For entrepreneurs exploring the UAE market, the question often arises—Can we include multiple activities under one license in UAE? The short answer is yes, but the rules depend on whether you set up in the Mainland or a Free Zone. This flexibility allows investors to combine related or even diverse activities under a single trade license, saving costs and simplifying administration.
At AEY Prime Ventures, we guide businesses through structuring licenses to include multiple activities while staying compliant with the UAE’s legal framework.
A business license in the UAE specifies the activities you are legally allowed to conduct. Multiple activities under one license means you can operate more than one approved activity—such as trading, consulting, and services—under the same license.
Types of Licenses That Allow Multiple Activities
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai allows up to 10 activities under one license, provided they fall under the same license category (commercial, professional, or industrial).
You can combine activities from different groups in some cases, but additional approvals might be required.
Most Free Zones allow multiple activities if they are related.
Some zones are more flexible and let you mix unrelated activities, especially in general trading licenses.
Benefits of Multiple Activities Under One License in UAE
- Cost Efficiency – Avoid paying for multiple licenses.
- Operational Flexibility – Expand your business scope without separate entities.
- Streamlined Management – One renewal, one set of documents.
- Market Competitiveness – Offer diverse products/services to your customers.
Steps to Add Multiple Activities to Your License
Step | Action | Mainland | Free Zone |
1 | Choose core business activities | DET approved list | Free Zone approved list |
2 | Check compatibility of activities | Yes, same license type preferred | Zone-specific rules |
3 | Obtain necessary approvals | From ministries/authorities if required | From free zone authority |
4 | Amend trade license | Submit request to DET | Request amendment in free zone portal |
5 | Pay applicable fees | Activity addition fee + license renewal | Activity addition fee + package upgrade |
Limitations to Be Aware Of
- Some regulated sectors—like healthcare, education, and food—require separate approvals.
- Industrial activities often require separate licensing and facilities.
- In some emirates, you cannot mix certain activities on the same license due to regulatory differences.
Example Combinations Allowed in UAE
Trading + E-commerce (in most Mainland & Free Zones)
Marketing Consultancy + Event Management
IT Services + Software Trading
General Trading + Import/Export
How AEY Prime Ventures Helps
We help you:
- Assess if your activities can be combined legally
- Draft the right license structure for your business model
- Handle all approvals, amendments, and renewals
- Advise on cost-effective solutions across Mainland and Free Zones
Frequently Asked Questions
How many activities can I have under one license in Dubai Mainland?
Up to 10 activities, as per DET rules, provided they are compatible.
Can I mix trading and professional services under one license in UAE?
Yes, but it may require a dual license or additional approvals depending on the jurisdiction.
Is it cheaper to have multiple activities under one license?
Yes, as it eliminates the need for multiple licenses and separate renewals.
Can Free Zones in UAE allow unrelated activities under one license?
Some, like DMCC and IFZA, are flexible, but rules vary by zone.
Can I add new activities to my existing license?
Yes. You can request an amendment through DET (Mainland) or the relevant Free Zone authority.
