Warehouse for Rent in Dubai Industrial City
Dubai Industrial City (DIC) is purpose-built for manufacturers and heavy industry. Find modern facilities with high power capacity, wide road access, and competitive pricing designed specifically for production, assembly, and industrial operations.
From small workshops to 100,000+ sqft manufacturing plants, DIC offers scalable industrial spaces with robust infrastructure. Search verified listings with detailed specs including power load, ceiling height, and production-ready features.
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Find the perfect industrial space for your specific needs
Why Dubai Industrial City for Your Manufacturing Business?
Strategic advantages that make DIC the preferred choice for industrial operations.
Cost-Effective Pricing
DIC offers 30-40% lower rental rates compared to central locations like Al Quoz while maintaining high-quality infrastructure. Average rates of AED 20-35/sqft make it accessible for SMEs and startups.
- Lower rent per sqft
- Reduced operating costs
- No hidden compound fees
- Long-term rate stability
Purpose-Built Infrastructure
Designed specifically for manufacturing with heavy-duty electrical systems, reinforced flooring, high ceilings, and industrial-grade utilities that support heavy machinery without expensive upgrades.
- 50-500 KW power capacity
- 8-12m ceiling heights
- Heavy load flooring
- Industrial drainage
Strategic Location
Located on Emirates Road with direct access to E611, connecting to all major UAE highways. Proximity to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi makes distribution efficient across the entire UAE market.
- Emirates Road access
- 30 min to Port Rashid
- 45 min to Abu Dhabi
- 25 min to DXB Airport
Diverse Industry Ecosystem
DIC hosts 500+ manufacturers creating a synergistic business environment. Easy access to suppliers, service providers, and potential B2B customers all within the same industrial zone.
- 500+ companies
- Supplier proximity
- B2B opportunities
- Industry networking
Flexible Licensing Options
Mainland jurisdiction allows you to trade freely within UAE without restrictions. Obtain industrial licenses for manufacturing, assembly, packaging, or commercial licenses for trading and distribution.
- Mainland UAE access
- Multiple license types
- No freezone limits
- Local market trading
Modern Amenities
Unlike older industrial areas, DIC features well-maintained roads, proper drainage, security infrastructure, and planned facilities including labor accommodation, making operations smoother.
- 24/7 security
- Labor accommodation
- Maintained infrastructure
- Planned development
Types of Industrial Facilities Available in DIC
From compact workshops to sprawling production plants.
Light Manufacturing Units
2,000 - 10,000 sqftIdeal for small manufacturers, assembly operations, packaging, and light production. These units come with standard industrial features and are perfect for startups and SMEs.
Ideal For:
- Product assembly
- Packaging & labeling
- Light fabrication
- Sample production
- Quality control labs
Power: 30-80 KW | Height: 6-8m | Rate: AED 20-28/sqft
Heavy Manufacturing Warehouses
10,000 - 50,000 sqftLarge-scale production facilities with heavy-duty infrastructure. Designed for machinery installation, metal fabrication, and industrial manufacturing requiring significant power and space.
Ideal For:
- Metal fabrication
- Machinery manufacturing
- Aluminum & steel works
- Automotive parts production
- Industrial equipment
Power: 100-300 KW | Height: 8-12m | Rate: AED 22-32/sqft
Food Processing Facilities
5,000 - 30,000 sqftHACCP-compliant units with specialized drainage, ventilation, and utilities for food manufacturing. Pre-approved for food industry operations with municipality certifications.
Ideal For:
- Food manufacturing
- Beverage production
- Bakery & confectionery
- Meat processing
- Packaged foods
Power: 50-150 KW | Height: 6-10m | Rate: AED 25-35/sqft
Logistics & Distribution Centers
15,000 - 100,000+ sqftMassive warehouses designed for inventory storage and distribution operations. Features include multiple loading docks, high ceilings for racking, and excellent truck access.
Ideal For:
- 3PL operations
- E-commerce fulfillment
- Import/export storage
- Wholesale distribution
- Cross-docking
Power: 80-200 KW | Height: 9-14m | Rate: AED 18-28/sqft
Chemical & Hazmat Storage
3,000 - 20,000 sqftSpecialized facilities with Civil Defense approvals for chemical storage. Features include containment systems, specialized ventilation, and safety infrastructure for hazardous materials.
