How to Get an Investments Consultancy Business License in Dubai
Dubai has firmly established itself as one of the world's most attractive destinations for financial services businesses. With a strategic location bridging East and West, a pro-business regulatory environment, and a rapidly expanding investor base, the emirate offers exceptional conditions for investment professionals. If you are looking to set up an investments consultancy in Dubai, obtaining the correct license is the essential first step, and Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone provides one of the most streamlined pathways available.
What Is an Investments Consultancy License?
An investments consultancy business license in Dubai falls under the Financial category and carries the activity code 6619.11. This license authorises the holder to provide professional advisory services related to investment strategies, portfolio planning, asset allocation, and financial decision-making for individuals, corporations, and institutional clients.
The license covers a broad scope of consultancy activities, including advising on equities, bonds, real estate investments, mutual funds, and alternative assets. It does not, however, permit the holder to directly manage client funds or execute trades on behalf of clients without additional regulatory approvals from the relevant financial authorities.
Who Is This License Suited For?
This license is well-suited to a wide range of professionals and organisations, including:
Independent financial advisers and investment consultants
Boutique investment advisory firms
Wealth management professionals seeking to establish a UAE presence
International consultancy firms expanding into the Middle East market
Entrepreneurs with expertise in capital markets, private equity, or venture capital
The free zone structure at Dubai South Business Hub is particularly attractive to foreign entrepreneurs, as it permits 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor.
Why Dubai Is Well-Positioned for Investment Consultancy
Dubai's financial ecosystem is among the most sophisticated in the emerging markets world. The UAE attracted foreign direct investment inflows of approximately USD 30.7 billion in 2023, reflecting continued confidence from global investors. Dubai is home to more than 4,500 financial services firms and benefits from a zero personal income tax environment, making it highly competitive for finance professionals.
Dubai South Free Zone, in particular, sits adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport and the Expo City district, positioning businesses within a master-planned economic zone designed to support global trade and services. Its streamlined licensing procedures and dedicated business support infrastructure make it a preferred choice for financial services startups and established firms alike.
Key Stats at a Glance
Activity Code: 6619.11
License Type: Business License
Category: Financial
Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub
Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted
UAE FDI Inflows (2023): USD 30.7 billion
Corporate Tax Rate: 9% (applicable on profits above AED 375,000)
Personal Income Tax: 0%
Setup Costs and What to Expect
License fees at Dubai South Business Hub vary depending on the office package selected, the number of visa allocations required, and any additional regulatory approvals needed. Typical costs include the license registration fee, establishment card fees, and the cost of a physical or flexi-desk office space. It is advisable to request a detailed cost breakdown directly from the free zone authority, as fee structures are updated periodically.
Additional costs to factor in include professional indemnity insurance, bank account setup fees, and any compliance-related expenditure if you intend to seek approval from the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) for regulated advisory activities.
Steps to Obtain Your Investments Consultancy License
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Determine whether you will operate as a sole establishment, a free zone limited liability company (FZ-LLC), or a branch of an existing company. Most new entrants opt for the FZ-LLC structure.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Complete the application through Dubai South Business Hub's registration portal or via an authorised business setup consultant. You will need to provide passport copies, a business plan outline, and proposed company name options.
Step 3: Obtain Initial Approval
The free zone authority will review your application and issue initial approval, typically within a few working days.
Step 4: Sign Lease Agreement
Select and sign a lease for your chosen office facility, whether a flexi-desk, serviced office, or dedicated unit.
Step 5: Pay Fees and Receive License
Upon payment of all applicable fees, your business license will be issued. You can then proceed to apply for residency visas and open a corporate bank account.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
Holders of an investments consultancy license must ensure ongoing compliance with UAE commercial laws and free zone regulations. If your consultancy activities extend to regulated financial advice, you may also require registration or approval from the Securities and Commodities Authority or the Dubai Financial Services Authority, depending on the nature of services offered. Annual license renewal is mandatory, and businesses must maintain accurate financial records in line with UAE accounting standards.
Related Activities
Financial Consultancy Business License
Mortgage Consultancy Business License
Real Estate Mortgage Consultancy Business License
