Dubai is one of the world’s leading economic centers, providing an ideal environment for business and investment. Dubai is characterized by the diversity of its economic sectors, making it a preferred destination for many investors and entrepreneurs. The list of business activities in Dubai is one of the most important tools that help identify suitable investment opportunities, as it includes a wide range of activities covering various fields. Through this list, investors can choose the business activity that suits their vision and investment goals, which contributes to the success of their projects in one of the most dynamic and advanced cities in the world. We will review many details about establishing companies and the list of business activities in Dubai .

 

List of Business Activities in Dubai

The list of business activities in Dubai is a set of economic activities and sectors that investors and companies can operate in within the emirate. This list includes many activities that cover various fields such as trade, industry, services, and tourism. Investors can choose the activity that suits them when establishing their companies in Dubai, as they must obtain the necessary licenses for each activity. The list of business activities in Dubai includes:

1. General trade: includes import, export, distribution and sale of various products.
2. E-commerce: It is related to selling products and services over the Internet.
3. Industrial activities: such as manufacturing, production and assembly in areas such as technology, clothing and food.
4. Financial services: includes banks, insurance companies, and brokerage.
5. Tourism and Hospitality: Includes operating hotels, restaurants, and travel and tourism companies.
6. Logistics and transportation: related to freight forwarding, land, sea and air transportation.
7. Health services: such as operating hospitals, clinics and health centers.
8. Educational services: include the management and operation of schools, institutes and training centers.
9. Professional services: such as legal, engineering and accounting consultancy. Each business activity requires a specific license from the Department of Economic Development or other relevant authorities in Dubai. This list provides great flexibility to investors and allows them to enter the diverse and sophisticated Dubai market.

Types of commercial licenses in Dubai

In Dubai, business licenses vary based on the type of business activity and location (free zone or onshore). Business license types vary to meet different business needs. Here are the most important types of business licenses in Dubai:

• General Commercial License: Granted to companies that carry out traditional commercial activities such as retail, product distribution, and commercial services.
• Industrial License: Granted to companies involved in industrial activities such as manufacturing, production and assembly. This license includes activities related to heavy and light industries.
• Professional License: Granted to businesses that provide professional services, such as legal, engineering, medical, and training consultations. This license includes activities that rely on professional experience and skills.
• Tourism License: Granted to companies operating in the field of tourism and hospitality, such as operating hotels, hotel apartments, travel offices, and tourism agencies.
• E-commerce license: granted to companies that operate online, such as e-commerce, digital marketing, hosting services and electronic development.
• Special Activity License: Granted for activities that require special licenses or approvals from regulatory authorities. This license includes activities related to chemicals, weapons, and health products.
• Free Zone License: This license is granted to companies that register in Dubai’s free zones. This license provides special benefits such as full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and ease in import and export procedures.
• Company Branch License: This is granted to companies that wish to open a branch in Dubai. The branch can be affiliated with a local or international company and must comply with local laws.
  Each type of business license has specific registration requirements and procedures. It is advisable to consult specialists or consulting companies such as Itqan to get accurate information about the type that is most suitable for your business and the procedures required to obtain it.

How to set up a company in Dubai with the help of Itqan Company

Company formation in Dubai with the help of “Itqan” company involves several basic steps aimed at facilitating the process and ensuring that all legal and administrative requirements are met. Here are the steps you can follow:

• Initial consultation: The process begins by contacting Etqan to obtain advice on the options available for company formation based on the type of business activity and preferred location (free zone or onshore area).
  Etqan will assist you in determining the appropriate type of legal entity (limited liability company, joint stock company, etc.).
• Select business activity: You choose the business activity you wish to practice from the list of approved activities. Itqan can advise on the activities that are most suitable for your goals.
• Select location: Itqan will help you choose the right location for your company, whether in a free zone or in a land area, based on your business requirements.
• Document preparation: Itqan will assist you in preparing and compiling the documents required for company registration, such as articles of association, lease contracts, identity documents, etc.
• Submitting applications: Itqan will submit applications for commercial licenses and company registration with the relevant government agencies, such as the Department of Economic Development or the General Authority for the Free Zone.
• Open a bank account: Itqan helps you open a bank account for the company in a local bank, which is necessary to manage the company’s financial affairs.
• Obtaining licenses: After completing all procedures, you will obtain the commercial licenses required to practice your activity in Dubai.
• Providing additional services: “Itqan” provides additional services such as legal consultations, preparing annual reports, and updating data with government agencies.
• Ongoing Support: After the company is established, Itqan provides ongoing support in managing legal and administrative affairs, allowing you to focus on growing your business.
  Working with Itqan ensures that you benefit from its expertise in dealing with legal and administrative procedures, making it easier for you to establish and giving you peace of mind while starting your business in Dubai.

Documents required to establish a company in Dubai

Establishing a company in Dubai requires submitting a set of basic documents to ensure that the procedures are carried out correctly. The required documents vary depending on the type of company, the business activity, and the location (free zone or onshore). Here is a list of the basic documents required to establish a company in Dubai:

• Establishment request: The company establishment application form obtained from the Department of Economic Development or the authority concerned with the free zone.
• Articles of Association and Agreements: A copy of the articles of association and other legal documents that detail the company and its structure.
• Founders’ Identity: Passports of founders, directors and shareholders (with translated copies if not in English).
• Personal photos: Recent headshots of founders, directors and shareholders.
• Action plan: A business plan that outlines the company’s goals, strategies, and activities.
• Proof of company address: A lease contract for the company’s headquarters in Dubai, or an agreement with a virtual office provider if established in a free zone.
• Letter from the bank: A letter from a bank confirming that a bank account has been opened in the company’s name and that the minimum capital has been deposited if required.
• Business Activity Permit: A detailed description of the business activity the company will be conducting, which is essential to obtaining the appropriate license.
• Tax Number: In some cases, you may need to obtain a company tax number.
  Work and Residence Visa Permit: Work and residence visa applications for founders, directors and employees, if required.
• Approval from the competent authorities: Special approvals from government agencies or regulatory authorities if the business activity requires it.
  Be sure to consult a specialized company such as “Itqan” to ensure that all requirements specific to the type of company and its activity are met, as details can vary based on the sector, location, and business activity.

In conclusion of our article on the list of business activities in Dubai , we find that the city offers wide and diverse investment opportunities that meet the needs of various economic sectors. The diversity of business activities available reflects the strength and flexibility of the UAE economy, making Dubai an ideal destination for investors and entrepreneurs alike. By taking advantage of the encouraging investment environment, advanced infrastructure, and stimulating tax policies, investors can choose the activity that suits their vision and business goals. A good understanding of the list of business activities in Dubai helps in making informed decisions and increases the chances of success in a vibrant market full of opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions List of Business Activities in Dubai