The demand for poultry products in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is on the rise, fueled by a growing population and booming hospitality industry. Consumers and businesses that are seeking fresh, locally produced chicken and eggs are driving strong demand across the country.
Poultry farming plays a crucial role in advancing the UAE’s food security goals. With the government’s support for domestic food production, poultry farming is a national priority – and a lucrative business opportunity. The UAE’s strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and agricultural innovation make it an ideal environment for investors and entrepreneurs.
In our blog – Start a poultry farm in the UAE [2025 Guide] – we will bring you the insights to enter this vital and fast-growing sector. From regulations and infrastructure costs to tips for success, this guide is your first step to building a profitable poultry farm business in the UAE.
Start a poultry farm in UAE: Step-by-step
1. Join Worldwide Formations
The first step is to partner with Worldwide Formations. We are business formation experts, and our team of specialists guides entrepreneurs and investors in establishing companies such as poultry farms in Dubai and across the UAE. Our mission is to save you time, money, frustration, and headaches – so you can get on with growing your business.
2. Determine your business activities
All businesses in the UAE must hold a valid and relevant business license. For poultry farming, this means a livestock or poultry farming license issued by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Before applying, you must select the appropriate business activities your company will provide. With over 2,000 such activities to choose from, it’s crucial to get this step right – incorrect selection can result in delays and penalties. Fortunately, Worldwide Formations’ highly experienced team will support you throughout the process to ensure full compliance.
3. Choose a legal structure and business jurisdiction
The next step is to choose a legal structure and business jurisdiction for your poultry farm business in the UAE. The UAE offers a range of legal structures, including an LLC, sole proprietorship, and more.
At the same time, you must also select a business jurisdiction for your poultry farm company. Two main types are available: mainland business or free zone business setup. Each offers advantages, but your business goals will determine which setup is best for you. Free zone setups are the most popular business setup types in the UAE, thanks to benefits such as efficient business operations, 100% ownership, and tax incentives.
4. Apply for a business license
When applying to the MOCCAE for your livestock or poultry farming license, you must submit a completed license application form as well as various documents, such as your business plan, copies of the business owner’s passport, proof of address, and relevant approvals from government departments and other external authorities.
5. Open a corporate bank account
Opening a corporate bank account is the final step before you can legally operate your poultry farm in the UAE. Worldwide Formations will help you select a corporate bank best suited for agricultural and poultry farming enterprises.
Regulatory approvals needed to start a poultry farm in the UAE
Starting a poultry farm in the UAE requires obtaining multiple licenses and permits from the relevant authorities. Here are the key regulatory approvals needed:
• Livestock or poultry farming license
• Veterinary establishment license
• Feed import compliance certificate
• Environmental and Health clearances
• Land usage permits
• Transportation permits from the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) or MOCCAE
Key costs and infrastructure setup
The investment required to start a poultry farm in the UAE varies significantly depending on the scale of the operations. Here is an outline of the key costs and infrastructure setup:
• Land lease: AED 20,000 – 60,000 annually
• Equipment: AED 50,000 – 150,000
• Chicks: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per 1,000 birds
• Monthly feed costs: AED 8,000 – 10,000
• Staff costs: AED 10,000 – 25,000 monthly (farm manager, farmhands, veterinary technician)
Investing in proper ventilation, water systems, and waste and biosecurity infrastructure is essential for animal welfare, public health, and regulatory compliance. These are outlined in the Ministerial Resolution No. 316 of 2023. These include:
• Ventilation and climate control: proper airflow, heating, cooling, and lighting systems are required
• Water supply and distribution: safe, automated drinking systems are essential for bird health
• Waste management: includes manure collection, storage, and disposal facilities that meet UAE solid waste standards
• Biosecurity measures: quarantine zones and access controls to protect birds from disease
• Shed layout and construction: purpose-built poultry houses with hygiene and animal care best practices
How to run a successful poultry farm in the UAE
1. Use quality chicks
Source day-old chicks (either broiler or layer) from certified, disease-free hatcheries approved by MOCCAE.
2. Hire skilled staff
Hire experienced poultry farm managers and farmhands and a licensed veterinary professional as required by UAE law.
3. Invest in quality feed
Invest in sourcing nutritionally balanced feed and maintain proper feeding schedules, as feed accounts for up to 80% of a poultry farm’s running costs.
About Worldwide Formations
Business setup in Dubai is streamlined and straightforward – when you team up with experts like Worldwide Formations, that is. We boast over 20 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and investors not only move to the UAE but also start or expand their businesses in the domestic market, regionally, and internationally.
No matter if this is your first poultry farm or business venture or you’re a seasoned farmer and serial entrepreneur, Worldwide Formations’ expert team will guide you from the first step to the last – and offer comprehensive support thereafter, too.
Start your agricultural empire now. Contact Worldwide Formations today.
