Did you know that over 95,000 new business licenses are issued in the UAE every year? (Source: dubaided.gov.ae) That’s thousands of entrepreneurs making bold moves—but many miss one critical step: choosing the right business activity. Pick wrong, and you could face delays, rejections, or restrictions that stall your growth before you even start.
In this guide, we reveal the overlooked questions most investors forget to ask—and the answers that others charge premium fees to share. If you’re ready to launch your UAE business smarter, faster, and with full confidence, start with these 11 must-know business activities.
Table of contents
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What exactly are business activities in the UAE?
Business Activities define the official scope of work your company can do. These activities include trading, consulting, manufacturing, services, and more. Choosing the right ones is essential when applying for your license.
Your choice affects the license type, setup cost, and required approvals. Since rules differ by free zone or mainland, always verify the approved activity list before applying.
Picking activities that do not match your actual business can cause delays or fines. Also, business activities impact your company’s legal structure and visa options.
Proper selection ensures a smooth setup and future growth. Always consult a Business Consultant to avoid mistakes and speed up approval.
Why Is Choosing The Correct Business Activities So Important For a New Company?
Choosing the right Business Activities is not just a formality. It’s truly a cornerstone for your company’s success in the UAE. Get it wrong, and you could face many headaches down the line. We have seen this countless times over the past thirty years. So, understanding its importance from day one is absolutely key.
Here’s why this choice matters deeply for your business:
1. It Defines Your License Type
- Your chosen Business Activities directly tell the government what kind of license you need.
- For example, if you plan to buy and sell goods, you will need a commercial license.
- A professional license is required if you give advice. Picking activities outside your license means operating illegally.
2. It Affects Where You Can Operate
- Specific Business Activities are allowed only in certain zones.
- Some might be perfect for free zones, while others require a mainland setup.
- Your options for physical location may be limited if you select the incorrect activity.
- This also impacts your market access.
Key Differences: Mainland vs. Free Zone Activities
Activity Access by Jurisdiction
| Location | Activity Scope | Unique Rules | Governing Body |
| Mainland | Full UAE market access; 2,000+ activities | Needs local sponsor (mostly) | DED Dubai |
| Free Zones | Zone-specific activities (e.g., media in Dubai Media City) | 100% foreign ownership allowed | Respective Zone Authority |
| Offshore | International operations only | No physical UAE operations | Free Zone Authorities |
3. It Dictates Necessary Approvals
- Many activities need extra nods from government bodies.
- For example, a restaurant needs food safety approvals.
- A clinic needs health authority permissions.
- The extra steps you need to take are indicated by your activities.
4. It Influences Setup Costs
- Believe it or not, your Business Activities can change your setup fees.
- Some activities might have higher government charges.
- Others might require more expensive office space or special permits.
- This affects your initial budget significantly.
5. It Impacts Your Visa Quota
- Your chosen activities often decide how many visas your company can get for employees.
- Some industries have higher allocations due to their nature.
- Therefore, thinking about your staffing needs is crucial here.
6. It Shapes Future Growth
- What if you want to expand later? Your initial Business Activities should ideally allow for easy additions.
- Changing core activities can be costly and time-consuming.
- Planning helps your business grow smoothly.
7. It Prevents Legal Troubles and Fines
- Operating outside your licensed Business Activities is a serious issue.
- It can lead to heavy fines. Worse yet, your license may be revoked.
- This completely stops your operations. So, strict compliance is non-negotiable here.
8. It Affects Banking and Funding
- Banks extensively examine your business operations.
- They want to see a clear, legal purpose for your company.
- Matching your actual operations to your registered activities helps secure bank accounts.
- It can also make getting an investment easier.
9. It Ensures Smooth Customs Processes
- For trading business activities, your registered activities guide customs procedures. Incorrectly declared goods or mismatched activities can lead to delays at ports.
- This also causes extra import or export costs. Smooth trade relies on correct activity registration.
10. It Connects to the Business Activity List Dubai Uses
- The business activity list Dubai provides is a detailed guide.
- Each activity has a specific code.
- Your chosen activities link directly to this official system.
- Understanding this ensures your company aligns with local regulations from day one.
Examples of How It Affects Setup
| Scenario | Result |
| Choosing consulting but doing trading | License rejected or fined |
| Missing required NOC for media activity | The setup was delayed or stopped |
| Picking too many activities | Higher cost and longer approval time |
| Activity not listed in the business activity list in Dubai | Application denied or redirected |
Before You Choose, you must
- Always double-check the approved list for your chosen zone.
