UAE free zones by industry

Management, business and technical consulting that does not need a regulated professional licence.

Software development, SaaS, IT services and digital agencies.

Selling goods or digital products online to consumers or businesses.

Import, export and re-export of a broad range of goods under one licence.

Trading in one defined category of goods.

Content production, publishing, design, film, photography and broadcasting.

Digital marketing, advertising agencies, PR and event marketing.

Training institutes, coaching and education services. Usually needs an education regulator's approval.

Clinics, telehealth, medical devices and wellness services. Usually needs a health regulator's approval.

Freight forwarding, warehousing, distribution and courier services.

Production, assembly and light or heavy industrial activity on site.

Property management, real estate consultancy and brokerage support.

Virtual asset services, exchanges, custody, DAOs and blockchain companies. Regulated.

Payments, asset management, banking and insurance. Regulated by a financial regulator.

Holding shares and assets of other companies; no operating activity.

An individual permit or licence to work on your own account.

Event management, exhibitions and conferences.

Travel agencies, tour operators and tourism services. Usually needs a tourism authority's approval.

Restaurants, cafés and catering with a physical outlet.

Fashion brands, cosmetics and beauty products.

Law firms, audit and accounting practices that need professional registration.

Research, biotech, life sciences, deep tech and renewable energy.

Aviation services, ship management and marine services.