Launch Your Business in
2,400+ Approved UAE Economic Activities

The UAE offers one of the world’s most diverse business landscapes, with opportunities across commercial, industrial, professional, and emerging sectors. From traditional trading to cutting-edge tech ventures, SEEN helps you navigate:

  • Government-approved activity lists (DED, DMCC, ADGM)

  • Sector-specific licensing requirements (healthcare, education, fintech)

  • Freezone vs. mainland restrictions

  • Future-proofing for evolving regulations (e.g., AI, crypto, sustainability)


  • Operate locally and internationally from the world’s top trade hub

  • Full control in free zones + newly liberalized mainland sectors

  • 0% corporate tax (free zones) | 9% mainland tax only above AED 375K profit

  • Some licenses approved in 48 hours (e.g., IFZA e-commerce)

  • Golden Visas for investors | Unlimited employee visas (mainland)

  • Our PROs handle: DHA health licenses | TRA tech approvals | MOE education permits

UAE Business License Types - Industry Specializations

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General Trading License

Covers import/export of multiple product categories (exclusions apply). Best for: Wholesalers, distributors.

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Consultancy License

For management, HR, or business advisory services. Freezone options allow 100% ownership.

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Professional License

Services requiring qualifications (accounting, law, engineering). Mainland requires local sponsor.

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Construction License

Building contracting & materials trading. Requires MOE approval for large projects.

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Industrial License

Manufacturing/processing goods. Needs factory plan approval from municipalities.

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E-commerce License

Online retail/services. Freezone virtual licenses available (no physical office).

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Real Estate Brokerage License

Property buying/selling/leasing. Requires RERA certification.

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Jewellery Trading License

Precious metals/gems trading. DMCC offers specialized vault facilities.

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Ready-Made Garments Trading

Apparel wholesale/retail. Textile compliance labels mandatory.

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Mobile Phones & Accessories Trading

Electronics distribution. TRA type-approval required for devices.

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Motor Vehicles Trading License

Car dealerships/spare parts. Requires showroom in most emirates.

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Cosmetics & Perfume Trading

Beauty product sales. Requires DHA/ESMA product registration.

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Food & Beverage Trading

F&B import/distribution. Needs Dubai Municipality/FDA approvals.

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Auto Parts Trading License

Vehicle components. Customs code classification essential.

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Tourism License

Tour operations/travel agencies. DTCM approval mandatory.

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IT Consulting License

Software/cybersecurity services. Some free zones offer crypto add-ons.

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Events Management License

Conferences/exhibition planning. Security deposit often required.

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Freelance Permit

For individual professionals (designers, writers). No office needed in free zones.

Industry-Specific Business Setup FAQs

Which UAE license covers the most business activities?

The General Trading License covers the widest range of activities, allowing you to trade multiple unrelated products under one license.

Can I get a single license for both trading and services?

Yes. Several free zones and mainland authorities issue dual-activity licenses that combine trading and professional services, subject to approval of the specific activities.

Do I need physical office space for an e-commerce license?

Not necessarily. Many free zones accept flexi-desk or virtual-office packages, while mainland e-commerce setups usually require a physical office.

What’s the fastest way to get a food trading license?

Apply through a free zone that permits food trading, then obtain the necessary approvals from the Dubai Municipality (or the relevant food-safety authority).

Which license is best for freelance professionals?

Freelancer permits from zones such as RAKEZ, Fujairah Creative City, or SHAMS are cost-effective and visa-eligible for creatives, consultants, and digital specialists.

Can foreigners get a real-estate brokerage license?

Yes, provided they become UAE residents, pass the RERA exam, and meet all additional regulatory requirements.

How many visas come with an industrial license?

Visa quotas depend on the size of your facility and the licensing authority’s policy; industrial licenses typically grant more visas than standard commercial licenses.

Is FDA approval needed for cosmetics trading?

No. Cosmetics must instead be registered with the UAE Municipality (e.g., Dubai Municipality) for safety and compliance.

What’s the capital requirement for a jewelry license?

There is no actual capital requirement in most cases. While some authorities may ask for a declared capital amount (e.g., AED 150,000), you are not required to deposit it unless specifically requested by the licensing authority.

Can I upgrade my freelance permit to a full company later?

Yes. You can convert a freelancer permit into an LLC or sole establishment, enabling you to add shareholders, hire staff, and expand your activity list.

Ready to start a conversation?

Our expert team is here to answer your questions and guide you toward the right license for your needs. Get in touch today and discuss how Seen can help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

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