Dubai Business Setup: Specialty v/s Activities, Which is right for you?

Dubai Business Setup: Specialty v/s Activities, Which is right for you?

Apart from the general legalities, another important part of setting up new business in the UAE is to choose an activity or multiple activities to apply for a licence. Usually, very few business activities have restrictions, and only a handful are prohibited.

If you are already specialised in a certain field, choosing a business activity will be a breeze. Also, for broader business categories like ‘retail’ or ‘trade’ there are multiple options, distinct sectors, and several specialised activities.

Did you know, free zones are broadly classified by industry, so it is pretty easy to find the right fit for you. For example, there are well-established hubs like Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai Multi-Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai Media City (DMC), Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA), and several others. And added advantage is that some of the newer free zones offer greater flexibility such as professional, commercial and industrial activities combined into a single business license.

Another point to note is that it is important to identify the exact nature of your proposed business, and activities for a mainland business licence in Dubai. Dubai offers more than 1,000 business activities for 100% owned business, including but not limited to contracting and construction, gold and jewellery, cargo and shipping, food and water, education and hospitality.

We are experts at business setup in Dubai, and you can rely on us to match your current needs and future plans to the right jurisdiction and rightful business activities.