- Review if the trading business activities you want need extra steps.
- Use one of the updated guides published by the UAE government portals.
- Ask your business consultant to review the list before applying. Choosing your Business Activities is a foundational step.
- It’s not just a box to tick. It’s a strategic decision that affects every part of your company’s journey in the UAE.
Getting it right upfront saves you time, money, and stress later on. Always seek expert advice from professionals like Business Link UAE. They help ensure your choice fully supports your vision.
Where Can I Find the Official Business Activity List Dubai Uses?
To set up a company in Dubai, you must select the correct business activity. This step affects your license, setup, location, and costs. The Dubai government offers an official, detailed list that covers all approved company activities. You must review it before applying to avoid delays or rejection.
How to Access the Official Business Activity List?
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Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
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- Visit https://ded.ae
- to search UAE-wide activities and verify licenses.
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Ministry of Economy Unified Register
- Use the national platform at moec.gov.ae
- Search the full list using business keywords
- Filter by license type or sector
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Invest in Dubai Platform
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- Go to https://invest.dubai.ae
- Use the search tool to find your exact activity
- Works well for first-time investors
- Free Zone Authorities
- Check the official site of your chosen free zone (e.g., DMCC, DIFC, JAFZA)
- Each zone has its own approved list
- Activities must match the zone’s specific scope
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce
- Offers sector-specific guidance.
- Use it to understand trends in your field.
- Business Setup Firms
- Licensed consultants often have direct access to updated lists
- They can suggest activities based on your goals
- Saves you time and reduces application errors
- Tasheel and Amer Centers
- These local government service offices can help print or verify your activity
- Walk-in support available
Where to Find the Business Activity List
| Source | Website/Location | Type of List | Who Should Use It |
| DET (Mainland) | ded.ae | Full list (mainland) | Mainland companies |
| Invest in Dubai Platform | invest.dubai.ae | All activities | Beginners |
| DMCC, DIFC, JAFZA | Their official portals | Free zone-specific | Free zone setups |
| Tasheel or Amer Centers | Across Dubai | Printed or digital | Walk-in license support |
| Business Advisors | Setup consultants | All license types | Companies needing guidance |
Before You Choose: What to Check
- Does the activity match your actual business?
- Is it allowed in your preferred zone?
- Does it need extra government approval?
- Does it require a commercial, professional, or industrial license?
- How many visas does it support?
- Does your business name match the activity?
Sample Business Activities and License Requirements
| Business Activity | License Type | Free Zone Allowed | Extra Approval Needed |
| E-commerce | Commercial | Yes | No |
| Marketing Consultancy | Professional | Yes | No |
| Food Trading | Commercial | Yes | Dubai Municipality |
| Software Development | Professional | Yes | No |
| Logistics Services | Commercial | Some zones only | RTA |
Important Notes About Activity Selection
- You can choose more than one, but they must align with each other
- Certain zones limit the number of allowed activities
- Each activity has a unique code that you must include in your application
- Choosing unrelated activities may increase license costs
Why This Step Is So Important?
Selecting the right activity affects:
- Legal approval speed
- License classification
- Office space requirements
- Setup and renewal fees
- Visa quotas for staff
- Investor confidence
- Customs clearance, especially for trading business activities
Top 5 Activity Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Business Setup in Dubai
- Choosing an activity without checking zone restrictions
- Skipping the activity code on the application
- Picking services that don’t reflect your real operations
- Adding too many activities to one license
- Ignoring required government approvals
How to Avoid Costly Mistakes? 5 Rules to Choose the Right Business Activity in Dubai
1. Match Activities Precisely:
- For example, Accounting & Bookkeeping (code 6920003) differs from Accounting Machinery Rental. Choosing the wrong risk license rejection.
Sample Table from the Dubai Activity List
| Activity Code | Activity Name | License Type | Notes |
| 451001 | Car Trading | Commercial | Import/export permissions may apply |
| 620101 | IT Consultancy | Professional | Needs KHDA approval sometimes |
| 107100 | Bakery Production | Industrial | Requires Food Control approval |
| 702000 | Management Consulting | Professional | Often paired with a local partner |
| 477201 | Cosmetics Retail | Commercial | Store location approval is needed |
2. Check Hidden Requirements:
- Some activities, like acupuncture or tourism, need extra approvals (DHA or DTCM). Thus, review the related activities notes in DET’s list.
