As fitness becomes more popular in the UAE, the demand for high-quality fitness apparel, equipment, and sports accessories is rising as well. Currently, the UAE acts as a strong trading hub for international sports brands. However, there are also several manufacturers who focus on specific areas such as sportswear and fitness equipment.
The retail scene for sports goods in the UAE is quite vibrant, with a mix of international brands, local chains, and independent stores. Popular names like Adidas, Nike, Puma, Under Armour, and Decathlon have a strong presence in the UAE. Along with these are established chains like Sun & Sand Sports and GO Sports, with multiple locations around the region. Online shopping has gained traction too, with ecommerce platforms at the forefront of the retail industry.
The UAE’s sports products market itself is projected for growth due to a rising interest in fitness and sports activities. There’s also a notable increase in outdoor activities, such as watersports, that are driving demand for specialized gear. It’s clear that the potential for domestic manufacturers here is strong.
Of course, domestic manufacturers can choose their own method of retail – be it through independent stores or by strategically selling their sports products at established chains.
For aspiring entrepreneurs who want to begin by establishing their sports goods manufacturing business in the UAE, here are the activities that SPC Free Zone recommends:
3230.00 – Manufacture of Sports Goods
Manufacture of Sports Goods involves the production of equipment and articles used in various sports and athletic activities. This includes a wide range of items designed for both indoor and outdoor sports.
Specific products within this category encompass balls, rackets, bats, clubs, skiing equipment, sailboards, fishing gear, hunting and climbing equipment, sports gloves, headgear, skates, bows, crossbows, and gym equipment. Essentially, any item used for sporting or athletic purposes, excluding clothing and footwear, falls under this classification.
3230.01 – Manufacture of articles and equipment for sports, outdoor and indoor games, of any material: hard, soft and inflatable balls, rackets, bats and clubs, skis, bindings and poles, ski boots, sailboards and surfboards, requisites for sport fishing, including landing nets, requisites for hunting, mountain climbing etc., leather sports gloves and sports headgear, ice skates, roller skates etc, bows and crossbows, gymnasium, fitness center or athletic equipment
This includes items used in team sports, individual sports, and outdoor activities. Examples include balls, rackets, skis, fishing gear, hunting equipment, and gym equipment. Essentially, it covers any physical object used for sporting or athletic purposes.
The manufacture of sports goods excludes a variety of related products such as sports apparel, footwear, and saddles. Additionally, it doesn’t cover boats, billiard tables, or sporting weapons and ammunition. Other excluded items are boat sails, whips, metal weights used for weightlifting, automatic bowling alley equipment, and ear and noise plugs.
- Third-party Approval: No third-party approvals are required for these business activities
- Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activities 3230.00 and 3230.01 are exempt from this requirement
- Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activities 3230.00 and 3230.01 are exempt from this requirement
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