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Business establishment in the UAE

Where can your business be licensed?

7 mainland authorities, 39 free zones and 3 offshore registrars, with different activity lists, ownership rules and approvals. Start from what you will do.

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In the UAE, the first decision is where to license: on the mainland, in one of more than forty free zones, or offshore for holding.

The Dubai skyline
Seven emirates, 40+ free zones
Authorities by emirateOperating modelsActivity searchOfficial tools

Business activity search

126 common activities mapped to the authorities that typically license them, with the extra approvals each one needs.

126 activities found
General tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Broad goods trading; some items (food, chemicals, medical) need extra approvals.
Foodstuff tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens)
Electronics and mobile phones tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthDICKEZADMasdar CityADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsTDRA approval for telecom equipment and services
Building materials tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthTechnoparkKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Auto spare parts tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthDUCAMZKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Used car tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDUCAMZ
Extra approvalsRoads and transport authority approval (e.g. RTA, ITC)
Garments and textiles tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai Southd3KEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Cosmetics and perfumes tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC)
Products registered with the municipality or health authority.
Medical equipment tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDubai SouthDSPDHCCKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSharjah Healthcare CityAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsMOHAP / health authority product and premises licence
Pharmaceutical tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDubai SouthDSPDHCCKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSharjah Healthcare CityAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsMOHAP / health authority product and premises licence
Gold, jewellery and precious stones tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCGold & Diamond Park
Oil, gas and petroleum products tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODubai SouthMaritime CityTechnoparkKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsEnvironment authority approval
Agricultural produce and seeds tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsMinistry of Climate Change and Environment approval
Furniture tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai Southd3KEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Security and surveillance equipment tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthDICKEZADMasdar CityADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsPolice / security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai, police in other emirates)
Heavy equipment and machinery tradingTrading
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODubai SouthTechnoparkKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Commercial agencyTrading
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesNone typical
Commercial agencies are reserved for UAE nationals or wholly UAE-owned companies under the Commercial Agencies Law.
E-commerce (online retail)E-commerce and digital trade
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthCommerCitySHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Social media and e-trader salesE-commerce and digital trade
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthDMCDSC / DPCd3CommerCitytwofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Dubai offers an e-Trader licence for individuals.
Dropshipping and fulfilmentE-commerce and digital trade
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDubai SouthCommerCityKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Online marketplace platformE-commerce and digital trade
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODubai SouthDICCommerCityMasdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Management consultancyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Project management servicesProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Accounting and bookkeepingProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
AuditingProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsFinancial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)
Auditors must be registered with the Ministry of Economy.
Tax consultancyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Tax agents register with the Federal Tax Authority.
Legal consultancyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesDIFCDWTC FZADGM
Extra approvalsLegal affairs department licence for legal practice
Advocacy before UAE courts is restricted; legal consultancy needs the emirate’s legal affairs licence.
Human resources consultancyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Recruitment and manpower supplyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsMOHRE licence for recruitment and labour supply
Private employment agencies need a MOHRE licence.
Marketing and advertising consultancyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Engineering consultancyProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Engineering offices are classified by the municipality.
Architectural designProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZd3ADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Interior designProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZd3SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Translation servicesProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Legal translation needs Ministry of Justice registration.
Public relations servicesProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Business centre and PRO servicesProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Real estate brokerageProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsLand department / RERA registration (Dubai) or equivalent
Mostly mainland; brokers register with the land department.
Real estate developmentProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDIFCADGM
Extra approvalsLand department / RERA registration (Dubai) or equivalent
Property and facilities managementProfessional and consulting services
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Software developmentTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICMasdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
IT consultancy and systems integrationTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICMasdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Artificial intelligence and data servicesTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICMasdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Cybersecurity servicesTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZADSODICMasdar CitySRTIPRAK DAO
Extra approvalsPolice / security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai, police in other emirates)
Data centre and cloud servicesTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZADSODubai SouthDICCommerCityKEZADMasdar CityADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSRTIPAFZRAKEZRAK DAOFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsTDRA approval for telecom equipment and services
Telecommunications equipment installationTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZADSODICTechnoparkKEZADMasdar CitySAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSRTIPAFZRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsTDRA approval for telecom equipment and services
