Choosing the right business activity is the foundational step for any entrepreneur launching a venture in Dubai. The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly the DED, maintains a comprehensive list of over 2,000 permissible business activities, each with a specific code defining your company's legal scope of operations. This selection is a critical decision, impacting everything from your trade licence type and office requirements to visa eligibility and potential external approvals needed.
A misstep at this stage can lead to costly delays or operational limitations down the line. This comprehensive guide simplifies the process by providing a detailed roundup of the most crucial business activities, meticulously grouped by licence type: Commercial, Professional, Industrial, and Tourism. We will explore the official government portals like Invest in Dubai and expert consultancy resources that demystify the extensive ded activity list dubai.
This article offers practical, actionable steps for selecting, amending, and securing necessary approvals for your chosen activities. Understanding how each activity code connects to your overall business setup is essential, similar to knowing the importance of a guide to a business registration number for legal identification. Our goal is to ensure your Dubai business is built on a solid, compliant foundation from day one, empowering you to navigate the city's dynamic economic landscape with confidence. Whether you are forming a new mainland company or expanding an existing one, this list will serve as your essential roadmap.
1. 365 DAY PRO Corporate Service Provider LLC
For entrepreneurs and investors navigating the complexities of the DED activity list in Dubai, 365 DAY PRO Corporate Service Provider LLC stands out as a robust, end-to-end partner. As the best corporate service provider in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah, the firm simplifies the entire business setup journey, from initial activity selection and trade name registration to securing visas and ensuring long-term compliance. Its core strength lies in its deep operational expertise and established relationships with key government bodies, including the Dubai Economy and Tourism (DED), TASHEEL, and AMER centres.
This direct liaison capability often translates into accelerated approvals and fewer bureaucratic hurdles for clients. As specialists in Freezone Company Formation across the UAE, the firm offers a full spectrum of services covering mainland, free zone, and offshore jurisdictions, making it a versatile one-stop solution for diverse business ambitions. Whether you are a startup founder, an SME, or a multinational corporation, their structured approach ensures every legal and administrative requirement is met efficiently.
Key Features and Service Analysis
365 DAY PRO distinguishes itself by bundling essential setup services with ongoing support. A dedicated project manager guides each client, providing a single point of contact for all queries related to licensing, visas, bank account introductions, and document attestations. This hands-on management is particularly beneficial for foreign investors unfamiliar with local regulations.
The firm also offers specialised services that cater to high-net-worth individuals, including expert guidance on securing the 10-year UAE Golden Visa through property investment or other eligible pathways. This dual focus on both corporate formation and long-term residency makes it an integrated partner for those looking to build a lasting presence in the UAE.
How to Use 365 DAY PRO Effectively
To maximise the value offered by 365 DAY PRO, it is best to engage them from the very beginning of your business planning process.
- Initial Consultation: Start with their free consultation to discuss your business concept. Their experts can help you select the most appropriate activities from the DED activity list, ensuring your chosen licence permits your full scope of operations.
- Define Your Structure: Be clear about your long-term goals. Do you need mainland access for local trade, or is a free zone setup with 100% foreign ownership more suitable? Their team will outline the pros, cons, and cost implications of each.
- Leverage PRO Services: Once your company is formed, utilise their ongoing PRO (Public Relations Officer) services for renewals, visa processing for employees, and compliance with VAT and corporate tax regulations. This outsourced support allows you to focus on core business growth rather than administrative tasks.