Ideal For:
- Chemical storage
- Industrial solvents
- Paint & coatings
- Adhesives
- Petrochemicals
Power: 40-120 KW | Height: 6-9m | Rate: AED 28-38/sqft
Build-to-Suit Plots
20,000 - 500,000+ sqftLeased land plots where you can construct custom facilities to exact specifications. Ideal for large manufacturers with specific operational requirements and long-term expansion plans.
Ideal For:
- Custom manufacturing plants
- Corporate headquarters
- Specialized production
- Long-term operations
- Multi-facility campuses
Build cost: AED 200-400/sqft | Lease: 10-25 years | Custom specs
DIC Pricing vs Other Industrial Zones
Compare rental costs across Dubai's major industrial areas.
| Location | Average Rate (AED/sqft/year) | Typical Size Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Industrial City★ Featured | AED 20-35 | 2,000 - 100,000 sqft | Heavy manufacturing, large operations |
| Al Quoz Industrial | AED 40-60 | 1,000 - 20,000 sqft | Central location, showrooms |
| DIP (Dubai Inv. Park) | AED 25-40 | 3,000 - 50,000 sqft | Mixed industrial & logistics |
| Ras Al Khor | AED 18-30 | 1,500 - 30,000 sqft | Budget operations, traditional industry |
| JAFZA | AED 22-38 | 5,000 - 200,000 sqft | Freezone, import/export |
| Dubai South | AED 18-32 | 10,000 - 150,000 sqft | Airport logistics, new developments |
💰 Cost Savings Example
A 10,000 sqft warehouse in Al Quoz at AED 50/sqft costs AED 500,000/year. The same size in DIC at AED 28/sqft costs only AED 280,000/year — saving AED 220,000 annually. That's enough to hire 3-4 additional staff or invest in machinery upgrades.
Technical Specifications: What to Check Before Leasing
Essential technical requirements for manufacturing operations.
Critical Infrastructure Elements
Electrical Power Capacity
Verify the sanctioned load matches your machinery requirements. DIC typically offers 50-500 KW. Upgrading later is expensive (AED 40,000-100,000) and time-consuming.
- Request DEWA connection certificate
- Confirm 3-phase power availability
- Check transformer capacity on compound
- Verify backup power options
Floor Load Bearing Capacity
Industrial floors must support heavy machinery and racking systems. Standard is 2-3 tons/sqm, but heavy manufacturing needs 5+ tons/sqm.
- Request structural engineering certificate
- Check floor thickness (150mm minimum)
- Verify concrete grade (M25 or higher)
- Inspect for cracks or subsidence
Ceiling Height & Clear Span
Height determines racking potential and machinery clearance. DIC warehouses typically offer 8-12m eaves height with wide column spacing.
- Measure eaves height (lowest point)
- Check column spacing for layout
- Verify overhead crane provision if needed
- Assess natural light from skylights
Loading & Access Infrastructure
Adequate loading facilities and truck access are crucial for efficient operations. Check dock heights, bay sizes, and approach roads.
- Count number of loading bays
- Measure bay door width (4m+ ideal)
- Check dock height compatibility
- Verify truck turning radius in compound
Compliance & Safety Requirements
Civil Defense Approval
MandatoryAll warehouses must have valid fire safety certification with functional sprinkler systems, alarms, and emergency exits.
Action: Request current Civil Defense certificate copy before signing contract
Municipality Building Permit
EssentialBuilding must have approved construction completion certificate from Dubai Municipality proving legal construction.
Action: Verify building is not under violation notice or pending demolition
Environmental Clearance
Industry-SpecificManufacturing operations producing emissions, waste, or noise require environmental impact assessments and permits.
Action: Check if landlord has environmental NOC for your intended activity
Occupancy Certificate
Required for LicenseProves the building is legally fit for occupation and meets safety standards. Needed for trade license approval.
Action: Obtain copy of occupancy certificate from landlord
Insurance Coverage
RecommendedLandlord should have building insurance. Tenant needs contents and liability insurance covering operations and inventory.
Action: Review insurance requirements in tenancy contract clauses
Zoning Compliance
MandatoryYour business activity must be permitted in industrial zoning. Some activities (residential, retail) are prohibited.
