There are various advantages offered in Dubai free zones which makes it highly sought after by international and local entrepreneurs alike. More often these business free zones also have the desirable urban ecosystem that enables every business to thrive. Dubai South is considered as a hotspot for business events and corporate collaboration. Operating a business in a free zone aka as economic zone gives you access to various activities in different industries such as exhibitions, logistics, real estate, etc. For any entrepreneur to enjoy the advantages of a free zone, he needs to secure a license. There are various types of licenses that can be acquired at the Dubai South Free Zone.
1. Service License
This is the type of license served to those who provide their services. Most of the service providers are those who convert their passion or hobby into a business. The primary purpose of this license is for the service provider to be able to render services and make use of products that will enable the provider to deliver the services. For a guide on getting specific licenses in the service industry, see below:
- How to Obtain a Private Clinic License in Dubai
- How to Acquire a Restaurant License in Dubai
- Getting a Liquor License in Dubai
2. Teacher’s License
It is mandatory in Dubai for a teacher to acquire a professional teaching license for him to practice professional teaching. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority launched a pilot project on this which involved 227 teachers all over 15 schools.
3. Industrial License
Under this type of license are industrial and manufacturing activities. This is the license needed to be able to import raw materials, manufacture, process, assemble, package, and also export the finished product. This is also required for companies that convert raw materials into finished products. Read my previous article to learn how to acquire an Industrial License.
4. Holding License
An expat in Dubai is required to procure a holding license if he has a holding company or plans to have one. Having a holding company enables one to have standalone assets and/or stakes in other companies. It is required for an entrepreneur to have a holding company to be able to control other companies and also properties such as trademarks, real estate, stocks, patents, and others.
5. Entrepreneurial Business License (EBL)
This is the license that is designed for entrepreneurs and their businesses. Having this particular license enables entrepreneurs to have support services and necessary resources. There are personal restrictions in every free zone on who are eligible for this type of license.
6. Commercial License
This is the type of license that enables a company to engage in trading and also in buying and selling of goods and services. If the business chosen falls under what is classified as a commercial activity, it is required to secure a commercial license. It is important for the entrepreneur to fulfill the rules, regulations, and the procedures mentioned in the license. It is also significant to designate the specific activity that the company intends to conduct and submit this information to the free zone authorities. Read this guide to obtaining a commercial license in Dubai.
7. Freelance License
By freelance, it means providing services to various companies on a specific assignment. The freelancer is also considered as a sole practitioner. Once the freelance license is secured by a freelancer, he is free to conduct business under his birth name instead of the brand name. Here are the steps in getting a freelance license in Dubai.
8. Education License
This is required of an investor who likes to start an educational institution. By having this particular license, an investor will be able to open any school or college for students. This is also necessary for those who intend to start educational and training institutes, educational consultancy services, or a social service company in a Dubai free zone.
9. Trading License
The trading license is another license issued for the import, export, and distribution business. It is easy to acquire the general trading license for as long as all the procedures mandated by the authorities are followed. This is also the license to be acquired by a local distributor for the sale of his products within the UAE market.
If you want to know more about the benefits and requirements of the license that suits your business plan, don’t hesitate to contact us now.