3. Use Smart Search Tactics:
- Search by keywords and codes. Why? Because names vary (e.g., 3D Printing = Additive Manufacturing).
4. Verify License Compatibility:
- Remember, commercial licenses cover trading business activities, while professional licenses fit consultants. Industrial licenses need factory space.
5. Update Regularly:
- Dubai added 150+ activities since 2023 (e.g., AI consulting). Hence, recheck lists every 6 months.
Final Checklist Before Applying
- Visit the official portals or get help from a licensed advisor
- Review all activity requirements and categories
- Confirm your chosen zone supports the activity
- Make sure you meet the permit or NOC needs
- Add the correct activity code to your license form
- Use one of the verified links for up-to-date details
Choosing the right business activities from the start saves time, money, and effort. The business activity list Dubai offers is your main tool for legal success. Always verify it with the right authority, and never assume an activity is allowed without checking first.
What are the 11 Steps required to Help Your New UAE Company choose the Best Business Activities?
Choosing the correct activities for your new UAE company is important. This decision shapes your license, legal scope, and growth path. Picking activities that fit your goals and market needs speeds up setup and avoids problems. Here’s a clear guide to help you decide smartly and confidently.
How to Decide Which Business Activities Are Right for Your New UAE Company?
1. Understand Your Core Business
- First, know what your company will actually do.
- Be specific about your products or services.
- This helps you find matching activities on the business activity list Dubai uses.
- For example, if you plan to sell electronics, pick trading activities related to electronics.
2. Check the Official Business Activity List Dubai Uses
- Always consult the latest list from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or your free zone authority.
- This ensures your chosen activities are valid and allowed in your preferred jurisdiction. Lists update regularly, so use the current versions.
3. Match Activities with Your License Type
- Business activities fall under commercial, professional, or industrial licenses. Make sure your activities align with the right license.
- For instance, consultancy usually needs a professional license, while import/export requires a commercial license.
4. Consider Your Jurisdiction Carefully
- Mainland and free zones have different rules.
- Some activities are restricted to specific zones.
- Trading business activities often have more flexibility in free zones.
- Check where your chosen activity can be legally performed.
5. Plan for Future Growth and Expansion
- Consider the goods or services you hope to offer in the future.
- Choose business activities that allow easy amendments or expansions.
- Avoid too narrow or vague activity descriptions, which limit your options and increase costs.
6. Look at Market Demand and Competition
- Research which activities are in demand and where there is space for new players.
- High-demand sectors like e-commerce, IT services, or healthcare offer better chances of success.
- Avoid oversaturated markets without a clear niche.
7. Review Costs and Requirements
- Some activities require special approvals, permits, or higher fees.
- Food and beverage, real estate, and healthcare activities often need extra permissions.
- Recognize these early on to ensure effective planning and budgeting.
8. Seek Expert Advice When Needed
- Consultants or company setup experts can save time and prevent errors.
- They know the latest regulations and help match your business idea to the correct activities and licenses.
9. Avoid Vague or Overly Broad Activity Choices
- Pick clear and precise activities.
- Vague descriptions cause delays or rejections from licensing authorities.
- For example, instead of general services, specify digital marketing services.
10. Check Impact on Visa and Employee Quotas
- Some activities influence the number of visas and employees you can sponsor.
- Choose activities that fit your workforce plans.
11. Consider the Legal and Regulatory Environment
- Some sectors have strict compliance rules.
- Healthcare, education, and financial services require extra checks.
- Factor this into your decision.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Business Activities
| Factor | What to Check | Why It Matters |
| Core Business Fit | Match activities to your actual products/services | Ensures legal compliance and smooth licensing |
| Official Business Activity List | Use the latest list from DET or the free zone authority | Avoids rejected applications |
| License Type | Commercial, Professional, Industrial | Correct license avoids fines and delays |
| Jurisdiction | Mainland vs Free Zone restrictions | Determines where you can legally operate |
| Future Growth | Flexibility to add related activities | Saves costs and effort for expansions |
| Market Demand | Research popular and profitable sectors | Improves business chances |
| Costs & Approvals | Extra permits, fees, or approvals needed | Budgeting and legal compliance |
| Expert Advice | Use a setup consultant if unsure | Avoids mistakes and speeds up the process |
| Activity Clarity | Avoid vague or broad terms | Prevents license rejections |
| Visa & Employee Impact | Check how activity affects sponsorship | Plans for hiring and staffing |
| Regulatory Environment | Know sector-specific rules | Prepares for compliance and inspections |
Practical Steps to Choose Your Business Activities
- Write down your main business idea clearly.