Action: Confirm with DED that your license activity matches zoning permissions
How to Lease a Warehouse in Dubai Industrial City
Complete step-by-step guide from search to move-in.
Define Your Requirements
Week 1- Calculate space needed (production + storage + office)
- Determine power load for machinery (consult electrician)
- Decide on ceiling height based on racking/equipment
- Set budget including fit-out costs
- List must-have features (loading bays, insulation, etc.)
💡 Pro Tip: Add 30% buffer to space calculations for future growth
Search & Shortlist Properties
Week 1-2- Use Hayy.AI filters for DIC warehouses matching specs
- Compare rates per sqft across different compounds
- Review photos, floor plans, and virtual tours
- Shortlist 5-8 properties for physical inspection
- Contact agents to arrange viewing appointments
💡 Pro Tip: Schedule all viewings on same day to compare directly
Physical Inspection
Week 2-3- Bring contractor/engineer to assess structural quality
- Check Civil Defense equipment (sprinklers, alarms)
- Test loading bay access with actual truck if possible
- Measure power points and electrical panel capacity
- Inspect roof for leaks (look for water stains)
- Review security measures and compound maintenance
💡 Pro Tip: Visit after rain to identify drainage/flooding issues
Negotiation & Offer
Week 3-4- Make written offer with proposed terms
- Negotiate rent-free fit-out period (30-60 days)
- Request landlord contributions to approved improvements
- Clarify service charge inclusions/exclusions
- Agree on early termination clause terms
- Lock in rent escalation cap (5% max annually)
💡 Pro Tip: Show comparable listings at lower rates as leverage
Documentation Review
Week 4-5- Review tenancy contract with legal advisor
- Verify landlord ownership through title deed
- Check Civil Defense certificate validity (not expired)
- Obtain copy of building municipality approval
- Request DEWA clearance (no outstanding bills)
- Confirm all verbal promises are in written contract
💡 Pro Tip: Never sign contract without lawyer review
Contract Signing & Payment
Week 5-6- Pay security deposit (5-10% of annual rent)
- Pay first installment (quarterly or annual)
- Pay agency commission (5-10% + VAT)
- Sign tenancy contract (Ejari registration)
- Obtain landlord NOC for trade license
- Receive keys and access cards
💡 Pro Tip: Ensure Ejari registration for valid trade license
Utilities & Approvals
Week 6-8- Transfer DEWA account to your name
- Apply for additional power load if needed
- Get internet/telecom connections installed
- Submit fit-out drawings to municipality (if modifying)
- Obtain Civil Defense approval for fit-out work
- Arrange waste management and cleaning services
💡 Pro Tip: DEWA transfer takes 2-5 days, plan accordingly
Trade License Application
Week 7-10- Submit license application to DED with documents
- Provide tenancy contract (Ejari registered)
- Submit landlord NOC and building approvals
- Pay license fees and processing charges
- Complete municipality inspection if required
- Receive trade license approval and certificate
💡 Pro Tip: Industrial licenses take 3-6 weeks for approval
Fit-Out & Setup
Week 8-16- Execute approved fit-out according to plans
- Install machinery, racking, and equipment
- Set up office area and staff facilities
- Install additional security systems if needed
- Arrange signage and branding
- Conduct safety audit and staff training
💡 Pro Tip: Fit-out duration depends on complexity (4-12 weeks typical)
Final Inspections & Operations
Week 16-18- Complete Civil Defense final inspection
- Municipality final approval for occupancy
- Test all equipment and safety systems
- Conduct trial production run
- Train staff on emergency procedures
- Officially commence business operations
💡 Pro Tip: Keep all certificates and approvals in organized file
Total Cost Breakdown: DIC Warehouse Example
Real cost analysis for a 10,000 sqft warehouse in Dubai Industrial City.
Year 1: Initial Costs (10,000 sqft @ AED 28/sqft)
Excluding deposit: AED 658,700 | Monthly average: AED 54,891
Year 2+: Recurring Annual Costs
Monthly average: AED 39,966 | Per sqft: AED 48/year
Cost Optimization Tips
- Install solar panels to reduce DEWA costs by 30-50%
- Negotiate multi-year contracts for 10% rent reduction
- Group insurance policies for better corporate rates
- Share security costs with neighboring tenants
Success Stories: Businesses Thriving in DIC
Real examples of companies that found their perfect space in Dubai Industrial City.
