Cybersecurity Business Setup in Dubai: License, Costs and Activity Codes
Topic Summary
Know Which Activities Your License Covers
A cybersecurity license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone covers services like security architecture design, managed security operations, cyber risk assessment, and data protection advisory. The first five activity codes are included at no extra charge, making it straightforward to launch a multi-service firm.
Match Your Services to the Right Activity Codes
Dubai South uses specific codes such as 6202.98 for Managed Cyber Security Services and 6209.12 for Cyber Security Consultancy to define what your business can legally offer. Selecting the correct codes upfront ensures compliance and avoids costly amendments later.
Budget From AED 12,500 for Your License
The base license fee starts at AED 12,500, with additional activities costing AED 2,000 each beyond the first five included. Investor visas, Emirates ID, medical fees, and bank account assistance are all charged separately, so use the cost calculator for an accurate total.
Complete Your Setup Entirely Online
The formation process is fully digital, allowing founders to submit applications, select activity codes, and receive license documentation remotely without visiting Dubai in person. This makes it especially practical for international entrepreneurs entering the UAE market.
No Local Sponsor Required in a Free Zone
Setting up at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone means you retain 100% ownership of your company without needing a UAE national as a local sponsor. This structure is a key advantage for foreign cybersecurity specialists looking to operate independently.
Tap Into a Government-Driven Cybersecurity Market
The UAE Cybersecurity Council coordinates national cyber defence strategy, generating consistent demand from government departments, critical infrastructure operators, and the financial sector. This policy-backed demand gives licensed cybersecurity businesses a reliable and growing client pipeline.
Private Sector Digitalisation Creates Additional Opportunity
Rapid digital transformation across UAE banking, healthcare, and logistics sectors has created a substantial private sector market alongside government contracts. Cybersecurity specialists can pursue diverse revenue streams from day one of operations.
The UAE is one of the most digitally ambitious nations in the world and that ambition comes with an equally serious commitment to cybersecurity. As digital transformation accelerates across the UAE's public and private sectors, demand for cybersecurity expertise has never been stronger. From managed security services and penetration testing to security architecture and risk consultancy, the cybersecurity market in Dubai offers significant and growing opportunity for specialists.
Setting up a cybersecurity business at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone begins with understanding the right license structure, activity codes, and costs. This guide covers all of it.
What a Cybersecurity Business License Allows You to Do?
A cybersecurity business license at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone allows you to offer a range of security services including security architecture design, managed security operations, cyber risk assessment, compliance and audit services, security consultancy, and data protection advisory.
The license gives you the legal framework to work with clients across the UAE and internationally. For context on how technology consultancy businesses are structured, see the IT consultancy license page.
Relevant Activity Codes
The following activity codes apply to cybersecurity businesses at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone:
6201.98 , Cyber Security Architecture
6202.95 , Auditing, Reviewing and Testing Cyber Risks
6202.98 , Managed Cyber Security Services Provider
6209.11 , Data Management and Cyber Security Services
6209.12 , Cyber Security Consultancy
6209.13 , Security Systems Consultancy
6209.14 , Cyber Risk Management Services
Visit the business activities directory to explore additional related codes.
Breaking Down the Setup Cost for a Cybersecurity Company
The license cost at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone starts at AED 12,500. The first five activities are included at no additional charge.
Before confirming your setup, run a quick search on the Company Name Check tool to verify your preferred company name is available and compliant with UAE naming rules. Your total cost will depend on the number of activities selected, visa requirements, and any additional services.
Company license: from AED 12,500
Additional business activities: AED 2,000 per activity beyond the first five
Investor visa: charged separately based on your selection
Emirates ID and medical: charged separately
Bank account assistance: available as an add-on service
Use the business setup cost calculator to generate a personalised, transparent pricing estimate.
How the Setup Process Works for Your Cybersecurity Company
The setup process is fully digital and can be completed remotely:
Submit your application and select your cybersecurity activity codes
Choose your workspace and visa configuration
Receive your cost estimate and complete payment
Receive your license documentation digitally
For technology businesses looking to set up without a physical presence in Dubai, the remote-first consultancy license is worth reviewing. For guidance on free zone company formation without a local sponsor, see our guide on free zone company setup without a local sponsor.
Why the UAE Is One of the Strongest Markets for Cybersecurity Businesses
The UAE has established itself as a regional leader in digital governance and cybersecurity policy.
The Cybersecurity Council of the UAE coordinates national cyber defence strategy and drives demand for qualified cybersecurity suppliers across government departments, critical infrastructure operators, and the financial sector.
Beyond government, the rapid digitalisation of banking, healthcare, and logistics across the Emirates has created a substantial private sector pipeline for cybersecurity specialists at every level.
To understand the wider technology market opportunity, read our article on high-demand business activities in Dubai for 2026.
Regulatory Considerations for Cybersecurity Companies in Dubai
Some cybersecurity activities may require additional approvals from the UAE Cybersecurity Council or sector-specific regulators, particularly when working with government entities or critical national infrastructure. The nature and scope of your services will determine whether these apply, so it's better to confirm your specific requirements with the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone team before you begin operations.
For entrepreneurs new to the UAE, read our guide on setting up a business as a foreigner in the UAE for an overview of the broader regulatory landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
