Compare International Humanitarian City (IHC) and UAQ Free Trade Zone for Logistics & Supply Chain setup. Side-by-side comparison of fees, processing times, substance, and bank approval.
International Humanitarian City (IHC) vs UAQ Free Trade Zone for Logistics & Supply Chain: International Humanitarian City (IHC) starts at AED 28,814 (85% bank approval) and UAQ Free Trade Zone at AED 5,500 (82%). On Year-1 cost, UAQ Free Trade Zone is the lower-priced option.
| Jurisdiction | Baseline Gov Fee | Processing Speed | Banking | Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AED 28,814 | 7-14 days | Moderate | Dedicated humanitarian and non-profit organization hub | |
| AED 5,500 | 1-3 days | Moderate | Low-cost free zone in UAE with minimal setup requirements |
Dedicated humanitarian and non-profit organization hub
Logistics licenses cover freight forwarding, warehousing, and supply chain management. Many free zones with port or airport proximity (JAFZA, DAFZA, AFZ) offer integrated logistics licensing with customs-bonded warehouse access. A separate transport permit from the UAE Ministry of Infrastructure may be needed for fleet operations.
Logistics qualifies as a qualifying free zone activity. International freight and transport services are zero-rated for VAT purposes. Domestic transport and warehousing services within the UAE attract the standard 5% VAT.
Logistics companies benefit from trade finance products including letters of credit and bills of collection. Banks will want to see contracts with shipping lines or airlines and evidence of an established logistics network. High transaction volumes may require dedicated relationship management.
2024: Rebranded from IHC to 'Dubai Humanitarian'
2025: New training programs for aid logistics
Investing in expanded warehousing and 'kit packing' centers for emergency supplies
Hosts 8+ UN agencies including WFP, UNHCR, WHO, UNICEF, OCHA, and IFRC
Company setup in International Humanitarian City (IHC) starts from AED 28,814 per year.
International Humanitarian City (IHC) processes company registrations in 7-14 working days.
Bank account approval probability is 85%. Banking difficulty is rated Moderate.
Most UAE free zones including International Humanitarian City (IHC) allow remote company incorporation. Bank account opening may require an in-person visit.
International Humanitarian City (IHC) does not require paid-up share capital for most standard license types. Share capital is notional.
UAQ Free Trade Zone wins on 3 of 4 dimensions. We recommend UAQ Free Trade Zone for cost-conscious founders and International Humanitarian City (IHC) if dedicated humanitarian and non-profit organization hub.
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