AluminumTech Manufacturing
Aluminum FabricationMoved from cramped Ras Al Khor unit to 15,000 sqft DIC facility with 200 KW power. The high ceilings and heavy-duty flooring allowed them to install overhead cranes for handling large aluminum sheets. Production capacity doubled while rent per sqft decreased by 25%.
Key Results:
- Production capacity +100%
- Rent savings: AED 120K/year
- Added 15 staff members
- Reduced delivery times
FreshBake Foods
Food ManufacturingStarted in shared kitchen, graduated to 8,000 sqft HACCP-certified DIC warehouse. Municipality approvals were faster due to pre-approved food processing infrastructure. Now producing 5,000 units daily for UAE supermarkets with room for cold storage expansion.
Key Results:
- 5,000 units daily output
- HACCP certified facility
- Serving 50+ supermarkets
- Planning 2nd shift operations
LogiSwift Distribution
3PL LogisticsE-commerce fulfillment company leased 25,000 sqft with 6 loading bays in DIC. Central UAE location allows next-day delivery to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The affordable rate freed up capital for automation and racking systems. Now handling 2,000+ orders daily.
Key Results:
- 2,000+ daily orders processed
- Automated picking system
- Same-day Dubai fulfillment
- Client portfolio: 40+ brands
ChemSafe Solutions
Chemical StorageSpecialized chemical distributor needed Civil Defense approved hazmat facility. Found purpose-built 12,000 sqft unit in DIC with containment systems already installed. Saved AED 200K on fit-out costs and operational within 6 weeks instead of 6 months.
Key Results:
- Civil Defense pre-approved
- Fit-out savings: AED 200K
- Time to operations: 6 weeks
- Storing 200+ chemical SKUs
Furniture Craft Workshop
Furniture ManufacturingCustom furniture maker upgraded from residential villa to 10,000 sqft DIC warehouse with proper ventilation for spray painting. No neighbor complaints about noise from machinery. The 24/7 operations allowed them to take on larger commercial projects.
Key Results:
- 24/7 production allowed
- Commercial project capacity
- Dedicated spray booth
- Showroom area for clients
AutoParts Express
Automotive TradingCar parts wholesaler consolidated 3 small stores into one 20,000 sqft DIC warehouse with customer showroom. Heavy-duty racking holds 50,000+ SKUs. The mainland license allows them to sell B2B and B2C without restrictions. Revenue tripled in 2 years.
Key Results:
- Revenue growth: 300%
- Inventory: 50K+ SKUs
- B2B & B2C operations
- 12 delivery vans operating
Mistakes to Avoid When Leasing in DIC
Learn from others' costly errors when renting industrial space.
Underestimating DEWA Consumption
❌ Dubai summers spike electricity bills. Non-insulated warehouses can cost AED 10-15K/month in AC alone.
✅ Verify insulation quality. Calculate DEWA based on summer months, not winter averages.
Signing Without Power Verification
❌ Discovered 30 KW load insufficient after moving machinery. Upgrading cost AED 60K and took 3 months.
✅ Bring electrician to inspect panel. Request DEWA certificate showing sanctioned load.
Ignoring Access Road Conditions
❌ 40ft trailers couldn't navigate narrow compound roads. Had to hand-unload at gate, wasting hours daily.
✅ Test drive with actual truck before signing. Measure turning radius and gate width.
Not Budgeting for Fit-Out
❌ Spent entire capital on rent/deposit. Couldn't afford basic office partitions or equipment installation.
✅ Reserve 40-50% of Year 1 budget for fit-out, equipment, and working capital buffer.
Skipping Civil Defense Check
❌ Sprinkler system was defunct. Municipality refused license. Landlord took 4 months to repair.
✅ Physically test sprinklers during inspection. Request Civil Defense certificate dated within 6 months.
Choosing Based on Price Alone
❌ Cheapest unit was 15km further. Extra fuel and time costs exceeded rent savings.
✅ Calculate total operational cost including logistics, staff commute, and delivery impact.
