Special Licenses for Businesses in the UAE
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Special Licenses for Businesses in the UAE: Your Guide to Setting Up in Regulated Sectors (Abu Dhabi Focus)
Starting a business in the UAE offers tremendous potential, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, media, food, and technology. But if your business activity falls under a regulated category, you’ll need more than just a general trade license—you’ll need a special license. These licenses require additional approvals from government authorities and regulators, particularly in Abu Dhabi, which is known for its clear regulatory framework and efficient licensing system.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about obtaining special licenses in Abu Dhabi and across other Emirates like Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman.
What Are Special Licenses in the UAE?
A special license is an official permit required for businesses operating in regulated sectors. While a standard trade license from ADDED (Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development) or DED (Dubai Economic Department) is necessary for most business activities, a special license involves additional scrutiny and approval from a relevant authority.
For example, if you’re planning to open a clinic, you’ll need a license from the Department of Health (DOH) in Abu Dhabi or DHA in Dubai. Likewise, starting a school or training institute requires approval from ADEK in Abu Dhabi or KHDA in Dubai.
Why Do You Need a Special License?
Certain business sectors are regulated to maintain quality, safety, and compliance with national policies. These include:
Abu Dhabi stands out due to:
These sectors impact public welfare or national interests, so they’re monitored closely through special licensing channels.
Types of Special Licenses in Abu Dhabi and the UAE
Here are some of the most common special licenses you may need depending on
your business activity:
1. Healthcare License
- Authority: Department of Health (DOH) in Abu Dhabi, DHA in Dubai
- Activities: Clinics, hospitals, pharmacies, therapy centers, laboratories
2. Education License
- Authority: ADEK in Abu Dhabi, KHDA in Dubai
- Activities: Schools, nurseries, training centers, e-learning platforms
3. Real Estate License
- Authority: RERA (Dubai), ADDED (Abu Dhabi), SEDD (Sharjah)
- Activities: Brokerage, property management, leasing services
4. Media License
- Authority: NMC, twofour54 (Abu Dhabi), Dubai Media City
- Activities: Advertising, production houses, publishing, online media
5. Telecom/IT License
- Authority: TRA (Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority)
- Activities: VoIP services, mobile trading, cybersecurity solutions
6. Food & Beverage License
- Authority: Abu Dhabi Municipality, Dubai Municipality
- Activities: Cafes, restaurants, catering, food trucks
7. Transport & Logistics License
- Authority: RTA (Dubai), DoT (Abu Dhabi), Municipalities
- Activities: Courier services, logistics firms, car rentals
8. Legal & Consultancy License
- Authority: Ministry of Justice, local courts, ADDED
- Activities: Law firms, legal consultancy, financial advisory
Licensing Authorities by Emirate
Each Emirate has designated authorities depending on the business activity:
Abu Dhabi:
ADDED, DOH, ADEK, Abu Dhabi Municipality
Dubai:
DED, DHA, RERA, KHDA, DM, TRA
Sharjah:
SEDD, Sharjah Municipality, SEWA
Ajman:
Ajman DED, Municipality, Free Zone Authority
Free Zone vs Mainland for Special Licenses
| Feature | Free Zone | Mainland |
| Speed | Faster approvals | More steps required |
| Regulation | Dedicated zones (e.g., media, health) | Wider range of activities |
| Setup Cost | Often lower | Varies by activity |
| Ideal For | Niche industries | Client-facing local businesses |
Top Regulated Activities That Need Special Licenses
Common Challenges & How We Help
Why Choose Us?
How to Get a Special License: Step-by-Step
Identify Your Business Activity
Choose Mainland or Free Zone
Submit Application
Approach Relevant Regulatory Authority
Pass Inspections or Evaluations
License Issuance
Common Questions Answered
A trade license allows you to operate, while a special license is an additional permit required for regulated activities.
Some authorities allow online applications, but many require in-person or coordinated approvals.
For mainland setups, yes. In Free Zones, no local sponsor is needed.
You may need separate approvals from more than one authority.
It can take 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the activity and authority involved.
Ready to Start? Book a Free Consultation Today
Setting up a regulated business in the UAE doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re planning a medical center in Abu Dhabi, a training institute in Sharjah, or a media company in Dubai, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s help you obtain your special license faster and with less hassle.