The UAE solar energy market is among the fastest-growing globally, valued at USD 1.19 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 4.66 billion by 2031 at 21.5% CAGR. Installed solar capacity is expected to grow from 6.91 GW in 2025 to 11.25 GW by 2030 at 10.24% CAGR, supported by aggressive government targets including the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 (75% clean energy) and Energy Strategy 2050 (50% clean energy).
The MENA region forecasts 180 GW of solar capacity by 2030, with the UAE as a regional leader. The country plans to invest AED 150 to 200 billion through 2030 to triple renewable energy capacity from 14.2 GW to 19.8 GW. Wood Mackenzie projects MENA solar manufacturing capacity could reach 44 GW by 2029, with the region achieving solar module self-sufficiency by 2026.Â
This license supports the UAE's drive to localise solar manufacturing and assembly, reducing dependence on imports and creating regional supply chains for the GCC market.
2710.97 - Solar Panels Assembling
Under this activity, you are in the business of operating a licensed solar panels assembling business, assembling photovoltaic modules from solar cells, glass, EVA, backsheet, and frame components for the UAE and regional renewable energy markets.
Services are delivered under the relevant regulatory oversight with appropriate facilities, systems, and qualified personnel.Â
What Does the Solar Panels Assembling License Cover?
Solar PV module assembly: assembling crystalline silicon panels from solar cells, glass, EVA, backsheet, and frame.
Bifacial and TOPCon panel assembly: assembling next-generation high-efficiency modules.
Customised solar panels: sizes and configurations for specific projects, residential rooftops, and commercial installations.
Quality testing and certification preparation: EL testing, IV curve testing, and certification sample preparation.
Packaging and project-ready delivery: palletising and preparing panels for shipment to project sites.
Who Is This For?
Solar panel assemblers serving UAE and GCC renewable energy projects.
Module manufacturers targeting utility-scale and rooftop solar installations.
Custom solar producers serving project-specific size and configuration requirements.
Sustainability-focused entrepreneurs entering the renewable energy supply chain.
Activity Scope
This license covers solar PV panel assembly. It does not cover solar cell manufacturing (a separate, more capital-intensive industrial activity) or solar installation services on construction sites.
In short: if you assemble finished solar panels from cells and components, you are in. If you manufacture raw solar cells from silicon, you need different industrial licensing. Installation work has its own activity code (4322.97).
Licensing & Compliance
Standard free zone licensing applies. Solar panels sold in the UAE require Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA) certification and IEC 61215 (crystalline silicon modules) and IEC 61730 (safety) compliance.â´ Equipment for solar power generation enjoys zero-rated VAT and tax/duty advantages within the first ten years of certification.â´
Cost & Investment
Setup costs at Dubai South Business Hub start from approximately AED 18,000 to AED 30,000 per year for license and industrial warehouse package. Equipment investment is significant, module assembly lines, lamination presses, and testing equipment require considerable capital. Use the cost calculator for tailored pricing.
Setup Steps
1. Verify name with company name check.
2. Select Solar Panels Assembling (2710.97) from the business activities directory.
3. Choose industrial warehouse package matching production scale.
4. Submit passport copies, MOA, lease, and equipment specifications.
5. Receive license within 7 to 15 working days.
6. Process visas for technical staff.
Why Dubai for Solar Panels Assembly?
The UAE's aggressive renewable energy targets and regional leadership in solar create exceptional market conditions for assemblers. Free zones offer 100% foreign ownership, tax-free imports of solar manufacturing equipment, zero-rated VAT on solar generation equipment, and direct logistics access for both component imports and finished module distribution. UAE government investment of AED 150 to 200 billion in renewable energy through 2030 underwrites long-term demand growth.