Evaluation and Practical Insights
| Feature | Analysis |
|---|---|
| Service Scope | Comprehensive end-to-end support for mainland, free zone, and offshore setups. Covers licensing, visas, banking, and compliance. |
| PRO Expertise | Strong, established relationships with DED, TASHEEL, and AMER help expedite processes and resolve potential issues quickly. |
| Residency Solutions | Specialised expertise in Golden Visa applications for investors, adding significant value beyond standard company formation. |
| Pricing | Packages start from AED 6,010, offering a competitive entry point. However, be aware this likely excludes third-party government fees. |
| Client Support | The firm promises 24/7 support and assigns a dedicated project manager to each client for personalised service. |
| Social Proof | The website currently lacks customer testimonials or awards, which may be a consideration for those seeking external validation. |
Ultimately, 365 DAY PRO is a highly practical and efficient choice for anyone needing a streamlined, locally informed partner to navigate the business landscape in Dubai. Their hands-on approach and comprehensive service menu effectively reduce the complexities of company setup and long-term management.
Website: https://365dayproservices.com
✅ Best Corporate Service Provider in Dubai, Abu Dhabi & Sharjah
✅ Specialists in Mainland Company Formation in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
✅ Specialists in Freezone Company Formation across the UAE
✅ 24/7 Support Service – Always here when you need us
✅ Cost-Effective Business Setup Solutions tailored to your needs
✅ Enjoy UAE Tax Benefits for International Entrepreneurs
📞 Call Us Now: +971-52 923 1246
💬 WhatsApp Us Today for a Free Consultation
2. Invest in Dubai (DET’s official licensing portal)
For entrepreneurs and investors who prefer to engage directly with the official government source, the Invest in Dubai portal is the definitive platform. Managed by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this website serves as the single most authoritative resource for the DED activity list Dubai mainland businesses can operate under. It’s not just an informational list; it is a transactional, end-to-end portal designed to take you from initial idea to a fully issued trade licence online.
The portal’s standout feature is its "Search Business Activities" tool, which is directly linked to the DET’s official database. This ensures the information, including activity codes, descriptions, and licence types (Commercial, Professional, Industrial, Tourism), is always current. Unlike third-party sites, its filters are integrated into the application process, allowing you to check crucial details like foreign ownership eligibility before you even start your application.
Key Features and User Experience
The platform is designed for action. Once you find your desired activity, you can seamlessly proceed with the entire licensing journey online. This includes reserving a trade name, securing initial approval, making payments, and receiving your digital trade licence. The user interface is clean and guides you through each step logically.
- Official Activity Database: Provides direct access to the most accurate and up-to-date DED business activity list.
- End-to-End Application: Supports the full lifecycle of licence issuance, from name reservation to final payment and licence delivery.
- e-Trader Licence Support: Individuals seeking to start a home-based or social media business can apply for an e-Trader licence through the same portal.
- Integrated Filters: Practical filters, such as 100% foreign ownership eligibility, help you make informed decisions from the outset.
Access and Cost Considerations
Access to the transactional features of the Invest in Dubai portal requires a valid UAE PASS account, which is linked to an Emirates ID. This makes it an ideal tool for UAE residents or foreign investors who have already obtained their residency. Non-residents without a UAE PASS can use the search function for research but cannot complete the application online.
Licence costs are calculated dynamically based on the chosen activities, legal form, and other variables. Payments are made directly through the portal's secure gateway. For instance, an e-Trader licence typically costs around AED 1,070 to AED 1,200, plus any additional third-party fees.
Website: https://app.invest.dubai.ae/search-business-activities
3. Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) – Business licensing
While Invest in Dubai is the transactional portal, the main Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) website is the informational home for all business-related regulations. This site serves as the primary source for understanding the policies, legal frameworks, and requirements that govern the DED activity list Dubai businesses must follow. It is less of a direct search tool and more of a comprehensive resource hub for entrepreneurs needing to understand the ‘why’ behind the licensing journey.
The DET website excels at providing context. It explains the different licence categories (Commercial, Professional, Industrial, Tourism), outlines mainland business requirements, and directs users to the correct transactional services like the Invest in Dubai portal. It is the official source for understanding the roles of different government bodies, such as the Business Registration & Licensing (BRL) Sector, and for finding information on specialised permits for events, retail promotions, and other commercial activations.