- Review the business activity list Dubai uses online.
- Select activities that match your business idea closely.
- Identify the license type required for each activity.
- Decide if a mainland or a free zone suits your needs.
- Check for extra approvals or permits needed.
- Consider future services or products you want to add.
- Estimate costs, including fees and permit charges.
- Consult with a business setup expert for guidance.
- Submit your application with accurate activity descriptions.
Choosing the right business activities is crucial. It impacts your company’s legal standing, costs, and long-term success in the UAE. Use this guide to pick activities that fit your business clearly and comply with regulations. Doing so makes your startup journey smoother and faster.
Core Types of Business Activities
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Operational Activities
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- These create your product or service.
- Examples: manufacturing, trading, service delivery.
- They require specific licenses and setups.
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Marketing Activities
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- Drive sales and customer engagement.
- Includes market research, advertising, and distribution.
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Financial Activities
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- Manage company funds and investments.
- Includes budgeting, reporting, and financing.
Categories of Business by Activity Type
| Type | Description | Examples |
| Service | Provide expertise or labor | Consulting, IT services, legal advice |
| Merchandising | Buy and sell finished goods | Retail stores, auto dealerships |
| Manufacturing | Convert raw materials into finished products | Clothing factories, steel mills |
Trading Business Activities in Dubai
- Buying and selling products both domestically and abroad is known as trading.
- Dubai has special benefits, such as tax-free zones, a prime location, and first-rate infrastructure.
- Common trading activities: general trading, electronics, foodstuff trading.
- Each trading activity may require specific approvals and license types.
Navigating the Business Activity List in Dubai
Dubai’s regulatory framework is strict. Here’s what to know:
- Be precise. Avoid vague descriptions to prevent legal issues.
- Select pursuits that complement your real business.
- Commercial, professional, industrial, freelance, and tourism licenses are all applicable.
- Mainland licenses allow business across the UAE; Free Zone licenses offer benefits but restrict operations.
- Some activities require special permits from government bodies.
Popular Business Activities and Their Licenses in Dubai
| Business Activity | License Type | Example Free Zone / Mainland |
| Software Development | Professional | Dubai Internet City |
| Precious Metals Trading | Commercial | DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) |
| Legal Advisory Services | Professional | Mainland (DED) |
| Travel & Tourism | Tourism | Dubai Tourism Free Zones |
| General Trading | Commercial | Mainland (DED) |
| Manufacturing | Industrial | Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) |
| E-commerce Operations | Commercial | Dubai CommerCity |
| Healthcare Services | Professional | Dubai Healthcare City |
| Education & Training | Professional | Dubai Knowledge Park |
Top Business Picks for New UAE Companies (2025 Guide)
Many new companies in the UAE select business activities that meet current market needs. They also choose those that benefit from the country’s business-friendly environment.
Why? Because some activities simply offer smoother starts, better profits, and faster growth. Below, find the most common picks—and why they work.
1. E-commerce & Online Retail
- Why popular: UAE’s online sales will hit $10B by 2026. Low startup costs (from AED 5,500) and remote operation flexibility attract many.
- License type: Commercial, often from free zones like DMCC or Dubai CommerCity.
- Focus on niches like eco-products or local crafts to stand out.
2. Digital Marketing Agencies
- Why popular: Dubai’s ad spend exceeds $1.2B yearly. Businesses desperately require social media and SEO help.
- License type: Professional license from media free zones (e.g., Dubai Media City).
- Startup cost: ~AED 5,500 for virtual office setups.
3. Management Consultancy
- Why popular: Flexible, low-overhead, and serves Dubai’s booming startup ecosystem.
- License type: Professional license from SHAMS or IFZA.
- Covers HR, finance, or operations advice without extra permits.
4. IT Services & Software Development
- Why popular: The Government pushes like Smart Dubai, fueling demand for app dev, AI, and cybersecurity.
- License type: Tech-focused free zones (e.g., Dubai Internet City).
- Growth hack: Partner with accelerators for grants.
