Service centers in Dubai
List of Government Transaction Centers in Dubai You can access government services through a wide network of service centers located across the emirate. Government Transaction Center Abdulwahed Bin Shabib Government Transaction Center Al Maarefh Government Services Center Al Marwa Government Transactions LLC Al Yalayis Government Transaction Center Allied Unik Business Center Alnazih Government Services Center […]
Request to Book a Trade Name
This service enables you to obtain an official government document that verifies your project’s trade name. It is required for contracts, official documents, and business transactions. You may reserve your trade name before or after receiving initial approval. Reserving a trade name is a crucial step in establishing your business in Dubai. This process ensures […]
Request for initial approval
This is the initial step in obtaining your trade license, allowing you to define your legal structure, economic activities, and business partners. You can complete this step either before or after reserving your trade name. Purpose of this request: Documents required You will need the following to make a request for initial approval: Fees The […]
Gather your essential documents
If you’re new to Dubai, ensure you have a tourist/visit visa – if you don’t have a valid entry visa, you won’t be able to set up a business. Then, all new businesses require the following documents for initial approval: For public shareholding companies and private joint-stock companies, you will also require: Branches of companies […]
Start Your Company Registration Process
Registering a business in Dubai involves three key steps to obtain your trade license. Steps to Obtain Your Business License in Dubai 1. Initial Approval The Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) reviews your trade license application and documents, granting initial approval for your business to operate within the jurisdiction. This approval allows you […]
Additional approvals
Certain industries require additional approval processes. For sectors such as food and beverages, healthcare, aviation, education, communication, transportation, and insurance, you’ll need to obtain extra No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) and supporting documents. Some activities also mandate approvals from external authorities—please refer to the list below, which details the relevant ministry or agency to contact for each […]
Restrictions on Foreign Ownership
Discover which business activities are not eligible for 100% foreign ownership. Although Dubai companies with full foreign ownership can engage in most activities, certain categories are restricted from this privilege. Before initiating the business setup process, please review the list of these restricted activities below and plan accordingly. If you intend to establish a company […]
Mainland or Free Zone, How to choose?
Launching a business in Dubai When launching a business in Dubai, your initial key choice is selecting its location: either in one of Dubai’s numerous free zones or in the “mainland” area. Making a well-informed decision about the company’s jurisdiction is crucial, along with grasping the meanings of “mainland” and “free zone.” Freezone are generally […]
Abu Dhabi DED
Abu Dhabi DED Shapes Emirate’s Economic Future March 13, 2025 – The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (DED), often branded as ADDED, stands as the linchpin of the emirate’s economic strategy. Tasked with steering Abu Dhabi toward a diversified, knowledge-driven future, Abu Dhabi DED regulates the business landscape and fuels growth beyond oil, positioning […]
Ajman DED Targets 7% Growth Surge as 2025 Unfolds
Ajman DED’s 2025 Playbook: The Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) logged 6.5% growth in 2024, eyeing 7% in 2025 with a $10 billion GDP in sight. Trade, tourism, and SMEs fuel the rise, cutting construction’s share below 30%. Free zones and digital licensing keep Ajman DED ahead, though trade risks linger.