Do you know there are eight different types of warehouses in Dubai?
Every business has unique needs; therefore, they need different types of warehouses in Dubai to meet their operational requirements. When selecting a storage space, you must prioritise your company's storage needs. Does it align with your specific requirements and long-term goals?
When making a decision, businesses must consider everything, from location, size, and safety to technology and cost.
Whether you're a startup seeking your first storage facility or an established business optimising logistics and storage, choosing the right warehouse for your business is essential. It ensures operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall success.
Dubai has different types of warehouses designed for various storage purposes. Some offer only basic facilities, while others include specialised features and advanced technologies. The rent varies depending on these elements. You must make a decision that best suits your business needs.
8 Types of Warehouses in Dubai
1. AC/Non-AC Warehouse
2. General Cargo Storage
3. Free Zone Warehouse
4. Open Yard
5. Food Grade Warehouse
6. Cold Storage
7. Medical Storage
8. Chemical/Dangerous Goods Storage
1. AC/Non-AC Warehouse
AC warehouses provide a climate-controlled environment ideal for the UAE's hot climate. They are the perfect solution for storing goods that are sensitive to temperature, such as food, medicine, furniture, clothing, and electronics.a. Goods are kept at a controlled temperature range of 20-26°C.
b. Humidity levels are maintained to protect against moisture damage.
Non-AC warehouses generally have lower operating costs than their AC counterparts. It is a comparatively budget-friendly alternative storage facility for businesses with goods that do not require temperature control.
a. Non-AC warehouses often provide more spacious storage areas, making them suitable for bulk storage or large-scale operations.
b. They may be appropriate for goods that can withstand typical environmental conditions, such as industrial machinery and equipment.- Dubai has AC and Non-AC warehouses with 10 sq ft to 10,000 sq ft storage areas. You can have these options for at least 3 pallets or 5 CBMs up to any size or quantity.
- If you are looking for a warehouse only for a particular season or project, it is often better to opt for On-Demand storage services. Prices vary depending on the chosen size, location, and required time frame.
2. General Cargo Storage
General cargo includes all goods that can be transported as a whole; it does not include liquid freight or bulk load. The warehouses are designed to handle various goods, ranging from consumer products, electronics, textiles, machinery, and industrial materials to non-perishable food items.
General Cargo warehouses are available in AC, Non-AC, and open yards.
Many general cargo warehouses in Dubai have modern facilities, advanced technology, and efficient storage systems to optimize inventory management and order fulfilment processes.
These warehouses come in various sizes, allowing businesses to choose the space that best suits their needs.
You can avail storage spaces from 10 sqft up to 10,000 sqft on a weekly, monthly, or yearly contract. You can book a minimum of 3 pallets or 5 CBMs up to any size or quantity.
Different rates are applicable as per the warehouse size, location, and required time frame.
3. Free zone warehouse
Free zones are specific economic zones for carrying out trade, manufacturing, and other commercial activities.
As the name suggests, these warehouses are located in the “Free Zone”. They offer many benefits and incentives to businesses, including tax incentives and exemptions from import duties on stored goods.
A free zone warehouse is suitable if your business deals with import/ export. It offers more flexibility in commodity operations without complex legal formalities.
These warehouses are perfect for General Cargo, Food Products, Dangerous Goods (DG) cargo, tyres, chemicals, or other unique products bound for other countries or planned to be exported.
Free Zone warehouses and storage are available in Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) and Sharjah International Airport Free Zone (SAIF Zone). You can select warehouses of various grades in one location or more than one, too. They are available in multiple sizes, at least 10 sqft up to 10,000 sqft. Likewise, you can book a minimum of 5 pallets or 10 CBMs up to any size or quantity.
Likewise, you can book a minimum of 5 pallets or 10 CBMs up to any size or quantity.
4. Open Yard
Open yards are perfect for storing oversized goods outside. These outdoor storage areas provide businesses ample space to store large, oversized, or bulk items.
They are excellent solutions for temporary storage needs, particularly for businesses involved in project-based work or during peak seasons. Goods like construction materials, industrial equipment, and certain commodities are better suited for outdoor storage.
When selecting an open yard, choosing one that efficiently utilises its space for handling heavy goods is essential. Additionally, it's crucial to consider the location of the warehouse for easy transportation of goods in and out of the area.
There should be strict monitoring of vehicles moving in and out of the yard space at all times. It is also essential to confirm the safety protocols of these storage spaces. You can have open yards, closed yards, open sheds, and container storage facilities in the Freezone and mainland areas.
These warehouses are also available in JAFZA South or JAFZA North, DIP, DIC & AI Quoz.
5. Food Grade Warehouse
Food-grade warehouses are specialized storage facilities to store different food products in a clean environment that adheres to all safety protocols laid down by the respective authorities.
They provide a controlled environment for storing, handling and distributing food items. These warehouses are climate controlled to maintain the required temperature and humidity levels for different food products.
As these warehouses require higher maintenance levels, opting for a flexible storage facility is ideal if you are conscious of your capital investment.
