How do you choose the right business activity for your company in Dubai?
The activity is the first decision, and the license, authority and cost are built on it. Here are the questions that help you choose correctly.
Why does the activity matter?
The activity you write on the license is the only thing you are entitled to carry out. It determines the license type, the licensing authority, the extra approvals, and sometimes the best path for you.
Choosing an activity broad enough is better than choosing a narrow one and then needing to amend the license later.
Five questions to help you choose
- 1
What will you sell?
Products, services, or both?
- 2
Who are your customers?
Inside the UAE or outside it?
- 3
How will you sell?
A physical shop, a website, or through intermediaries?
- 4
Do you need a warehouse or an office?
Some activities require a specific premises.
- 5
Is the activity regulated?
Food, health, education and others need approvals.
License types by activity
Commercial
For trade, distribution and retail.
Professional
For services, consulting and design.
Industrial
For manufacturing, processing and production.
Talk to a lawyer before you sign anything.
Thirty minutes with a formation adviser — we understand your venture and map the right path and the real cost. No obligation.
Common questions, clear answers.
Can more than one activity be added?
Yes in many cases, but each extra activity may add fees or approvals. We show this in the written quote.
Can the activity be changed later?
It's possible by amending the license with the licensing authority, and it may involve fees and procedures.
How do I know if my activity needs approval?
Use the free search tool on our site, or ask us and we'll identify the authority and approvals.
Thirty minutes with a formation adviser. No obligation.
Your first consultation is free.
Tell us about your idea — we reply within working hours with a clear roadmap.
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