
Promote through social media, Google Ads, and local networks.
Need help getting your delivery license fast? Contact Raes Associates today we’ll guide you from registration to launch.
Profitability and Growth Potential
Dubai’s delivery companies earn steady profits thanks to high demand and low setup costs. Once your business is established, you can easily scale by:
- Adding more delivery riders
- Expanding to multiple delivery niches (like groceries or medicines)
- Partnering with local e-commerce sellers and restaurants
With consistent demand from both individuals and businesses, a well-managed delivery company can break even within the first year.
Activities Covered Under a Delivery Service Business License
When you start a delivery service business in Dubai, your license allows you to operate across several high-demand sectors:
E-commerce delivery: Work with online stores that need fast and reliable parcel deliveries.
Food delivery: Partner with restaurants, cafés, and cloud kitchens for daily orders.
Courier services: Offer same-day or next-day parcel deliveries for individuals and small businesses.
Boutique deliveries: Help clothing stores and retail outlets deliver directly to customers.
Corporate deliveries: Many offices require routine document and supply deliveries.
With Dubai’s consistent growth in online shopping and dining, the delivery market continues to expand making it a smart business investment.
Tips Before You Start
- Study the Competition: Understand what top courier companies in Dubai offer.
- Get Reliable Riders: Professional and punctual drivers help you retain clients.
- Ensure App/Tracking System: Customers prefer transparency and real-time updates.
- Offer Flexible Pricing: Start competitively and scale gradually.
Why Choose Raes Associates for Delivery Business Setup
Starting a delivery or courier company in Dubai can be simple, if you have the right partner.
Raes Associates offers complete assistance, from trade name registration and license application to RTA permits and compliance setup.
Ready to launch your delivery business? Talk to Raes Associates now for expert help setting up your business the right way.
FAQs
- How to start a delivery business in Dubai?
Choose your business type, apply for a delivery license, get vehicle approvals, and start operations. - How much does it cost to start a courier company in UAE?
You’ll need around AED 15,000–25,000 for basic setup, excluding vehicles and staff. - Do I need an e-commerce license to deliver products?
Yes, if you’re managing your own online store or selling through platforms like Amazon or Noon. - Are delivery services profitable in Dubai?
Yes, due to high demand from restaurants, e-commerce, and grocery chains, this sector remains highly profitable.