If you are an SME or a start-up, you needn't worry about the size of the storage space. On-Demand warehouses are available starting from 10 sqft to 10,000 sqft. Expand your storage space as and when required, and then pay on the actuals.
6. Cold Storage
Cold storage warehouses in the UAE are specialised facilities equipped with refrigeration and temperature control systems to store perishable goods and products that require specific temperature conditions.
These facilities are essential for preserving the quality, safety, and shelf life of temperature-sensitive items, including food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other perishable goods.
Warehouses must follow strict protocols to prevent stock damage and financial losses.
Cold storage temperature range: -20°C to +18°C. Freezer chambers provide precise control over temperature and humidity, and they are monitored and mapped hourly.
Storage rates depend on:
Chosen temperature settings
Storage volume
Duration of storage
Most cold storage warehouses have experienced staff and specialised equipment for safe handling.
Additional services may include:
Cargo distribution
Freezers & dry storage
Blast freezing for rapid cooling
Many warehouses in and around Dubai offer cold storage facilities. You can select one ideal for location, space, gradings, and budget.
7. Medical Storage
Medical storage warehouses cater to the pharmaceutical industry, for storing medications, including controlled substances and high-value pharmaceuticals.
Warehouses storing medical device storage ensure they are kept in optimal conditions and ready for distribution when needed.
Medical storage warehouses require many protocols to ensure safety when handling medical commodities. They provide separate storage spaces for chemicals, radioactive materials, pharmaceutical drugs, expired or rejected medicines etc.
a. Security is a significant factor in these warehouses to prevent unauthorized access and protect valuable medical products.
b. The temperature is usually between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius, with less than 60% humidity.
c. Special precautionary measures are also taken to dispose of medical wastes and work hazards.
8. Chemical/Dangerous Goods
These facilities adhere to strict safety regulations and guidelines to ensure the safe and secure storage of dangerous goods. All dangerous goods must be stored in a protected space following high-security measures and attended to by well-trained staff.
The chemical goods storage warehouses adhere to the Dubai Municipality Code of Practice for Management of Dangerous Goods. They are required to keep themselves updated on any rule changes by the UAE government.
These warehouses are temperature-controlled as required for storing these goods. Additionally, safety and precautionary measures are implemented in case of accidents.
How to choose your warehouse
Different types of warehouses are available with unique benefits to cater to various industries and goods. Once you decide on the kind of warehouse you require, look for features to enhance your experience.
A good warehouse will have multiple features, which include:
a. Trained staff
b. Organized picking and packing
c. Emergency protocols
d. Approved safety standards
e. A good Warehouse Management System
f. Optimal space utilization
g. Good customer service
Your choice of selecting the best types of warehouses can optimise your supply chain, reduce transportation costs, and improve inventory management. It will give you a competitive edge in the market and increase profitability.
By selecting a warehouse that adheres to safety standards, regulatory compliance, and environmental practices, you safeguard your valuable assets, protect your workforce, and demonstrate your commitment to responsible business practices.
Conclusion
Choosing the right warehouse in Dubai is crucial for streamlining your logistics, optimising costs, and ensuring smooth business operations. Whether you need climate-controlled storage, a free zone facility, or an open yard for oversized goods, Dubai offers a wider types of warehouse options to fit different business needs.
By prioritising location, safety, compliance, and technology, you can make an informed decision that boosts efficiency and long-term profitability. Regularly evaluate your warehousing strategy as your business evolves to stay ahead of market demands.
Looking for reliable warehouses in Dubai? Cargoz can help you find the perfect storage solution tailored to your needs. Contact our team today!
FAQs
1. What are the advantages of a Free Zone Warehouse?
A Free Zone Warehouse provides 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and duty-free trade, making it ideal for import/export businesses looking to streamline logistics and reduce costs.
2. How much does warehouse storage cost in Dubai?
Storage costs depend on size, location, duration, and facility type. AC warehouses cost more due to climate control, while Non-AC and Open Yard options are more budget-friendly.
3. Can I rent a warehouse in Dubai for a short-term project?
Yes! Many warehouses offer on-demand storage for short-term needs, available weekly, monthly, or yearly.
4. What type of warehouse is best for perishable goods?
For perishable goods, Cold Storage Warehouses are the best option. These facilities maintain temperatures between -20°C to +18°C and ensure proper humidity control for food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
5. Are warehouses in Dubai equipped with security systems?
Yes, most warehouses in Dubai have 24/7 security monitoring, CCTV surveillance, fire safety systems, and access controls to ensure safe and secure storage.
6. What is the minimum warehouse space I can rent?
Many warehouse providers offer flexible storage solutions, with minimum rental spaces starting from 10 sqft. Businesses can scale up storage as needed.
7. Can I store hazardous materials in Dubai warehouses?
Yes, but hazardous materials must be stored in licensed Chemical/Dangerous Goods Warehouses that comply with Dubai Municipality regulations and strict safety protocols.