Mainland activities
Choose your mainland business activity
The UAE mainland offers thousands of licensable activities, each with its own rules. We help you select the activities that match your business and secure any additional approvals.
Main activity groups
The list of permitted activities and their requirements can vary between emirates.
Trading
General and specialised trading, import and export, and e-commerce.
Manufacturing
Production, assembly and processing of goods.
Professional services
Consulting, accounting, engineering and other professional services.
Hospitality and tourism
Hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and tour operators.
Health and wellness
Clinics, medical centres and fitness businesses, subject to health approvals.
Education
Schools, training centres and learning services, subject to education approvals.
Real estate
Brokerage, property management and related activities.
IT and technology
Software, IT services and telecommunications-related activities.
Media and advertising
Advertising, publishing and printing, subject to media approvals.
Choosing the right activity
- It reflects what your business actually does and plans to do
- There is demand for your products or services in the market
- It is compatible with the other activities on your licence
- You understand any additional approvals required
- It supports the office type and visa numbers you need
Related services
Talk to a business setup advisor
Tell us about your plans and we will recommend the right structure, licence and next steps for your business.
