DED License Activities List in UAE

Dubai's vibrant economy and strategic location attract aspiring business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors. The emirate offers diverse business licenses, each suitable for specific business activities, from which you can choose one to establish a business in UAE's Mainland. To ensure a smooth setup process, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with DED (Department of Economic Development) License activities in the UAE. These activities encompass various sectors, including trading, manufacturing, professional services, and tourism. By understanding the DED License framework, you can choose the most suitable license for your business venture. This article provides information and lists the DED Trader License Activities in UAE.

Filings.ae helps you to set up your business in UAE Mainland with expert assistance!

What is a DED License in UAE?

A DED (Department of Economic Development) license in Dubai is an official permit required for businesses to operate within the UAE Mainland legally. It is issued by the Development of Economic Development, the governmental authority responsible for regulating and promoting economic activity. The DED license categorises businesses into different types, such as commercial, industrial, and professional, based on their specific activities. Getting the DED License involves meeting various regulatory requirements, including submitting the necessary documentation, securing local sponsorship for certain types of businesses, and complying with the emirate's legal and commercial regulations.

Types of DED Licenses in UAE

There are several DED licenses in UAE, each catering to a specific business activity. Here are the most common ones:

• Commercial License: This is the most popular DED license, ideal for businesses involved in trading activities like buying and selling goods. This could include retail stores, supermarkets, and import/export businesses.
• Professional License: This license is required for individuals or companies providing professional services such as consultancy, engineering, IT services, legal advice, and more.
• Industrial License: This license is mandatory for businesses manufacturing goods in Dubai. This could include factories, production units, assembly plants, and similar ventures.
• Tourism License: This license is required for businesses operating in the tourism sector, such as travel agencies, hotels, resorts, restaurants catering to tourists, and more.

What are DED Trader License Activities in UAE?

The Department of Economic Development (DED) in  UAE plays a crucial role in regulating and accelerating the emirate's economic growth. One of its key functions is issuing business licenses. Here, we'll delve into the specific activities allowed under each DED Trader License:

1. Commercial License:

Ideal for businesses involved in trading activities, a Commercial License grants permission for a wide range of operations in Dubai, including:

• Communications & Broadcasting 
• Video & Audio Recordings
• Passenger Transportation & Car Rentals
• Brokerage Services
• Trading & Distribution of Various Products
• Theaters & Cinemas
• Facility Management
• Rental Services (including office spaces & electronic equipment)
• Postal Services
• Livestock Trading
• Investment Activities
• Insurance Services
• Perfumery & Packaging Services
• Property Investment
• Motor Vehicle & Motorcycle Trading
• Cleaning & Surveillance Services
• Supermarkets & Stores

2. Industrial License:

This license suits to businesses engaged in manufacturing activities within Dubai. Here's a glimpse into the permissible activities under an Industrial DED License:

• Manufacturing (general)
• Machines & Appliances
• Food Processing
• Woodworking & Wood Products
• Steel Fabrication
• Electricity Generation & Transmission
• Textile & Product Fabrication
• Petroleum Products Production
• Motorcycles & Replacement Parts
• Chemical Manufacturing
• Gold & Precious Stone Cutting
• Garment & Rug Production
• Ship Construction
• Waste Collection & Disposal
• Plastics Manufacturing
• Glass Repair & Lens Cutting
• Eyeglasses Production
• Leather Products Manufacturing
• Paper Products Manufacturing

3. Professional License:

A Professional DED License is required for individuals or companies providing professional services. This license permits activities such as:

• Accounting & Finance Consultancy
• Agriculture & Soil Consultancy
• Animal Welfare Societies
• Business Forums & Advisory Councils
• Management Consultancy
• Marketing & Information Services
• Hospitals & Rehabilitation Facilities
• Insurance Consultancy
• Beauty Salons
• Legal Assistance
• Translation & Typing Services
• Representative Offices
• Social Clubs & Social Work Activities

By understanding the specific activities covered under each DED Trader License, you can ensure you choose the most suitable license for your business operations in Dubai.

Also read: DED E-Trader License in Dubai

How to Choose the Appropriate DED License Business Activity?

Here's a guide to choosing the appropriate DED License business activity in UAE:

1. Identify Your Core Business Activity: This is the most crucial step. Clearly define what your business does and the primary service or product you offer.
2. Match Your Activity to the License Category: DED licenses fall under three main categories: Commercial, Industrial, and Professional.
3. Check for Specific Activity Listings: Within each DED license category, there might be a list of specific permitted activities. Carefully examine the list of DED or relevant authorities provided to ensure your exact activity is covered under the chosen license.
4. Consider Related Activities: Some may be related but not explicitly listed if your business involves multiple activities. In such cases, DED might include them under the main activity as long as they are complementary and not a significant portion of your business.
5. Seek Professional Advice: For complex business structures or unsure about the best fit, consult a Filings.ae business setup specialist. We can guide you through the requirements and ensure you obtain the most suitable license.

How to Obtain a DED License in Dubai?

Obtaining a DED license in Dubai involves choosing your core business activity and gathering the required documents (application form, passport copies, photos, etc.). Consider using a Local Service Agent for assistance, then submit your application for initial DED approval. Secure a physical location if needed, pay the license fees, and finally collect your official DED license to operate your business legally.

To get detailed instructions: How to get DED License in Dubai?

DED License Cost in Dubai

The DED license in Dubai cost can vary significantly depending on several factors. These factors include the type of business activity, the size and location of the business, and the number of partners or shareholders involved. Additional costs may also arise from required approvals, sponsorship fees for foreign entrepreneurs, and specific trade name reservations. Furthermore, fees associated with initial registration, annual renewals, and potential legal consulting services can influence the overall expense.

Learn more: DED License Renewal in Dubai

Conclusion

Understanding the specific activities covered under each type of DED license is essential for selecting the appropriate license for your business in Dubai. This knowledge ensures compliance with regulatory standards and aligns your business operations with local economic policies. By familiarizing yourself with the DED license framework and its requirements, you can streamline the setup process and effectively position your business within Dubai's dynamic market.

Choose the Appropriate business activity & form your business in UAEs Mainland with Filings.ae experts!!