5. Food and Beverage
- Why popular: UAE’s tourism and expat population craves diverse dining. Cloud kitchens cut rental costs.
- License type: Commercial license + Dubai Municipality approval.
- Warning: Requires strict hygiene certifications.
6. Tourism and Travel Services
- Why popular: Dubai drew 18.5M tourists in 2024. Luxury trips, yacht rentals, and desert safaris all make significant profits.
- License type: Tourism license + DTCM approval.
- Partner with hotels for bundled packages.
7. Renewable Energy Solutions
- Why it’s popular: The UAE’s Net Zero 2050 initiative encourages recycling and solar energy projects.
- License type: Industrial or consulting license.
- Incentive: Subsidies up to 30% for green tech.
8. Real Estate Advisory
- Why popular: High commissions (2–5%) from expat buyers chasing Golden Visas.
- License type: Requires RERA certification + DED license.
- Barrier: AED 100,000 bank guarantee for brokerages.
9. Education and Training
- Why popular: UAE prioritizes upskilling; e-learning demand surged 200% since 2023.
- License type: Free zone license (e.g., Dubai Knowledge Park).
- Niche: AI/coding courses for professionals.
10. Freelance Creative Services
- Why popular: Zero office costs. Graphic design, content writing, and coaching thrive here.
- Type of license: RAKEZ or Dubai Media City freelance permission.
- Ease: Setup in 48 hours.
11. Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Why popular: The UAE is a major trade hub, needing efficient movement and storage of goods.
- License type: Commercial or industrial licenses in free zones like JAFZA.
- Opportunity: Growing e-commerce fuels demand for warehousing and freight forwarding.
Top 5 Activities: Mainland vs. Free Zone
| Activity | Best in the Mainland? | Best in Free Zone? | Why? |
| E-commerce | Limited | Yes (DMCC) | 100% ownership and customs benefits |
| Real Estate Advisory | Yes | No | Mainland access is needed for property deals |
| IT Services | Possible | Yes (DIFC) | Tech incentives and multiple visa options |
| Consultancy | Possible | Yes (SHAMS) | Lower setup fees and no local sponsor needed |
| Freelance Work | No | Yes | No office required; flexible work structure |
License Types & Costs
| Activity | License Type | Avg.. Cost (AED) | External Approvals Needed? |
| E-commerce | Commercial | 7,500 | Customs code |
| Healthcare Consultancy | Professional | 15,000+ | DHA / MOHAP approval |
| Tourism Services | Tourism | 12,000 | DTCM permit |
| Food Trading | Commercial | 10,000 | Dubai Municipality |
| Freelance Design | Freelance Permit | 5,500 | None |
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Business Activity in Dubai
- Match activities to real work—never guess. For example, IT Consultancy ≠Software Development on licenses.
- Free zones win for startups. Why? Because 100% ownership and lower fees beat mainland bureaucracy.
- Check hidden costs. Tourism or healthcare activities need annual permit renewals.
- Start narrow, then expand. Adding unrelated activities increases fees by up to 200%.
- Verify with official sources. Dubai’s business activity list updates monthly—never rely on old PDFs.
Newcomers succeed fastest in e-commerce, consultancy, and digital services. Why? Because low setup costs, flexible rules, and exploding demand let them scale before heavy investments kick in. Always—always—cross-check your activity code with the DED’s latest list.
Setting Up Business in Dubai: Your Clear Cost Breakdown
Launching your venture in Dubai involves specific expenses. Naturally, understanding these costs upfront prevents surprises. Let’s break down the essentials transparently.
Key Costs Involved
Here’s what you’ll realistically pay when establishing operations:
Government Licensing Fees
- First, expect AED 5,000–30,000 annually.
- This fee varies by activity type and location (mainland vs. free zone).
- For instance, consulting licenses often cost less than industrial permits.
Trade Name Registration
- Typically around AED 600–1,500.
- You’ll reserve this with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Importantly, name approval comes before license issuance.
Office Space Rentals
- Costs start at AED 15,000/year for flexi-desks.
- Alternatively, physical offices range from AED 25,000–100,000+ annually.
- Free zones like DMCC or SHAMS include space in packages.
Visa Processing Charges
- Budget AED 3,000–7,000 per employee visa.
- This covers medical tests, Emirates ID, and residency stamps.
- Remember, costs multiply with team size.
