How to Get a Metal Engineering Services Business License in Dubai

Dubai's manufacturing and industrial sectors are expanding at a pace that few global cities can match. For businesses involved in the fabrication, processing, or engineering of metal components, the emirate offers a compelling combination of strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and a business-friendly regulatory environment. Securing a Metal Engineering Services business licence under activity code 7110.74 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is one of the most direct routes into this growing market.

What the Metal Engineering Services Licence Covers

The Metal Engineering Services licence (activity code 7110.74) falls under the Professional category of Business Licences. It authorises companies to provide a broad range of engineering activities related to metal products and structures. Permitted activities typically include:

• Design and consultancy for metal engineering projects

• Fabrication and processing of metal components

• Structural metal engineering services

• Quality inspection and testing of metal works

• Technical advisory services for metal manufacturing operations

This licence is classified under the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) framework, which ensures that the activity aligns with internationally recognised trade and industry categories, facilitating smoother cross-border operations and banking relationships.

Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone

Dubai South is positioned as the emirate's urban aviation and logistics hub, built around Al Maktoum International Airport. The free zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero corporate and personal income tax, full repatriation of profits and capital, and access to one of the world's busiest cargo corridors. For metal engineering businesses, proximity to logistics infrastructure means faster movement of raw materials and finished goods to markets across Africa, Asia, and Europe.

The UAE's non-oil GDP has been growing steadily, with the industrial sector receiving significant government investment under initiatives such as Operation 300bn, which aims to triple the manufacturing sector's contribution to GDP to AED 300 billion by 2031. Metal engineering services sit directly within this growth agenda.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Activity Code: 7110.74

• Licence Type: Business Licence

• Category: Professional

• Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub

• Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted

• Corporate Tax: 0% within free zone (subject to qualifying conditions)

• UAE Manufacturing GDP Target: AED 300 billion by 2031 (Operation 300bn)

• Typical Licence Setup Timeline: 3 to 7 working days for documentation approval

Who This Licence Is Suited For

This licence is well-suited for independent metal engineering consultants, SMEs offering specialist fabrication services, international firms seeking a UAE base for regional operations, and entrepreneurs looking to supply the construction, oil and gas, or aerospace sectors. Given Dubai South's direct connection to aviation and freight infrastructure, businesses involved in precision metal components for aerospace or defence supply chains will find the location particularly advantageous.

Steps to Obtain the Licence

1. Choose Your Business Structure

Applicants can register as a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) with a single shareholder or a Free Zone Company (FZCO) with multiple shareholders. Both structures benefit from full foreign ownership.

2. Prepare Your Documentation

Required documents generally include a completed application form, passport copies of all shareholders and directors, a business plan, and proof of address. Additional approvals from relevant UAE authorities may be required depending on the specific scope of engineering activities.

3. Submit and Pay Licence Fees

Licence fees vary based on business structure and office or facility package selected. Dubai South offers flexi-desk, serviced office, and warehouse options to accommodate different operational scales.

4. Receive Licence and Open a Corporate Bank Account

Once approved, the licence is issued and the business can proceed with corporate bank account opening, visa applications, and operational setup.

Conclusion

Dubai's industrial ambitions, tax-efficient free zone framework, and unmatched logistics connectivity make it an outstanding base for metal engineering services businesses. The 7110.74 licence at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone provides a clear, structured pathway to operating legally and competitively in one of the world's most dynamic trade environments. If you are ready to establish your metal engineering services company in Dubai, speaking with a licensed business setup consultant is the recommended first step.

References

• Dubai South Free Zone Official Website

• UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology: Operation 300bn

• UAE Ministry of Economy

• United Nations: International Standard Industrial Classification of All Economic Activities (ISIC), Revision 4