Key Features and User Experience
The platform is designed to educate and guide. Instead of an activity search bar, you will find detailed service pages, official guides, and FAQs that explain the entire business lifecycle. This is where you come to learn about compliance, legal forms, and the responsibilities that come with your chosen business activities before you commit to the application process.
- Official Policy Hub: Acts as the central source for all rules, regulations, and official announcements related to business licensing in Dubai.
- Detailed Service Guides: Offers in-depth explanations on obtaining various permits, such as those for events, activations, and advertising.
- Links to Transactional Portals: Provides clear pathways and links to the Invest in Dubai platform where you can search the activity list and apply for a licence.
- Informational FAQs: A valuable resource for answering common questions about mainland requirements, fees, and compliance procedures.
Access and Cost Considerations
The DET website is fully accessible to the public for informational purposes, with no login or UAE PASS required. It is an open resource for preliminary research for both residents and international investors. While the site explains the framework for licensing costs, it does not provide a direct cost calculator. Specific fees are dynamically generated on the Invest in Dubai portal during the actual application process, as they depend on your chosen activities and legal structure.
For entrepreneurs, using this site in tandem with a corporate service provider can be highly effective. The DET website provides the official rules, while specialists in mainland company formation can offer tailored, cost-effective business setup solutions and help you navigate the practical application steps, ensuring you enjoy all available UAE tax benefits for international entrepreneurs.
Website: https://www.dubaidet.gov.ae/en/home
4. Dubai Pulse Open Data – DED Business Activities (API/dataset)
For developers, data analysts, or corporate teams requiring bulk access to the DED activity list Dubai, the Dubai Pulse Open Data platform offers a powerful, machine-readable solution. This official government initiative provides the entire list of business activities as a raw dataset and through an API (Application Programming Interface). It is the foundational data source that many consultants and third-party platforms use to power their own search tools, making it an invaluable resource for technical verification and integration.
The platform’s unique value lies in its direct, unfiltered access. Instead of a user-friendly search interface, it provides structured data with fields like activity_code, group, and category. This is ideal for teams looking to integrate the DED activity list into their internal systems, build custom search applications, or perform large-scale analysis to cross-check codes and descriptions. It is a tool for deep research and automation rather than a simple lookup portal.
Key Features and User Experience
Designed for technical users, Dubai Pulse prioritises data accessibility over a guided user journey. The platform allows you to download the dataset in common formats (like CSV) or connect directly to the API to pull live data. This is particularly useful for verifying the exact wording and official code for an activity before finalising a business plan.
- Official Data Source: Provides raw data published directly by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, ensuring a high degree of authenticity.
- API and Dataset Access: Offers both a downloadable file and a live API for flexible integration into other software and internal dashboards.
- Machine-Readable Format: The data is structured for easy processing, perfect for developers, data scientists, and business analysts.
- Free and Open: Access is completely free and does not require a login or UAE PASS, making it globally accessible for research purposes.
Access and Cost Considerations
The Dubai Pulse platform is entirely free to use, aligning with the UAE’s open data initiatives. However, users should be aware of its limitations. The dataset's refresh frequency may be slower than the live, transactional Invest in Dubai portal. Therefore, it is essential to use this platform for research and verification but always confirm the final activity details on the official licensing portal before submitting any application.
This resource is best suited for corporate service providers, law firms, and large enterprises that need to manage or advise on multiple business setups and want a reliable, programmatic way to access the DED activity list.
Website: https://www.dubaipulse.gov.ae/data/ded_business_activities-open-api
5. Virtuzone – DED Activity List (guide with codes) + setup services
For entrepreneurs who value practical, real-world context alongside official data, Virtuzone’s guide to the DED activity list Dubai is an excellent starting point. As a leading corporate service provider, Virtuzone bridges the gap between the formal DET database and the practical needs of a business owner. Their online resource presents a curated list of popular business activities, translated from technical jargon into plain-English descriptions that are easy to understand. This makes it an ideal tool for initial research, helping you scope out potential business ideas before diving into the official application process.
