Apply for a Financial Instruments Quotation Services Business License in Dubai
Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world's most competitive financial hubs, attracting businesses that operate across capital markets, trading, and investment services. For companies seeking to provide financial instruments quotation services, the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a structured, cost-effective, and internationally recognised pathway to operate legally in the UAE. Whether you are a financial data provider, a market intelligence firm, or a trading support business, obtaining a Business License under Activity Code 6619.91 positions your company at the centre of a rapidly growing regional financial ecosystem.
What Is a Financial Instruments Quotation Services Business License?
A Financial Instruments Quotation Services Business License (Activity Code: 6619.91) falls under the Financial category and covers activities related to the provision of quotation services for financial instruments. This includes supplying price data, bid and ask quotations, and related market information for instruments such as equities, bonds, derivatives, foreign exchange, and commodities.
The license is classified as a Business License and is issued by the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone authority. It is designed for entities that support financial markets through information and data services rather than direct trading or fund management.
Key Activities Covered Under This License
Providing real-time and historical price quotations for financial instruments
Supplying bid and offer data to brokers, traders, and institutional clients
Offering market data aggregation and distribution services
Supporting financial analysis through structured quotation feeds
Delivering reference pricing services for compliance and valuation purposes
Who Is This License Best Suited For?
This license is particularly well suited to financial data vendors, fintech companies, market intelligence providers, and firms that act as intermediaries between financial exchanges and end users. It also benefits trading technology companies that embed quotation data into platforms, as well as consultancies that advise on asset pricing and valuation methodologies.
International firms looking to establish a regional presence in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia corridor will find Dubai South an attractive base, given its proximity to major trade routes and its alignment with global regulatory standards.
Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone?
Dubai South is a purpose-built economic zone strategically located adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, one of the world's largest aviation infrastructure projects. The free zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, and full repatriation of profits and capital, making it one of the most investor-friendly jurisdictions in the region.
The UAE's financial services sector has grown substantially in recent years. The country ranks among the top 20 global financial centres, and Dubai specifically has attracted significant foreign direct investment into its financial and professional services industries. Dubai South's Business Hub is tailored for companies in the services sector, providing flexible office solutions, streamlined licensing, and access to a well-regulated business environment.
Key Facts at a Glance
Activity Code: 6619.91
License Type: Business License
Category: Financial
Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub
Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted
Corporate Tax Rate: 0% on qualifying free zone income
Profit Repatriation: Full repatriation allowed
Typical Setup Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks
Steps to Obtain the License
1. Choose Your Business Structure
Applicants can establish a Free Zone Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC) or a branch of an existing company. Most new entrants opt for the FZ-LLC structure to benefit from liability protection and straightforward governance requirements.
2. Submit Your Application
Complete the application through the Dubai South Business Hub portal or via an authorised business setup consultant. You will need to submit passport copies of shareholders and directors, a business plan, and a completed application form specifying Activity Code 6619.91.
3. Obtain Initial Approval
The free zone authority reviews the application and issues initial approval, typically within a few working days. For financial category activities, additional compliance checks may apply.
4. Finalise Office or Facility Arrangements
Dubai South requires licensed businesses to maintain a registered address within the free zone. Options include flexi-desk arrangements, shared offices, or dedicated office spaces depending on your operational needs.
5. Pay License Fees and Receive Your License
Once all documents are verified and fees are settled, the Business License is issued. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Licensing Costs and Compliance Requirements
License fees at Dubai South Business Hub vary depending on the office package selected and the number of visa allocations required. Entry-level packages for service-based businesses typically start from approximately AED 12,000 to AED 20,000 per year, inclusive of the license fee and a basic flexi-desk arrangement. Additional costs may include registration fees, government charges, and visa processing fees for employees or shareholders.
From a compliance perspective, businesses holding this license must maintain accurate financial records, adhere to UAE anti-money laundering regulations, and comply with the UAE Central Bank's guidelines where applicable. Annual license renewal requires submission of updated documents and payment of renewal fees.
UAE Market Context
The UAE's financial markets have seen consistent growth, with the Dubai Financial Market and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange recording increased trading volumes and listings in recent years. The demand for reliable financial instruments quotation services has grown alongside the expansion of retail and institutional investment activity in the region. UAE Vision 2031 and Dubai Economic Agenda D33 both emphasise the development of financial services as a pillar of long-term economic diversification, creating a supportive policy environment for businesses in this sector.
Related Activities
Financial Markets Support Services Business License
Financial Advisory And Financial Analysis Business
Financial Consultancy Business License
