Financial Markets Support Services Business License in Dubai: Cost and Requirements
Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world's most dynamic financial hubs, attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and institutions seeking access to global capital markets. As the financial sector continues to expand across the UAE, the demand for specialised support services that underpin trading, clearing, and advisory operations has grown substantially. For businesses looking to operate within this space, obtaining a Financial Markets Support Services license under Activity Code 6619 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a structured, cost-effective, and strategically sound pathway into one of the region's most lucrative sectors.
What Is the Financial Markets Support Services Activity?
Activity Code 6619 covers "Other Activities Auxiliary to Financial Service Activities." This classification, derived from the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) framework, encompasses a broad range of support functions that facilitate the smooth operation of financial markets without directly engaging in financial intermediation.
Under this license, permitted activities typically include:
Financial market administration and operational support
Securities and commodities exchange support services
Financial data processing and transaction support
Clearing and settlement support functions
Investment and trading advisory support
Financial compliance and regulatory support services
Risk management and financial analysis support
This activity sits within the broader Financial category and is classified under a Business License, making it accessible to a wide range of corporate structures operating within the free zone environment.
Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone?
Dubai South is one of the UAE's most strategically positioned free zones, located adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport and the Expo City district. The Business Hub within Dubai South has been designed to attract financial, logistics, and professional services companies seeking a well-regulated, internationally connected base of operations.
Key advantages of establishing at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone include:
100% foreign ownership permitted
Zero corporate and personal income tax
Full repatriation of profits and capital
Access to a growing ecosystem of financial and professional services firms
Proximity to global logistics infrastructure, enabling cross-border service delivery
Streamlined business setup procedures with dedicated government support
The UAE's broader financial sector has seen consistent growth, with the country ranked among the top 20 global financial centres. Dubai alone accounts for a significant proportion of the region's financial services activity, supported by robust regulatory frameworks and bilateral trade agreements.
Key Stats at a Glance
Activity Code: 6619
License Type: Business License
Category: Financial
Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub
Foreign Ownership: Up to 100%
Corporate Tax Rate: 0% (within free zone parameters)
Estimated Setup Cost: From AED 15,000 to AED 30,000+
Typical License Validity: 1 year (renewable)
Minimum Office Requirement: Flexi-desk or physical office depending on activity scope
Who Is This License Best Suited For?
The Financial Markets Support Services license is particularly well-suited for:
Financial technology firms providing back-office and middle-office support to brokers and fund managers
Compliance and regulatory consultancies serving financial institutions
Data analytics and financial research firms
Risk management service providers
Settlement and clearing support businesses
International firms seeking a UAE presence to service regional clients
Setup Costs and Steps
Setting up under Activity Code 6619 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone involves a clearly defined process. Costs vary depending on the nature of the business, office requirements, and the number of visas required.
Estimated Cost Breakdown
Cost Component | Estimated Range (AED) |
|---|---|
License registration fee | 8,000 to 15,000 |
Office or flexi-desk lease | 5,000 to 20,000 per annum |
Visa fees (per person) | 3,000 to 5,000 |
Medical and Emirates ID | 1,000 to 2,000 |
Miscellaneous government fees | 1,000 to 3,000 |
Step-by-Step Setup Process
Step 1: Select your business activity and confirm it aligns with Activity Code 6619
Step 2: Choose your company structure (FZE, FZC, or branch of existing company)
Step 3: Submit your application to Dubai South Free Zone Authority with required documents
Step 4: Obtain initial approval and select your office or flexi-desk space
Step 5: Pay applicable fees and receive your Business License
Step 6: Open a corporate bank account
Step 7: Apply for investor and employee visas as required
The typical timeline from application to license issuance is between 5 and 15 working days, subject to document completeness and any additional regulatory approvals.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
While the Business License under Activity Code 6619 does not require a full financial services authorisation from the UAE Central Bank or the Securities and Commodities Authority for auxiliary support activities, businesses must remain compliant with the following:
Annual license renewal with updated documentation
Adherence to UAE Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) regulations
Maintaining accurate financial records in line with UAE accounting standards
Compliance with the UAE Corporate Tax Law, including free zone qualifying income provisions
Ensuring all visa holders maintain valid residency status
If the scope of activities extends into regulated financial services, additional approvals from the relevant UAE regulatory authority will be required prior to commencing those operations.
Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for Financial Support Services
The UAE's Vision 2031 economic agenda places significant emphasis on the growth of the financial sector. Dubai's position as a gateway between East and West, combined with its world-class infrastructure, political stability, and progressive regulatory environment, makes it an ideal base for financial markets support businesses. The city hosts a substantial number of global banks, asset managers, and financial institutions, all of which require robust auxiliary support services to operate efficiently.
Furthermore, the UAE's extensive network of double taxation treaties and its membership in key international financial organisations enhances the credibility and reach of businesses registered here.
Related Activities
Financial Advisory And Financial Analysis Business
Financial Consultancy Business License
Financial Instruments Quotation Services Business License