The platform’s key advantage is its dual function as both a research guide and a gateway to concierge setup services. After exploring the activity lists and using their cost calculator, you have the option to seamlessly transition from planning to execution. If you prefer a hands-on, managed approach to your mainland company formation, their team of specialists is readily available to handle the entire licensing and visa process on your behalf.
Key Features and User Experience
The website is designed to provide clarity and actionable next steps. It categorises activities into Commercial, Professional, Industrial, and Tourism, offering concise notes on what each entails, potential external approvals needed, and foreign ownership eligibility. This practical focus simplifies what can often be a complex decision-making process.
- Human-Readable Guides: Explains what activity codes mean in real-life business scenarios, making it easier to select the right licence.
- Integrated Cost Calculator: Offers an initial estimate of setup costs, helping you budget for your new venture from the outset.
- Concierge Setup Services: Provides a smooth hand-off to their team of experts for end-to-end mainland, free zone, or offshore company formation. As specialists in the UAE, they offer tailored, cost-effective business setup solutions.
- Free Research Tool: The content is freely available, allowing you to conduct thorough research without any commitment.
Access and Cost Considerations
The informational guide and cost calculator on Virtuzone’s website are free to access for all users, requiring no sign-up. This makes it a valuable resource for anyone in the initial stages of planning their Dubai business.
If you choose to engage their paid advisory and setup services, the costs will depend on the specific package and complexity of your business needs. Virtuzone offers tailored solutions to help you take advantage of UAE tax benefits for international entrepreneurs. For a precise quote and a free consultation, you can contact their team directly. It's important to remember that while their guide is comprehensive, the final activity codes must always be confirmed on the official DET portal before finalising your application.
Website: https://virtuzone.com/blog/ded-activity-list/
6. Visa in Dubai – Activity list (searchable, with codes)
For entrepreneurs in the early discovery phase, Visa in Dubai offers a straightforward and user-friendly tool to browse the extensive DED activity list Dubai. This platform functions as a live, searchable directory of over 2,000 DET-approved activities. It is designed to help you quickly explore options, shortlist potential business lines, and understand the associated categories before committing to the formal application process. While it is a third-party consultancy site, its primary value lies in its clean presentation and quick search functionality.
The platform’s core strength is its keyword-based search engine. As you type, it instantly populates results showing the Activity Code, Activity Name, Group (e.g., Businessmen services, Management consultancies), and Licence Type (Commercial, Professional). This clear layout is particularly helpful for comparing similar activities side-by-side, allowing you to identify the most suitable option for your business model without navigating complex government portals.
Key Features and User Experience
The user experience is built around speed and simplicity. The main goal is to help you find relevant activities and their codes efficiently, which are essential for any mainland company formation in Dubai. It serves as an excellent starting point for research, especially for those unfamiliar with the DET’s official terminology.
- Fast Keyword Search: Instantly filters thousands of activities as you type, providing immediate results.
- Clear Data Presentation: Displays results in a neat, table-like format with Activity Code, Group, and Licence Type.
- Broad Activity Coverage: Includes a comprehensive list spanning commercial, professional, agricultural, and industrial sectors.
- Consultancy Support: For users who need guided assistance, the platform provides direct contact options for expert advice on business setup. They are specialists in mainland and free zone company formation and offer a 24/7 support service.
Access and Cost Considerations
The activity list search tool on Visa in Dubai is completely free to use for research purposes. There is no need to create an account or provide personal details to access the directory. This makes it an accessible and zero-commitment resource for initial planning.
However, it is important to remember that Visa in Dubai is a corporate services provider. While the search tool is free, their hands-on assistance with licence applications, PRO services, and visa processing are paid services. The final licence fees are always paid directly to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. A key advantage of using their service is gaining tailored, cost-effective business setup solutions that help you enjoy UAE tax benefits. For a free consultation, you can reach out via their website or WhatsApp.
