Provision of Internet Access Over Networks Between the Client and the Isp Not Owned or Controlled by the Isp, Such as Dial-Up Internet Access Etc. Business License in Dubai: Cost and Requirements

Steven Thama

Steven Thama

Steven Thama

5 min read
5 min read

Last Updated on

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Topic Summary

  1. What Activity Code 6190.03 Actually Covers

    This license authorizes businesses to provide internet access over networks not owned or controlled by the ISP, including dial-up services, reselling connectivity, and acting as an intermediary between end users and primary ISPs. It aligns with international ISIC classification standards, ensuring global compliance recognition.

  2. Who Benefits Most From This License

    The license is ideal for telecom resellers, ICT entrepreneurs, international tech companies, and startups that aggregate connectivity from multiple ISPs without owning physical infrastructure. It suits businesses looking to enter the UAE's digital services market without the overhead of building their own network.

  3. Dubai's Market Makes a Strong Case

    The UAE boasts an internet penetration rate exceeding 99%, making it one of the world's most connected markets and a prime location for ICT businesses. Dubai's regulatory environment actively encourages foreign investment, with thousands of ICT companies already operating in the emirate.

  4. Dubai South Free Zone Offers Strategic Advantages

    Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone sits adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport and Expo City, providing direct access to global logistics networks. Its growing ICT business community and business-friendly regulations make it a compelling base for internet access providers.

  5. 100% Foreign Ownership With Tax Benefits

    Businesses licensed in Dubai South Free Zone can be 100% foreign-owned, removing the traditional requirement for a local partner. Qualifying free zone income is exempt from both personal income tax and corporate tax, significantly improving profitability.

  6. Fast Setup Timeline of 3 to 7 Days

    The license application process at Dubai South Business Hub can be completed in as few as three to seven working days, making it one of the faster routes to legal operation in the UAE. Companies can be structured as a Free Zone Establishment or Free Zone Company depending on ownership needs.

  7. Costs Vary Based on Office and Visa Needs

    Setup costs for Activity Code 6190.03 depend on factors such as office space type, the number of visas required, and any additional services selected during registration. Prospective applicants should assess these variables early to budget accurately for their launch.

Provision of Internet Access Over Networks Between the Client and the ISP Not Owned or Controlled by the ISP Business License in Dubai: Cost and Requirements

As digital connectivity becomes the backbone of modern commerce, businesses that facilitate internet access across third-party networks are increasingly in demand. Dubai's strategic position as a global technology hub makes it one of the most attractive destinations for ICT enterprises looking to establish or expand their operations. Whether you are launching a dial-up internet access service or a broader network facilitation business, obtaining the correct business license in Dubai is the essential first step.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the Provision of Internet Access Over Networks Between the Client and the ISP Not Owned or Controlled by the ISP business license (Activity Code 6190.03) at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, including costs, requirements, and the advantages of operating in the UAE.

What the License Covers

Infographic: Provision Of Internet Access Over Networks Between The Client And The Isp Not Owned Or Controlled By The Isp, Such As Dial-Up Internet Access Etc. Business License in Dubai: Cost and Requirements

Activity Code 6190.03 falls under the ICT category and is classified as a Business License. It specifically covers the provision of internet access over networks that are not owned or controlled by the Internet Service Provider (ISP). This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Dial-up internet access services provided via third-party network infrastructure

  • Reselling or facilitating internet connectivity over leased or shared network lines

  • Providing end-user internet access through networks owned by other operators

  • Acting as an intermediary between the end client and the primary ISP using external network assets

This activity is aligned with international classification standards under ISIC (International Standard Industrial Classification), ensuring that your business is recognised and compliant within a globally accepted framework.

Who This License Suits

This license is particularly well-suited for:

  • Telecommunications resellers seeking to offer internet access without owning physical infrastructure

  • ICT entrepreneurs entering the UAE's fast-growing digital services market

  • International technology companies looking to establish a UAE base for regional operations

  • Startups focused on providing internet access solutions to underserved or niche markets

  • Businesses that aggregate and resell connectivity from multiple ISPs to end users

UAE and Dubai Market Context

The UAE ranks among the world's top countries for internet penetration, with a rate exceeding 99% of the population according to recent data from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). Dubai alone hosts thousands of ICT businesses, supported by a regulatory environment that actively encourages foreign investment and innovation.

Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone is one of the emirate's most strategically located free zones, situated adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport and the Expo City district. It offers businesses direct access to global logistics networks, a business-friendly regulatory environment, and a growing community of technology and ICT enterprises.

Key Stats at a Glance

  • Activity Code: 6190.03

  • License Type: Business License

  • Category: ICT

  • UAE Internet Penetration Rate: Over 99%

  • Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub

  • Foreign Ownership Permitted: 100%

  • Typical License Setup Timeline: 3 to 7 working days

  • No personal income tax or corporate tax on qualifying free zone income

Setup Costs and Steps

The cost of setting up a business under Activity Code 6190.03 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone varies depending on the type of office space, visa requirements, and additional services selected. Broadly, the setup process involves the following steps:

  1. Choose your business activity: Confirm that Activity Code 6190.03 aligns with your intended operations.

  2. Select a company structure: Free zone companies can be established as a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) or Free Zone Company (FZC).

  3. Submit your application: Provide passport copies, business plan, and supporting documents to the free zone authority.

  4. Pay license and registration fees: Fees typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 25,000 depending on the package and visa allocation.

  5. Obtain your business license: Once approved, receive your official business license to commence operations.

  6. Open a corporate bank account: Several UAE banks offer dedicated free zone business accounts.

Additional costs may include office or flexi-desk rental, visa fees per employee, and any sector-specific regulatory approvals required by the TDRA.

Licensing and Compliance Requirements

Businesses operating under this activity code must adhere to UAE telecommunications regulations. Key compliance considerations include:

  • Registration with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) where applicable

  • Compliance with UAE data protection and cybersecurity frameworks

  • Adherence to free zone authority rules and annual license renewal obligations

  • Maintaining accurate records of network access agreements with third-party infrastructure providers

Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for This Trade

Dubai offers a combination of advantages that are difficult to match globally. The city's position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it an ideal hub for ICT businesses with regional or international ambitions. The UAE government's Vision 2031 and various digital economy initiatives continue to drive demand for internet access and connectivity services. Free zone benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and exemption from import and export duties further enhance the commercial case for setting up in Dubai South.

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