ELV, CCTV and access control installationTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICMasdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsPolice / security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai, police in other emirates)
Installers need police/security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai).
Audio visual systems installationTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54Masdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Video games developmentTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAMeydan FZDSODICDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54Masdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Virtual asset servicesTechnology and AI
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesDMCCDWTC FZADGMRAK DAO
Extra approvalsVirtual-asset regulator: VARA (Dubai), FSRA (ADGM) or SCA
Regulated: VARA in Dubai, FSRA in ADGM, SCA elsewhere.
Blockchain developmentTechnology and AI
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZADSODWTC FZDICADGMMasdar CitySRTIPRAK DAO
Fintech and payment servicesTechnology and AI
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesDIFCADGM
Extra approvalsFinancial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)
General building contractingConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
Contractors are graded by the municipality; mostly mainland.
Fit-out and interior contractingConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZd3SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
MEP contractingConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
Aluminium and glass worksConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Steel fabrication and erectionConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Landscaping and irrigationConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsMinistry of Climate Change and Environment approval
Swimming pool construction and maintenanceConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Cleaning servicesConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Pest controlConstruction, real estate and contracting
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsEnvironment authority approval
RestaurantHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesKEZADHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZ
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens); Civil Defence approval for premises
Mostly mainland. Free zones allow outlets only inside their own premises.
Café and coffee shopHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesKEZADHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZ
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens); Civil Defence approval for premises
Cloud kitchenHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens); Civil Defence approval for premises
Catering servicesHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesKEZADHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZ
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens)
Bakery and sweetsHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesKEZADHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZ
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens)
Hotel and hotel apartmentsHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsTourism authority approval (e.g. DET tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi); Civil Defence approval for premises
Food processing and packagingHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens)
Event managementHospitality, food and beverage
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Medical clinicHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDSPDHCCSharjah Healthcare City
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC); Civil Defence approval for premises
Dental clinicHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDSPDHCCSharjah Healthcare City
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC); Civil Defence approval for premises
Diagnostic laboratoryHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDSPDHCCTechnoparkMasdar CitySRTIPSharjah Healthcare City
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC)
PharmacyHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDSPDHCCSharjah Healthcare City
Extra approvalsMOHAP / health authority product and premises licence
Physiotherapy and rehabilitationHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDSPDHCCSharjah Healthcare City
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC)
Telehealth platformHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZADSODICDSPDHCCMasdar CitySRTIPSharjah Healthcare CityRAK DAO
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC)
Beauty salonHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens); Civil Defence approval for premises
Salons are mainland and inspected by the municipality.
Spa and massage centreHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsHealth regulator: DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi), MOHAP (northern emirates) or DHCR (DHCC); Civil Defence approval for premises
Fitness centre and gymHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
Nutrition and wellness consultancyHealth, beauty and wellness
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDSPDHCCSHAMSSPC FZSharjah Healthcare CityAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Training centreEducation and training
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDKP / DIACSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsEducation regulator: KHDA (Dubai), ADEK (Abu Dhabi), SPEA (Sharjah) or MOE
NurseryEducation and training
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsEducation regulator: KHDA (Dubai), ADEK (Abu Dhabi), SPEA (Sharjah) or MOE; Civil Defence approval for premises
Private schoolEducation and training
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsEducation regulator: KHDA (Dubai), ADEK (Abu Dhabi), SPEA (Sharjah) or MOE; Civil Defence approval for premises
Higher education institutionEducation and training
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDKP / DIACRAKEZ
Extra approvalsEducation regulator: KHDA (Dubai), ADEK (Abu Dhabi), SPEA (Sharjah) or MOE
E-learning platformEducation and training
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICDKP / DIACMasdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Tutoring and coachingEducation and training
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDKP / DIACSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsEducation regulator: KHDA (Dubai), ADEK (Abu Dhabi), SPEA (Sharjah) or MOE
Freight forwardingLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDubai SouthCommerCityKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Warehousing and storageLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADAFZADSODubai SouthCommerCityTechnoparkKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Courier and last-mile deliveryLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDubai SouthCommerCityKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsRoads and transport authority approval (e.g. RTA, ITC)
Land transport and haulageLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADAFZADubai SouthCommerCityKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsRoads and transport authority approval (e.g. RTA, ITC)
Customs brokerageLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADAFZADubai SouthCommerCityKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZFujairah FZ
Ship management and charteringLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADAFZADubai SouthCommerCityMaritime CityKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZFujairah FZ
Ship and yacht repairLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesMaritime CityHamriyah FZFujairah FZ
Aviation services and charterLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesDubai SouthADAFZSAIF Zone
Needs GCAA approval.
Car rentalLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsRoads and transport authority approval (e.g. RTA, ITC)
