Computer assembly remains a viable niche in Dubai despite the dominance of branded global manufacturers. Custom workstations, gaming PCs, server systems, and specialised industrial computers continue to drive B2B demand from corporate IT, hospitality, gaming, and technical sectors. Dubai's role as a regional electronics transshipment hub, handling 60 to 70% of GCC connector imports¹, provides natural advantages for computer assemblers serving the wider region.

The global PCB assembly market is valued at USD 99.2 billion in 2025, growing to USD 161.6 billion by 2035,² with computer hardware as a key end-use sector. Dubai's growing data centre, gaming, and corporate IT markets create steady demand for custom-built systems that branded suppliers cannot easily provide.

This licence covers assembly of finished computers from components, distinct from PCB-only assembly or peripheral manufacturing.

2620.99 - Computer Assembling

Under this activity, you are in the business of operating a licensed computer assembling business, assembling custom desktops, workstations, servers, and industrial computers for corporate IT, gaming, content creation, and B2B technology clients.

Services are delivered under the relevant regulatory oversight with appropriate facilities, systems, and qualified personnel.¹

What Does the Computer Assembling Licence Cover?

•             Custom desktop assembly: assembling workstations, gaming PCs, and content creation systems to client specifications.

•             Server and rack-mount assembly: assembling enterprise servers and rack systems for data centres and corporate IT.

•             Industrial computers: ruggedised and specialised systems for industrial automation, kiosks, and embedded applications.

•             Pre-configured systems: assembling and configuring batches of standard systems for corporate or institutional rollouts.

•             Quality testing and burn-in: in-house testing and stability validation before delivery.

Who Is This For?

•             Custom PC builders serving gaming, content creation, and high-performance computing markets.

•             System integrators serving corporate IT and data centre clients.

•             Industrial computer specialists for automation and embedded applications.

•             Hospitality and retail technology providers assembling kiosk and POS systems.

Activity Scope

This licence covers final assembly of computers from components. It does not cover component manufacturing or retail sales.

In short: if you assemble finished computers from components, you are in. If you manufacture raw components or operate as a retail computer store, you need different licences.

Licensing & Compliance

Standard free zone licensing applies. Computers sold within the UAE should comply with relevant safety and EMC certifications. Software licensing must comply with publisher requirements, pre-installed software requires proper authorisation.

Cost & Investment

Setup costs at Dubai South Business Hub start from approximately AED 12,500 to AED 22,000 per year for licence and office package. Equipment investment is modest for assembly operations. Use the cost calculator for tailored pricing.

Setup Steps

1.          Verify name with company name check.

2.          Select Computer Assembling (2620.99) from the business activities directory.

3.          Choose office and workshop package.

4.          Submit passport copies, MOA, and lease.

5.          Receive licence within 5 to 10 working days.

6.          Process visas for staff.

Why Dubai for Computer Assembling?

Dubai's electronics import infrastructure provides ready access to components for custom and small-batch assembly. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership and tax efficiency. Growing data centre construction, gaming sector expansion, and corporate IT modernisation in the UAE create steady B2B demand for custom-assembled systems.

References

1.          IndexBox, PCB Connector Market in Middle East: indexbox.io

2.          Future Market Insights, PCB Assembly Market: futuremarketinsights.com/pcb-assembly-market

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this licence cover?

Final assembly of computers from components, including desktops, servers, custom workstations, and industrial systems.

Can I sell directly to consumers?

Free zone licences are typically B2B oriented. Retail consumer sales typically require additional retail licensing.

Can I install operating systems and software?

Yes, with proper software licensing. OEM and volume licensing arrangements with publishers are required for pre-installed software.

How much does setup cost?

From AED 12,500 to AED 22,000 annually depending on package.

Can I assemble servers for data centres?

Yes, server and rack-mount assembly for enterprise clients is within scope.

How long does setup take?

5 to 10 working days for licence issuance.

Do I need third-party approval?

Standard free zone approval is typically sufficient. Product certifications apply for sale in specific markets.

Can I import components freely?

Yes, free zones allow duty-free imports for re-export. Local sales attract standard duties.

Can I serve clients across the GCC?

Yes, free zone licences allow regional invoicing.

What office space do I need?

A dedicated workshop with assembly stations, sized to volume. Flexi-desks generally do not work for this activity.

Can I sponsor staff visas?

Yes, visa quotas scale with office and workshop size.

Is the licence renewable annually?

Yes, annual renewal is standard.

Can I add IT services or trading later?

Yes, compatible additional activities can be added at renewal.