Foreign investors can open companies in Dubai or in one of its free zones. Aside from being requested to choose the type of company they want to incorporate, enterprisers will also be required to apply for additional licenses related to the field the company will operate in. What must be taken into consideration is that each free zone will issue its own special licenses or permits depending on its own regulations.
Our company formation agents in Dubai can assist you in opening companies in the Emirate and in one of its free zones.
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Types of special licenses in Dubai
There are three types of business licenses, one can apply for in Dubai:
- the trade or commercial license which allows a company to operate in the trading field;
- the industrial license which allows a company to operate in the industrial and manufacturing sectors;
- the professional license which allows one to offer consultancy and professional services.
The professional license also addresses craftsmen and artisans.
However, there are also businesses such as restaurants that need to apply for additional special permits in Dubai. Those who want to open a restaurant in Dubai are required to apply for a food license with the Food Control Department in the Emirate. Those operating in the tourism industry are required to obtain a special license: the travel agent license, which is divided into subtypes depending on the activities to be provided. There are also other types of activities requiring special permits or licenses from competent authorities.
Special permits in Dubai free zones
As mentioned above, each free zone issues its own types of special licenses or permits depending on the activities a company will carry out. Each free zone has its own special status and is dedicated to certain activities. An example is the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) which specializes in offering financial services. Among the special licenses and permits available in Dubai free zones are:
- general trading licenses;
- trading licenses;
- industrial licenses;
- national industrial licenses;
- service licenses.
If you want to open a company in Dubai and need assistance in applying for any special permit, do not hesitate to contact our local consultants.