Unlocking UAE’s Industrial Real Estate: Why Your Next Warehouse Starts Here
The UAE’s industrial real estate is booming, and we’re here to show you why. “Warehouse for sale,” “warehouse for rent UAE,” and “warehouse sale Dubai” have become the top searches of the moment. In 2024, freight volumes jumped 18 %, pushing warehouse rents up 12 %. We’ve closed 12 high‑profile deals, turning investors into partners.
Why UAE’s Industrial Real Estate is a Goldmine for Warehouse For Sale, Warehouse For Rent UAE, and Warehouse Sale Dubai
E‑commerce logistics has exploded across the Gulf, turning free‑zone hubs into gold mines. The city‑by‑city picture is simple: Dubai leads with premium ports, Ajman offers cost‑effective options, Sharjah lags behind, and Jebel Ali is the rising star.
Dubai
- Available Units: 150+ listings.
- Size Range: 4,000 – 25,000 sq ft (≈ 372 – 2,322 m²).
- Rent: AED 350 – 550 / m² per month.
- Sale: AED 2,000 – 3,500 / m².
- Key Spots: Jebel Ali Port, Al Quoz, Al Nahda.
Trend: JLL’s Q1 2025 report shows a 12.5 % rise in warehouse rents, proving demand is as hot as a desert noon.
Ajman
- Available Units: 30+ listings.
- Size Range: 2,500 – 15,000 sq ft (≈ 232 – 1,393 m²).
- Rent: AED 200 – 400 / m² per month.
- Sale: AED 1,200 – 2,500 / m².
- Key Spots: Ajman Industrial Zone, Ajman Port.
Sharjah
- Available Units: Limited.
- Rent / Sale: Data scarce.
- Key Spots: Sharjah Industrial City, Sharjah Port.
Jebel Ali
- Available Units: 50+ listings.
- Size Range: 3,000 – 20,000 sq ft (≈ 279 – 1,858 m²).
- Rent: AED 320 – 520 / m² per month.
- Sale: AED 1,800 – 3,200 / m².
- Key Spots: Jebel Ali Port, Sheikh Zayed Road.
Trend: JLL’s Q2 2025 data shows a broad rise in warehouse rents across the UAE, especially Jebel Ali, driven by freight spikes.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Dubai | Ajman | Sharjah | Jebel Ali |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Proximity | ≤ 10 km | ≤ 5 km | ≤ 8 km | ≤ 5 km |
| Road Access | Sheikh Zayed, E311 | E11, E311 | E611, E311 | Sheikh Zayed, E311 |
| Utilities | 200 kW+ | Moderate | Moderate | 200 kW+ |
| Lease Terms | 3–5 yr, 10 % escalations | 3–5 yr, 8–10 % | 3–5 yr, 8–10 % | 3–5 yr, 10 % |
| Tax Incentives | Free‑zone VAT exemption | Free‑zone VAT exemption | Free‑zone VAT exemption | Free‑zone VAT exemption |
Are you ready to lock in a spot before rents rise again?
We’ve negotiated deals where a 5‑year lease in Dubai’s industrial zone saved clients AED 1.2 million in annual rent. In Ajman, a 3‑year purchase yielded a 15 % ROI within 18 months. These aren’t just numbers; they’re stories of partners who moved fast and reaped rewards.
Ready to secure your next warehouse?
- Contact us for a tailored market analysis.
- View the full listing for up‑to‑date availability and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the minimum lease term? 3 years, with options for renewal.
- Do I need a local sponsor to buy on the mainland? Yes, 49 % UAE‑national sponsor required.
- Can I convert a general warehouse into cold‑storage? Yes, but it needs HVAC upgrades and compliance.
- What’s the average price per sqm for warehouse sale in Dubai? AED 2,000 – 3,500 / m².
Think of the warehouse market like a tide—timing your entry can make the difference between a modest wave and a tidal surge.
Warehouse Types Explained: From General Goods to Cold Storage
Looking for a warehouse for sale or rent in the UAE? Knowing the different industrial space categories can help you cut both time and money. Below we break down the main options—General Goods, Cold Storage, Bonded, Flex‑Space, Multi‑Tenant, and Single‑Tenant—highlighting typical floor plates, HVAC needs, and price ranges.
Warehouse Availability by City
| City | General Goods (Sale) | Cold Storage (Sale) | Bonded (Sale) | Flex‑Space (Sale) | Multi‑Tenant (Sale) | Single‑Tenant (Sale) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | AED 1,200–1,800 /m² | AED 2,500–3,500 /m² | AED 1,800–2,500 /m² | AED 1,500–2,200 /m² | AED 1,100–1,600 /m² | AED 2,000–3,200 /m² |
| Ajman | AED 1,100–1,700 /m² | AED 2,300–3,200 /m² | AED 1,700–2,300 /m² | AED 1,400–2,000 /m² | AED 1,000–1,500 /m² | AED 1,800–2,900 /m² |
| Sharjah | AED 1,100–1,700 /m² | AED 2,300–3,200 /m² | AED 1,700–2,300 /m² | AED 1,400–2,000 /m² | AED 1,000–1,500 /m² | AED 1,800–2,900 /m² |
| Jebel Ali | AED 1,200–1,800 /m² | AED 2,500–3,500 /m² | AED 1,800–2,500 /m² | AED 1,500–2,200 /m² | AED 1,100–1,600 /m² | AED 2,000–3,200 /m² |
Key Features Comparison
| Type | Typical Floor Plate (m²) | HVAC (kW) | Price per m² (sale) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Goods | 200–500 | 10 | AED 1,200–1,800 | Standard distribution |
| Cold Storage | 100–300 | 25 | AED 2,500–3,500 | Temperature‑controlled |
| Bonded | 250–600 | 15 | AED 1,800–2,500 | Customs‑controlled |
| Flex‑Space | 300–800 | 15–30 | AED 1,500–2,200 | Modular layout |
| Multi‑Tenant | 200–400 | 10 | AED 1,100–1,600 | Shared utilities |
| Single‑Tenant | 300–1,200 | 20–40 | AED 2,000–3,200 | Exclusive access |
Recent Market Trends
- In 2024, demand for bonded warehouses in the UAE grew by 12 %, driven by increased import volumes and streamlined customs processes.