Website: https://www.visaindubai.ae/activities
7. Dubiz – DED License Activities List (overview) + setup services
For entrepreneurs in the early research phase, Dubiz offers a practical starting point that combines an overview of the DED activity list Dubai with integrated business setup consultancy. Rather than presenting an exhaustive database, the platform categorises popular mainland activities into understandable groups like trading, brokerage, e-commerce, and professional services. This approach helps entrepreneurs scope out their options before diving into granular activity codes, making it an excellent resource for initial planning and validation.
The key differentiator for Dubiz is its dual function as both an informational guide and a gateway to professional services. After reviewing the activity categories, users can directly engage with their team of consultants for end-to-end company formation support. This is particularly useful for investors who need guidance on combining multiple activities, understanding external approval requirements, or structuring their business for optimal tax benefits and visa eligibility. Their specialists in mainland and free zone company formation across the UAE provide tailored advice.
Key Features and User Experience
The website is structured to guide users from broad understanding to specific action. It provides clear, concise summaries of what each licence type (Commercial, Professional, etc.) entails and which activities fall under them. This simplifies the often-complex process of mapping a business idea to an official DED category, making it accessible for those new to the Dubai business landscape. The user journey is designed to lead towards a consultation for a personalised setup solution.
- Categorised Activity Overviews: Presents popular DED activities in logical groups, ideal for high-level research.
- Integrated Consultancy: Offers direct access to business setup advisors who can manage the entire licensing process, from activity selection to visa processing.
- Guidance on Approvals: Content helps users identify when external approvals from bodies like the Dubai Municipality or RTA might be necessary.
- 24/7 Support Service: Provides around-the-clock assistance, ensuring support is always there when you need us.
Access and Cost Considerations
The informational content on the Dubiz website is freely accessible to all users without any registration. The value proposition lies in its consultancy services, which are quoted on a case-by-case basis. After an initial free consultation via call or WhatsApp, the team provides a cost-effective business setup package tailored to your specific activities, legal structure, and visa requirements. This paid service is ideal for entrepreneurs who prefer expert handling of their application to ensure compliance and efficiency.
Website: https://dubiz.co/ded-license-activities-list/
DED Activity List — 7-Source Comparison
| Service / Source | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 365 DAY PRO Corporate Service Provider LLC | Low for clients (full-service); medium for complex cases | Service fees, government fees, documents, local PRO coordination | Complete company setup, visas, bank intro, compliance & Golden Visa support | Entrepreneurs, SMEs, multinationals, HNW investors seeking turnkey setup | End-to-end service, strong PRO relationships, dedicated project managers |
| Invest in Dubai (DET’s official licensing portal) | Low (self-service online) | UAE PASS/Emirates ID, online payment, residency for expats | Official activity codes, trade licence issuance/renewal online | Residents/self-filers who need authoritative licence applications | Authoritative, transactional portal with direct licence issuance |
| Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) – Business licensing | Low (informational) | None for reading; links to transactional services | Authoritative guidance on licence categories, rules and processes | Researching regulations, policy and compliance requirements | Primary official source for rules, FAQs and process guidance |
| Dubai Pulse Open Data – DED Business Activities (API/dataset) | Medium (requires integration/dev) | Developer time, API access; no login required | Machine-readable activity codes for bulk lookups and tooling | Teams building internal tools, automation or bulk verification | Free, government-published dataset suitable for integration |
| Virtuzone – DED Activity List (guide with codes) + setup services | Low to medium (guide easy; services paid) | Advisory fees if using managed setup; time to review guide | Practical activity explanations, cost estimates, optional concierge setup | Founders wanting plain-English guidance and optional managed setup | Human-readable explanations, cost calculator, smooth hand-off to setup |
| Visa in Dubai – Activity list (searchable, with codes) | Low | None to browse; paid consultancy for setup | Fast shortlisting of activity codes and licence types | Early exploration and shortlist generation | Quick discovery, clear presentation of codes and categories |
| Dubiz – DED License Activities List (overview) + setup services | Low to medium | Consultancy fees for setup; time to review guidance | Category overviews, mapping activities to licence types, consultant access | Early-stage scoping and consultant engagement | Good for scoping, mapping activities to licence types and consultant support |
Your Next Step: From Activity List to Active Business
Navigating the extensive DED activity list Dubai offers is the foundational move in your entrepreneurial chess game. This article has equipped you with a strategic overview of the essential tools and resources available, from the official Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) portal to specialised corporate service providers. We've dissected how to search for activities, understand their codes, recognise the need for external approvals, and anticipate the cost and visa implications tied to your choices. The journey from a business idea to a licensed, operational entity in Dubai is paved with these critical decisions.
