Foreign Securities Promotion Business Licence in Dubai

Dubai's position as a global financial corridor makes it one of the most strategically advantageous locations for businesses promoting foreign securities to institutional and retail investors alike. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Foreign Securities Promotion Business Licence (Activity Code 7310.97) at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, from setup costs and compliance steps to why Dubai is built for this activity.

What the Foreign Securities Promotion Licence Covers

Activity Code 7310.97 is classified as a Professional activity under a Business Licence category. It authorises the promotion and marketing of securities issued by foreign entities to investors in and through Dubai, giving qualifying businesses a legitimate and structured pathway to reach GCC and wider MENA audiences.

The licence covers advisory, promotional, and intermediary functions related to foreign financial instruments, including foreign-listed equities, bonds, and structured investment products. Businesses holding this licence can engage in investor outreach, produce promotional materials, and act as intermediaries connecting foreign issuers with local and regional investors.

It is important to note that this licence does not extend to direct trading or asset management. Any firm wishing to conduct those activities will require additional regulatory approvals from the relevant UAE financial authorities.

UAE and Dubai Market Context

The UAE consistently ranks among the top ten global financial centres, with Dubai accounting for a significant share of regional capital flows. Dubai South Free Zone is situated adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, positioning it as a key logistics and business hub with direct connectivity to major international markets.

The UAE's non-oil GDP grew at approximately 4.5% in 2024, underpinning strong and sustained demand for diversified investment products across the region. Alongside this economic expansion, the GCC has seen a growing base of high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors actively seeking exposure to international securities markets.

The regulatory environment is well-aligned with international standards. The UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) governs securities-related activities and has progressively modernised its framework to attract reputable global financial businesses. This combination of economic growth, investor appetite, and regulatory credibility makes Dubai a compelling base for foreign securities promotion.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Activity Code: 7310.97 | Licence Type: Business Licence | Category: Professional

• UAE non-oil GDP growth: approximately 4.5% in 2024

• Double taxation agreements with over 130 countries

• 100% foreign ownership permitted at Dubai South Free Zone

• Estimated licence fees: AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 annually

• Estimated setup timeline: 5 to 10 working days

• Zero personal income tax and qualifying free zone corporate tax exemptions available

Who This Licence Suits and Setup Requirements

This licence is ideally suited to international brokerage firms, investment promotion agencies, and financial advisory businesses seeking a UAE base from which to access GCC and MENA investors. It is particularly relevant for businesses marketing foreign-listed equities, bonds, or structured products to regional clients.

One of the most attractive features of Dubai South Free Zone is that 100% foreign ownership is permitted, removing the need for a local sponsor or partner. There is no requirement for a physical warehouse or large commercial facility. A standard business centre or flexi-desk arrangement is sufficient to satisfy the operational address requirements for this licence type. Minimum share capital requirements may apply; businesses should confirm current thresholds directly with the Dubai South authority at the time of application.

Licensing and Compliance Requirements

The Business Licence is issued by the Dubai South Free Zone authority. Depending on the precise scope of promotional activities undertaken, SCA registration or a no-objection letter may also be required. Businesses are strongly advised to appoint a qualified compliance officer to meet anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) obligations under UAE law.

The licence is subject to annual renewal, which requires updated documentation and timely fee payment. All licence holders must adhere to UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2000 on the SCA and any subsequent amendments or relevant securities regulations issued by the authority.

Setup Costs and Steps

Licence fees at Dubai South typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 annually, depending on the package selected. Additional costs to budget for include visa fees, notarisation of documents, and charges for a registered address or flexi-desk arrangement.

The setup process follows a clear sequence:

• Submit the application and a business plan to Dubai South Free Zone

• Provide passport copies, proof of address, and corporate documents for all shareholders and directors

• Pay licence and registration fees upon receipt of approval

• Obtain Emirates ID and residence visas for relevant personnel

• Open a UAE corporate bank account to commence operations

The estimated timeline from application submission to licence issuance is 5 to 10 working days, making this one of the more efficient free zone setup processes available in the UAE.

Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for Foreign Securities Promotion

Dubai offers a compelling combination of fiscal, regulatory, and geographic advantages for businesses in the foreign securities promotion space. Qualifying free zone income benefits from zero corporate tax under the UAE's 9% corporate tax framework, and there is no personal income tax, making Dubai an attractive destination for senior financial professionals considering relocation.

Dubai's time zone bridges Asian and European markets, enabling real-time investor engagement across multiple jurisdictions within a single business day. The city's robust financial infrastructure, including the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), supports a mature and well-connected securities ecosystem.

The UAE has established double taxation agreements with over 130 countries, reducing the tax burden for businesses operating across borders. Dubai South's proximity to Expo City and its integrated logistics networks further support both client-facing functions and back-office operations for financial services firms.

Conclusion

A Foreign Securities Promotion Business Licence at Dubai South Free Zone offers international financial businesses a cost-effective, compliant, and strategically located base to access GCC and MENA investors, backed by a transparent regulatory framework and favourable tax conditions. Contact a Dubai South-registered business setup consultant today to begin your licence application and receive a tailored cost estimate for your foreign securities promotion business.

References

• UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) - Official Website

• Dubai South Free Zone - Official Business Setup Information

• UAE Government - Financial Sector Overview

• UAE Ministry of Finance - Double Taxation Agreements

• Federal Tax Authority - UAE Corporate Tax Information