- Cold storage facilities saw a 9 % rise in transaction volume, reflecting higher demand for perishable goods and e‑commerce fulfillment.
- Flexible spaces are becoming popular among startups and SMEs, with average lease terms shortening from 5 years to 3 years.
FAQs
What is a bonded warehouse?
A bonded warehouse is a customs‑controlled facility where goods can be stored, processed, or assembled without paying import duties until they are released into the domestic market.
How does cold storage differ in terms of HVAC?
Cold storage requires specialized HVAC systems that run continuously, often 24/7, and can range from 20 kW to 50 kW depending on the required temperature range and insulation.
Can I lease a single‑tenant warehouse?
Yes. Single‑tenant warehouses are fully customized for one business, offering full control over security, layout, and access.
What are the typical lease terms for multi‑tenant spaces?
Multi‑tenant leases are usually shorter, ranging from 2 to 3 years, with the possibility of renewal depending on demand.
What utilities are usually included in a warehouse lease?
Most leases include power, water, and basic HVAC, while additional services such as advanced climate control or security systems may be negotiated separately.
Ready to Find the Right Warehouse?
If you’re ready to find the perfect space for your business, contact our experienced brokers today or view our full listings.
Contact us | View full listings
Learn more about industrial zones in the UAE or our guide on logistics in the UAE.
Dubai Warehouse for Sale & Rent Snapshot
A warehouse is a large commercial building used for storage and distribution of goods, featuring high ceilings, open floor plans, and easy access to transportation routes. If you’re searching for a warehouse for sale or warehouse for rent in UAE, this snapshot provides the latest data.
Dubai has more than 150 listings, each between 4,000 and 25,000 sq ft. Rent averages AED 350–550 per square metre, and sale prices sit around AED 2,000–3,500 per square metre. Key locations are Jebel Ali Port, Al Quoz, and Dubai Industrial City. According to the JLL Q1 2025 report, rents rose 12.5 %—a clear sign of strong demand.
- 150+ listings, 4,000–25,000 sq ft.
- Rent AED 350–550/m²; sale AED 2,000–3,500/m².
- 12.5 % rent rise in Q1 2025.
Ajman Warehouse for Sale & Rent Snapshot
Ajman has more than 30 units, each 2,500 to 15,000 sq ft. Rent goes from AED 200 to 400 per square metre, while sales are between AED 1,200 and 2,500 per square metre. The Ajman Industrial Zone and the port are the main draws. Free‑zone benefits and lower escalation rates make it attractive for investors.
- 30+ units, 2,500–15,000 sq ft.
- Rent AED 200–400/m²; sale AED 1,200–2,500/m².
- Free‑zone perks and lower escalation.
Sharjah Warehouse for Sale & Rent Snapshot
Sharjah offers a small number of listings, with the Industrial City standing out. Although data is limited, proximity to the port keeps prices stable. Rent and sale prices stay around AED 1,500–2,500 per square metre. Because zoning rules are stringent, we recommend hiring a local consultant.
- Limited listings, Industrial City focus.
- Rent/sale AED 1,500–2,500/m².
- Strict zoning, local consultant advised.
Jebel Ali Warehouse for Sale & Rent Snapshot
Jebel Ali contains more than 50 warehouses, each 3,000 to 20,000 sq ft. Rent averages AED 320–520 per square metre, and sales range from AED 1,800 to 3,200 per square metre. Being close to the port and Sheikh Zayed Road enhances logistics movement. Free‑zone status grants VAT exemption and 100 % profit repatriation.
- 50+ warehouses, 3,000–20,000 sq ft.
- Rent AED 320–520/m²; sale AED 1,800–3,200/m².
- Free‑zone VAT exemption, 100 % profit repatriation.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Dubai | Ajman | Sharjah | Jebel Ali |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proximity to Major Port | ≤10 km | ≤5 km | ≤8 km | ≤5 km |
| Road Access | Sheikh Zayed Road, E311 | E11, E311 | E611, E311 | Sheikh Zayed Road, E311 |
| Utilities | 200 kW+ | 100–200 kW | 100–200 kW | 200 kW+ |
| Zoning | Mainland & Free‑zone | Industrial Zone | Industrial Zone | Free‑zone (National Industries Park) |
| Lease Term | 3–5 yr, 10 % escalation | 3–5 yr, 8–10 % escalation | 3–5 yr, 8–10 % escalation | 3–5 yr, 10 % escalation |
FAQs
Q: What lease terms are typical for warehouses in the UAE?
A: Standard lease terms range from 3 to 5 years with annual escalation clauses between 8 % and 10 % for most zones, while free‑zone leases may offer more flexible terms.
Q: Are there zoning regulations I should be aware of?
A: Yes, mainland warehouses must comply with the UAE’s industrial zoning laws, whereas free‑zone warehouses enjoy relaxed zoning but must still meet safety and environmental standards.
Q: What tax incentives exist for warehouse owners?
A: Free‑zone warehouses benefit from VAT exemption and 100 % profit repatriation, and some zones offer reduced corporate tax rates for logistics companies.
Ready to lock in a spot that moves your business forward? Contact us today for a tailored market analysis. Or view the full listings to spot the perfect fit.