The key takeaway is that selecting a business activity is not merely a box-ticking exercise. It's a strategic choice that defines your company's legal scope, influences its scalability, and ensures long-term compliance. A mismatched activity can lead to operational roadblocks, fines, or the costly process of amending your trade licence down the line. Therefore, your initial research and selection process demand careful consideration and foresight.
Synthesising Your Strategy: Choosing the Right Tools
The resources we've explored serve different, yet complementary, purposes. Your choice of tool should align with your current stage and specific needs:
-
For Initial Exploration & Official Data:
- Invest in Dubai & DET Portals: These are your primary, authoritative sources. Use them for initial searches, to understand the official classifications, and to see the raw list of available activities directly from the government. They are indispensable for verifying information.
- Dubai Pulse Open Data: This is a power tool for market researchers or tech-savvy entrepreneurs who want to analyse the data programmatically. It’s less for casual browsing and more for deep, data-driven insights.
-
For Practical Guidance & End-to-End Support:
- 365 DAY PRO, Virtuzone, & Dubiz: These corporate service providers bridge the gap between official information and practical application. Their curated lists and searchable guides often come with plain-language explanations and, most importantly, are connected to a team of experts who can manage the entire setup process for you. They help you avoid common pitfalls like selecting conflicting activities or underestimating external approval timelines.
Think of the official portals as your encyclopaedia and the service providers as your expert tutors. The encyclopaedia contains all the facts, but the tutor helps you understand how to apply them to pass the exam.
Your Actionable Roadmap to a Dubai Trade Licence
With this knowledge, your path forward becomes clearer. Here are your immediate next steps to transform your vision into a registered Dubai mainland company:
- Finalise Your Shortlist: Using the tools discussed, create a shortlist of 3-5 primary DED activities that accurately represent your core business operations. Consider both your current services and potential future expansions.
- Verify External Approvals: For each activity on your shortlist, confirm if it requires approval from external government bodies (e.g., Dubai Municipality, RTA, KHDA). This is a critical step that significantly impacts your setup timeline and costs.
- Consult with an Expert: Before making a final decision, engage with a business setup consultant. They can review your shortlist, advise on the most cost-effective and strategic combination of activities, and highlight any potential challenges you may have overlooked.
- Secure Your Trade Name: Once you've identified your ideal DED activities, a critical subsequent step is to legally establish your business's identity. This involves learning how to register your business name, ensuring it aligns with UAE naming conventions and is available for registration.
- Initiate the Licensing Process: With your activities selected and trade name approved, you can proceed with the formal application for your Initial Approval and, subsequently, your trade licence.
Choosing the right activity from the DED activity list Dubai is your launchpad. It’s the official declaration of your business’s purpose and potential. By leveraging the right combination of official tools and expert guidance, you ensure that this crucial first step is taken with confidence, precision, and a clear vision for the thriving enterprise you are about to build in the heart of the UAE.
Ready to move from planning to action? Let our specialists at 365 DAY PRO Corporate Service Provider LLC handle the complexities of activity selection and company formation for you. We provide tailored, cost-effective business setup solutions to ensure your business is set up for success from day one. Enjoy UAE tax benefits as an international entrepreneur with our expert guidance. For a free consultation, 📞 Call Us Now: +971-52 923 1246 or 💬 WhatsApp Us Today.