This is applicable to all kinds of manufacturing, production, packaging, segregation or collection, including the manufacturing of food, textiles, paper, petroleum products, and equipment and appliances. NB: After getting the industrial licence you will need to obtain external approvals from relevant government departments in order to begin operations.

This licence is for you if your business revolves around buying and selling of most goods and services, including import and export, logistics, physical products, software, construction, and real estate.

This type of licence is for individuals who offer professional services based on their intellectual or artistic abilities.

If you’re a home-based individual or entrepreneur who sells products and services via social media or other online platforms, this licence is for you.

Dual licensing allows companies operating in specific free zones to extend their presence to the mainland without the hassle of leasing additional office space or partnering with a local shareholder. This is currently available in collaboration with five free zones: Dubai CommerCity Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA) Dubai Design District (d3) Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) One Central (Dubai World Trade Centre Authority)

This involves two or more partners who are jointly and separately liable for the company’s obligations using their personal funds.

A company formed of one or more general partners who have joint and separate liability, or one or more limited partners who have limited liability proportional to their capital shares.

This is a company owned by two or more partners practising a professional activity such as tailors, beauty salons, consultancy or training, etc.

A business owned by one person, who is personally liable for all financial obligations and liabilities incurred by the business.

The Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism reviews your trade licence application and documents, and gives initial approval for your business to be established in the jurisdiction. Initial approval allows you to proceed with the next step, such as securing business premises. Find out more about applying for initial approval , or visit a service centre .