Plant and Machinery Valuation in the UAE: Methods, Standards and When You Need One
By Bill Anderson, FCCA, Chief Executive Officer, Assetica — 2026-07-02
How plant and machinery valuation works in the UAE: methods, RICS/IVS standards, typical costs, and when banks, insurers or the FTA require one.
When a UAE business needs a plant and machinery valuation
The trigger events are predictable. Bank financing: UAE banks lending against equipment or offering asset-based facilities require an independent valuation of the collateral, usually on both a market value and a forced sale basis. Insurance: insurers price cover on reinstatement cost, and a valuation sets declared values properly. Financial reporting: IFRS permits the revaluation model under IAS 16, and impairment testing under IAS 36 needs supportable recoverable amounts. Corporate tax and transfer pricing: intra-group transfers of equipment need arm's length values the FTA can accept. Transactions: buyers of manufacturing, logistics and construction businesses want the asset register verified and priced. Liquidation and disputes: courts and liquidators need forced sale values determined independently.
Bases of value: the same machine, three defensible numbers
There is no single value. Market value assumes a willing buyer and seller with proper marketing time. Forced sale or liquidation value assumes constrained time and is routinely 40 to 60 percent below market value for specialised plant. Depreciated replacement cost starts from the cost of a modern equivalent asset and deducts physical, functional and economic obsolescence; it anchors insurance and financial reporting work. A production line can simultaneously carry a market value in continued use of AED 8 million, an in-exchange value of AED 5 million and a forced sale value of AED 3 million, and all three are correct for their purpose.
How valuers assess equipment
A proper engagement combines inspection with market evidence. The valuer verifies the asset register, inspects condition, hours and maintenance history, then prices each significant asset via the market approach (comparable sales of used equipment, using the Gulf's active secondary market of auction results, dealer listings and re-export prices), the cost approach (depreciated replacement cost from current new prices, freight and installation into the UAE, less obsolescence), or the income approach where an asset generates identifiable cash flows. Under the RICS Red Book and IVS, the method, evidence and assumptions must be disclosed.
What moves machinery value in the UAE market
Installation costs are high, so value in situ differs materially from value in exchange. Technology obsolescence hits printing, plastics and CNC equipment faster than accounting depreciation assumes. The UAE's position as a re-export hub supports used equipment prices for mobile plant, generators and trucks. Climate shortens economic lives through corrosion and cooling loads. Complete service records, import papers and manuals earn a visible premium over identical undocumented machines.
Equipment we commonly value
Construction and earthmoving equipment, priced against an active regional resale and auction market. Manufacturing and production lines, including CNC, injection moulding, printing and packaging, where technology obsolescence moves faster than book depreciation. Oil, gas and energy process equipment and generators, often needing income-approach analysis. Marine and maritime vessels and support equipment. Logistics and fleet assets including trucks, forklifts and material handling. F&B and healthcare equipment, each with its own regulatory and depreciation considerations.
Free zones and industrial hubs we work across
Machinery valuation work concentrates in the UAE's industrial free zones and manufacturing hubs: JAFZA and DIP in Dubai, KIZAD and ICAD in Abu Dhabi, and Hamriyah Free Zone and SAIF Zone in Sharjah, the UAE's manufacturing heartland. Site inspections are scheduled across all of them as part of a standard engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a machinery valuation and a business valuation?
A business valuation prices the company as a going concern, including intangibles and future earnings. A plant and machinery valuation prices the physical assets themselves on a stated basis of value. Lenders, insurers and liquidators usually need the asset-level number; buyers and shareholders usually need both.
Is a machinery valuation accepted by UAE banks and insurers?
Yes, provided it is independent, prepared to RICS or IVS standards, states the basis of value and is signed by the valuer. Banks typically want market value and forced sale value; insurers want reinstatement cost. Assetica prepares reports in the format each relying party expects.
What documents are needed for a plant and machinery valuation in the UAE?
The fixed asset register, purchase invoices or import documentation for major items, maintenance records, and details of any finance or leases over the equipment. A site inspection then verifies condition and completeness.
How much does a machinery and equipment valuation cost in Dubai?
Fees depend on the number of significant assets, locations to inspect and the purpose of the report. A single-site register is considerably less than a multi-site industrial portfolio. Assetica scopes the engagement in a free consultation and quotes a fixed fee before work begins.
Does old or fully depreciated equipment still have value?
Often yes. Accounting depreciation and market value are different things: a machine written down to zero on the books can still have real resale or in-use value, particularly in the UAE's active secondary market for used industrial equipment.
Do you value equipment leased or held on finance?
Yes. Leased and finance-encumbered equipment is valued on the same bases, with the finance or lease terms disclosed separately so lenders, auditors or buyers can see the gross asset value and the encumbrance side by side.
Speak to Assetica about Business Valuation
Assetica is an independent business valuation firm in Dubai. We do not audit and we do not broker deals, so the number carries no conflict. Read more about business valuation, or book a free scoping call. Standard reports are issued in five to seven business days.