Limousine and passenger transportLogistics, transport and marine
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsRoads and transport authority approval (e.g. RTA, ITC)
Light manufacturing and assemblyManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
Industrial licences may also need the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology registration.
Food and beverage manufacturingManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsMunicipality food-safety approval (and civil defence for kitchens); Civil Defence approval for premises
Plastics and packaging manufacturingManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsEnvironment authority approval
Metal fabricationManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
Furniture and joinery manufacturingManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsCivil Defence approval for premises
Chemicals and paints manufacturingManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsEnvironment authority approval; Civil Defence approval for premises
Building materials manufacturingManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesJAFZADSOTechnoparkKEZADSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZAFZRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsEnvironment authority approval
Printing and publishingManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesMeydan FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsUAE Media Council approval for media and publishing
Renewable energy and clean techManufacturing and industry
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZADSODICTechnoparkKEZADMasdar CitySAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSRTIPAFZRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZFujairah FZ
Media productionMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesMeydan FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsUAE Media Council approval for media and publishing
Advertising agencyMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsUAE Media Council approval for media and publishing
Digital marketing and social media managementMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCDAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDICDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54Masdar CitySHAMSSPC FZSRTIPAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZRAK DAOUAQ FTZCreative City
Content creation and influencer activityMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsUAE Media Council approval for media and publishing
Paid promotion needs a UAE Media Council advertiser permit.
Photography and videographyMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Graphic and brand designMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Music and audio productionMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesMeydan FZDMCDSC / DPCd3twofour54SHAMSSPC FZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Fashion designMedia and creative
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZd3SHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Holding companyFinance and holding
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Offshore registrars (RAK ICC, JAFZA Offshore) are also used for holding.
Family officeFinance and holding
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesDIFCADGM
Extra approvalsFinancial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)
Investment in commercial enterprisesFinance and holding
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDIFCDSODWTC FZADGMSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Insurance brokerageFinance and holding
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDIFCADGM
Extra approvalsFinancial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)
Money exchange and remittanceFinance and holding
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsFinancial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)
Strategic-impact activity: Central Bank licence and ownership conditions apply.
Fund managementFinance and holding
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesDIFCADGM
Extra approvalsFinancial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)
Travel agencyTourism, leisure and agriculture
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsTourism authority approval (e.g. DET tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi)
Tour operator and desert safariTourism, leisure and agriculture
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsTourism authority approval (e.g. DET tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi)
Cruise and boat toursTourism, leisure and agriculture
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesMaritime CityHamriyah FZFujairah FZ
Extra approvalsTourism authority approval (e.g. DET tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi); Roads and transport authority approval (e.g. RTA, ITC)
Nursery and plant tradingTourism, leisure and agriculture
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCJAFZADAFZAIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZDubai SouthKEZADADAFZSAIF ZoneHamriyah FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZFujairah FZCreative City
Extra approvalsMinistry of Climate Change and Environment approval
Agriculture and farmingTourism, leisure and agriculture
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesKEZADMasdar CityHamriyah FZSRTIPAFZRAKEZ
Extra approvalsMinistry of Climate Change and Environment approval
Fisheries servicesTourism, leisure and agriculture
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsMinistry of Climate Change and Environment approval
Strategic-impact activity: fish-trap services remain reserved for UAE nationals.
Security guarding servicesSecurity
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsPolice / security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai, police in other emirates)
Strategic-impact sector; police licence and ownership conditions apply.
Security consultancySecurity
MainlandAll 7 emirates
Free zonesDMCCIFZAMeydan FZDSODWTC FZSHAMSSPC FZAFZAjman Media CityRAKEZUAQ FTZCreative City
Extra approvalsPolice / security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai, police in other emirates)
Cash-in-transitSecurity
MainlandConditions apply
Free zonesNone typical
Extra approvalsPolice / security approval (e.g. SIRA in Dubai, police in other emirates); Financial regulator: CBUAE, SCA, DFSA (DIFC) or FSRA (ADGM)

Indicative guide checked against public sources in November 2026. Authorities change activity lists, fees and rules often, and each zone’s list differs in detail. We confirm every activity and approval with the authority before you commit.

UAE set-up questions

How do I find which business activities I can license in the UAE?

Start from what the business will actually do. Our activity search maps common activities to the authorities that license them and the extra approvals needed; the final code is confirmed on the authority portal, such as the Dubai DET activity search or the UAE National Economic Register.

What is the difference between a mainland and a free zone company in the UAE?

A mainland company is licensed by the economic department of an emirate and can trade anywhere in the UAE, including with government. A free zone company is licensed by a free zone authority, is fully foreign owned by design, and trades inside its zone and internationally; selling onshore needs a distributor, a mainland branch or, in Dubai, a DET permit.

Can a foreign investor own 100% of a UAE mainland company?

Yes, for most commercial and industrial activities since the 2021 amendments to the Commercial Companies Law. Activities with a strategic impact under Cabinet Resolution No. 55 of 2021, such as security, banking and exchange, and some fisheries services, still carry ownership conditions or extra approvals.

Not sure which route fits?

Send us your activities and where your customers are. We will come back with a jurisdiction comparison and the approvals you need.

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