Local Sponsor Fees (Mainland Only)
- Annually, AED 10,000–30,000.
- You must do this unless you fully own the company.
- Conversely, free zones grant full ownership.
Additional Permits
- Specialized activities (e.g., food, healthcare) incur extra fees.
- For example, environmental approvals might cost AED 1,000–5,000.
- Always check the business activity list in Dubai for specifics.
Bank Account Setup
- Initial deposits range from AED 5,000–50,000.
- Service fees add AED 300–500/month.
- Notably, digital banks offer lower thresholds.
Legal & Translation Services
- Document attestation costs AED 800–2,000.
- Similarly, legal consultation fees average AED 200–500/hour.
PRO Services
- Outsourcing government paperwork costs AED 500–1,500/month.
- This saves significant time for complex filings.
Renewals & Compliance
Set aside AED 3,000–10,000 yearly. This includes license renewals and audit fees.
Cost Comparison: Mainland vs. Free Zone
| Cost Type | Mainland (AED) | Free Zone (AED) | Notes |
| License Fee | 7,000–30,000 | 10,000–50,000 | Free zones often bundle services |
| Office Requirement | Physical mandatory | Flexi-desks allowed | Free zones offer virtual options |
| Ownership | Requires a local partner | 100% foreign ownership | Key advantage for free zones |
| Visa Allocation | Linked to office size | Fixed per package | Free zones clarify upfront quotas |
| Renewal Complexity | Medium–High | Low–Medium | Free zones streamline the process |
Smart Cost-Saving Tips
1. Choose Free Zones Wisely
Compare packages. For example, RAKEZ suits startups, while DMCC fits commodities trading business activities.
2. Start Virtual First
Use flexi-desks to delay physical office costs.
3. Bundle Services
Many free zones include visas and permits in license fees.
4. Hire Part-Time PROs
Pay per task instead of monthly retainers.
Here’s the table in clean, readable text format:
Typical Cost Summary
| Cost Component | Free Zone Range (AED) | Mainland Range (AED) |
| License | 10,000–15,000 | 15,000–50,000+ |
| Office (flexi to full) | 5,500–30,000 | 30,000–100,000+ |
| Visa & Emirates ID | 3,000–7,000 per person | 3,000–7,000 per person |
| Govt. & PRO fees | 3,000–7,000 annually | 3,000–15,000 annually |
| Approvals (permits) | 2,000–10,000+ | 2,000–10,000+ |
| Consultant & Legal | 5,000–15,000 setup | 5,000–20,000+ setup |
Planning prevents budget overruns. Always factor in hidden costs like translations or urgent filings. Consequently, consult a local expert early. Dubai rewards preparation—your thriving enterprise starts here.
Summary
Still unsure which 11 business activities new UAE companies should choose? Don’t wait. Business Link helps you review your goals, compare legal types, and choose smart. Every choice shapes your cost, growth, and license. Start strong. Avoid mistakes. Reach out to Business Link now for expert support. Your next move in the UAE begins with the right business activities—make it count.
FAQ’s
What Business Activities can I set up in the Dubai mainland?
You can register nearly any commercial, service, or industrial activity on the mainland.
Because mainland licences cover local clients, choose from trade, professional, industrial, or tourism activities, then apply through the DED.
Can I combine trading business activities with services under one licence?
Yes. Many small firms combine trading and services on a single commercial licence.
You just pick the right activity codes from the trading business activities list and apply them accordingly.
What is the difference between mainland, free zone, and offshore Business Activities?
- Mainland: Sell across the UAE; office required.
- Free zone: Export-driven; may not sell locally without a distributor.
- Offshore: No local activity; ideal for holding or asset protection.
How many Business Activities can I add to one trade licence?
- You can choose multiple activities—usually up to 2–3 under one licence.
- More may need extra approvals or a second licence.
- Be sure to check your free zone or DED requirements.
How do I update or add Business Activities to my existing licence?
- Submit a licence amendment via the DED or your free zone authority.
- You pay a small fee and get approval in a few days.
Do Business Activities affect the visa quota?
Yes. Your chosen activities influence how many employee visas you can apply for.
Certain trades let you sponsor more staff, while service or office-based activities may support fewer visas.
Can I use Business Activities to secure a bank account?
- Definitely. You need your licence showing your registered activity to open a corporate bank account.
- Banks also check if your activity matches your business plan and projected cash flow.
