When starting a business in Dubai, not all activities can be registered with a standard license. While many commercial, professional, and industrial activities are approved directly by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or relevant Free Zone authorities, some specific sectors require external approvals or permits from specialized government departments. These approvals ensure that businesses in sensitive or regulated industries operate safely, ethically, and in compliance with the UAE’s national standards. In 2025, as Dubai continues to advance its economic diversification and digital transformation initiatives, the process of obtaining these permits has become more transparent and accessible through online government portals. However, understanding which business activities require such approvals remains crucial to avoid licensing delays, compliance issues, or future penalties.
1. What Are Special Approvals and Why Are They Needed?
A “special approval” is an additional authorization required from a specific government body in the UAE before your business license is issued. These approvals are necessary when a company’s operations directly impact public health, safety, the environment, or national security. They ensure that businesses meet certain technical, ethical, and regulatory criteria before commencing operations.
For example:
- A medical clinic must obtain approval from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
- A real estate brokerage requires approval from the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
- A financial consultancy must be approved by the UAE Central Bank or Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA).
2. Common Business Activities That Require External Approvals in Dubai
Below is a categorized breakdown of key industries that require additional licensing steps:
A. Healthcare and Medical Services
If your business involves medical services, health consulting, or pharmaceuticals, you will need permits from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
Examples include:
- Hospitals and clinics
- Pharmacies
- Diagnostic centers
- Physiotherapy clinics
- Health and wellness consultancies
Regulatory Focus: Ensuring professional qualifications, facility standards, and compliance with UAE health laws.
B. Education and Training Institutions
Institutions that provide education, training, or coaching services require approval from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai.
Examples:
- Schools and nurseries
- Universities
- Training and skill development centers
- Online education providers
Regulatory Focus: Curriculum quality, facility standards, and staff qualifications.
C. Real Estate and Property-Related Activities
Real estate activities are closely monitored by the Dubai Land Department (DLD).
Examples:
- Real estate brokerage and property management
- Real estate development
- Property valuation services
Regulatory Focus: Compliance with property laws, RERA registration, and transparent transaction practices.
D. Financial and Investment Services
Any activity involving financial advisory, insurance, or investment management must be approved by the Central Bank of the UAE, Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), or Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).
Examples:
- Accounting and auditing firms
- Investment advisory services
- Insurance companies
- Crowdfunding platforms
Regulatory Focus: Financial transparency, investor protection, and adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) policies.
E. Media, Broadcasting, and Advertising
Businesses that produce or distribute content require approval from the National Media Council (NMC).
Examples:
- Advertising agencies
- Film production companies
- Online content creators or publishers
Regulatory Focus: Content censorship laws, copyright protection, and ethical advertising practices.
F. Food and Hospitality Services
Any business handling food or beverages needs health and safety clearance from the Dubai Municipality or the Food Safety Department.
Examples:
- Restaurants and cafés
- Catering services
- Food trading and import/export companies
- Food manufacturing
Regulatory Focus: Hygiene standards, ingredient sourcing, and food safety compliance.
G. Tourism and Travel Services
Tourism-related activities are regulated by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) itself, sometimes in coordination with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Examples:
- Travel agencies and tour operators
- Hotel management companies
- Event and conference organizers
Regulatory Focus: Customer safety, fair pricing, and compliance with hospitality standards.
3. How to Apply for Special Approvals
Here’s a simplified step-by-step process for obtaining special approvals in 2025:
- Identify the relevant authority based on your business activity.
- Prepare all required documentation, such as business plans, qualification certificates, layout drawings, or NOCs.
- Submit your application online via platforms like DED Trader, Invest in Dubai, or Free Zone portals.
- Wait for initial review; authorities may request inspections or interviews.
- Receive the approval certificate, which you’ll attach to your license application.
Some authorities have integrated approval systems with DET, making the process faster and fully digital.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Selecting the wrong activity code requires unplanned approval.
- Submitting incomplete documents, especially qualification proof.
- Ignoring external authority updates, as regulations can change annually.
- Not verifying Free Zone-specific rules, since each zone has its own approval structure.
5. Expert Insight
If you’re unsure about which activities need additional permits, consult professional service providers or authorized typing centers such as SH Typing Center. They can identify your business category, prepare the correct paperwork, and coordinate with the required authorities to ensure error-free approvals.
Special approvals are a vital part of Dubai’s licensing process in 2025. They uphold public safety, quality assurance, and compliance standards while protecting investors from future legal risks. By understanding which activities require these permits and applying through the correct authority, entrepreneurs can ensure a smooth, compliant, and efficient business registration experience.