Trade Licence
Activity Finder
Search or filter to find your business activity, its typical licence category, whether free zone or mainland fits, and if external approval is needed.
0 activities found
Indicative starting point, not an official activity code database. Always confirm the exact activity name, code and requirements with your chosen free zone or the DED before applying.
How licence categories work
The three main types you'll see in search results
Frequently Asked Questions
What founders ask when choosing an activity
How do I know which licence category my activity needs?
UAE licences fall into a few main categories: Commercial (trading, retail, general goods), Professional (services, consultancy, skilled work), Industrial (manufacturing, processing) and specialised categories like Tourism. Most authorities publish an official activity list mapping each specific activity to its category — this tool is a fast starting point before you check theirs.
Can I have more than one activity on my licence?
Yes — most authorities allow multiple related activities under a single licence, sometimes for an additional fee per activity beyond a free allowance. Activities generally need to sit within a compatible group (e.g. several trading activities together); mixing very different categories can require additional approvals or a broader licence type.
Which activities need external approval?
Activities regulated by a specific authority beyond the licensing authority itself: healthcare (DHA/DoH), education (KHDA), food service (municipality/food control), financial services (Central Bank/SCA), legal services (Ministry of Justice), and several others. These add an approval step and time before the licence is issued.
Can every activity be done in a free zone?
No. Free zones suit activities that don't require face-to-face trading with the general public within the local market or specific mainland-only approvals (like certain contracting, F&B with dine-in, or activities needing a physical mainland presence). Many service and trading activities work well in either jurisdiction.
Is this the official UAE activity list?
No — this is a curated, indicative starting point covering common activities, not an official DED, free zone, or Ministry of Economy activity code database. Always confirm the exact activity name, code and requirements with your chosen licensing authority before applying.
What if my activity isn't listed here?
Most authorities support thousands of specific activity codes — this tool covers common categories, not every code. If you can't find your exact activity, search for the closest general category (e.g. "consultancy" or "trading") and confirm the precise activity name with your chosen free zone or the DED.
Not sure which activity to licence?
Setup consultants can confirm the right activity code and licence for your plan.