Verbal Agreement on Modifications
❌ Landlord denied permission for mezzanine office despite verbal promise. Had to operate without office.
✅ Get landlord NOC for any modifications IN WRITING before signing lease contract.
Not Reading Service Charge Fine Print
❌ Service charge excluded AC maintenance. Spent AED 30K unexpected fixing old chillers.
✅ Request itemized service charge breakdown. Clarify what's included vs tenant responsibility.
Rushing Due Diligence
❌ Didn't check for roof leaks. First monsoon flooded warehouse, damaging AED 100K inventory.
✅ Inspect during/after rain if possible. Look for water stains on floors and walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Expert answers about leasing warehouses in Dubai Industrial City.
Can I get a commercial or industrial license in DIC?
Dubai Industrial City is specifically zoned for industrial activities. You can obtain various industrial licenses including Manufacturing, Light Manufacturing, Assembly, Packaging, Food Processing, and Industrial Trading. Commercial trading licenses are also available for wholesale operations.
Are there ready-made warehouses or only built-to-suit?
Both options are available. DIC has numerous ready-to-move-in warehouses in various sizes from 2,000 sqft to 50,000+ sqft. For larger manufacturers, build-to-suit options on leased land plots are also offered with customizable specifications.
What is the minimum lease term in Dubai Industrial City?
Most landlords in DIC require a minimum 1-year lease contract. However, for larger facilities or built-to-suit projects, landlords often prefer 3-5 year lease commitments. Longer terms can sometimes be negotiated for better rates.
Is labor accommodation available nearby?
Yes, Dubai Industrial City has designated labor accommodation facilities within the zone and in nearby areas. This makes it convenient for manufacturers who need to house their workers close to the production facility.
What are the road access conditions for heavy trucks?
DIC is designed with wide internal roads specifically to accommodate heavy trucks, trailers, and 40ft containers. The infrastructure includes proper turning radiuses, loading areas, and direct access to Emirates Road (E611) for easy transportation.
Can I store hazardous materials in DIC warehouses?
Yes, with proper approvals. Dubai Industrial City has designated zones for chemical storage and hazardous materials. You'll need specific Civil Defense approvals, proper containment systems, and compliance with environmental regulations.
Are there any restrictions on operating hours?
DIC is a dedicated industrial zone, so 24/7 operations are generally permitted. There are no residential areas within the zone, allowing for round-the-clock manufacturing, shift work, and logistics operations without noise complaints.
What utilities infrastructure is available?
DIC offers comprehensive utilities including high-capacity electricity (DEWA), water supply, sewage systems, telecommunications, and internet connectivity. The infrastructure is built to industrial standards to support heavy manufacturing.
Is there public transportation access to DIC?
Public transportation to DIC is limited as it's an industrial zone. Most workers commute via company-provided buses or private vehicles. The location is car-dependent, so ensure you have staff transportation arrangements in place.
Can I expand my warehouse space later?
Expansion options depend on availability. Many DIC compounds have adjacent units that may become available. Alternatively, you can negotiate with landlords for first-right-of-refusal on neighboring spaces. Planning for growth from the start is recommended.
What security measures are in place in DIC?
Most DIC warehouse compounds have 24/7 security guards, perimeter fencing, CCTV coverage, and controlled gate access. However, security levels vary by compound, so verify specific measures with each property. Additional security can be arranged privately.
Are there banking and business services in DIC?
DIC has limited retail and banking services within the zone. However, nearby commercial areas in Al Quoz and on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road offer comprehensive banking, dining, and business services within 10-15 minutes drive.
What approvals do I need before starting operations?
You'll need a valid trade license, Civil Defense approval (fire safety certificate), Municipality approval for fit-out if making modifications, environmental permits if applicable, and DEWA connection. Processing time is typically 4-8 weeks for all approvals.
Can I sublease unused portion of my warehouse?
Subleasing policies vary by landlord and your specific tenancy contract. Most require written approval from the property owner. If you need flexible space options, consider looking at shared warehouse facilities instead.
How does DIC compare to JAFZA for manufacturing?
DIC is mainland (allows UAE market access) while JAFZA is freezone (duty-free imports/exports but restricted local sales). DIC is more affordable and better for UAE-focused businesses. JAFZA is ideal for export-oriented manufacturers needing port proximity.
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