Non-Commercial Information Services Business License in Dubai

As the UAE cements its position as a global digital economy hub, Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone offers a direct pathway for information service providers to operate under a structured, compliant framework. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Non-Commercial Information Services Business License (Activity Code 6399.97) at Dubai South, from setup costs and steps to compliance requirements and market opportunity.

Key Stats at a Glance

• Activity Code: 6399.97

• License Type: Business License

• Category: ICT

• Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub

• Foreign Ownership: 100% permitted

• Corporate Tax on Qualifying Free Zone Income: 0%

• Personal Income Tax: None

• UAE Digital Economy GDP Target: 20% contribution

• Typical License Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks

Dubai's ICT Landscape and Market Opportunity

The UAE's ICT sector continues to expand at a significant pace, underpinned by government-led digital transformation programmes and strong private sector investment. The UAE Digital Economy Strategy aims to double the digital economy's contribution to GDP, targeting a 20% share, making it one of the most ambitious national digitalisation agendas in the region. This creates a compelling environment for information service providers seeking a stable and growth-oriented market.

Dubai South is strategically positioned adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport, which serves as a logistics and connectivity gateway linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. This geographic advantage is particularly valuable for businesses that distribute information assets or data services across multiple regions and time zones.

Free zone ICT licenses attract global operators for several reasons. Businesses benefit from streamlined registration processes, full repatriation of profits, and access to a business-friendly regulatory environment. With the UAE ranking consistently among the world's top destinations for ease of doing business, Dubai South's Business Hub Free Zone presents an efficient and credible base for information service operators looking to establish a regional or international presence.

What the Non-Commercial Information Services License Covers

Activity Code 6399.97 falls under the ICT category and covers the provision of non-commercial information services not elsewhere classified under the ISIC framework. This license is issued as a Business License by Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone and is designed for entities that collect, process, and disseminate information without a direct commercial transaction being the primary purpose.

Permitted activities under this classification typically include data aggregation, information dissemination, reference services, and the operation of knowledge-sharing platforms. The license distinguishes itself from commercial information service activities by focusing on the non-transactional provision of information, which may include research outputs, public interest data, or educational reference material.

Under the ISIC classification system, non-commercial information services sit apart from paid database services or subscription-based information products. This distinction matters for regulatory compliance, VAT treatment, and the nature of partnerships an organisation may form with public bodies or academic institutions.

Who This License Is Suited For

This license is well suited to a range of organisations and individuals, including:

• Non-profit information bodies and research dissemination organisations seeking a formal UAE presence

• Knowledge-sharing platforms and open-access data initiatives targeting the Middle East and North Africa region

• Entrepreneurs and SMEs that require a compliant ICT base within a free zone environment

• Foreign nationals and corporate groups that wish to retain 100% ownership without the need for a local sponsor

Setup Costs, Steps, and Timelines

Setting up under Activity Code 6399.97 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone involves a transparent process with clearly defined stages. Indicative costs include the license registration fee, which varies depending on the selected office package and number of shareholders. Flexi-desk arrangements are available at a lower cost than dedicated office units, making this an accessible option for lean or early-stage operations.

The step-by-step process typically follows this sequence:

• Submit an initial application form to the Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone authority

• Provide the required documentation including passport copies, a business plan, proof of address, and shareholder details

• Await review and any requests for additional information or approvals

• Receive in-principle approval and pay the applicable license and registration fees

• Collect the issued Business License and proceed with visa applications and bank account opening

From application submission to license issuance, the process typically takes between two and four weeks, provided all documentation is complete and no additional regulatory approvals are required.

Key Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:

• Passport copies for all shareholders and directors

• A concise business plan outlining the nature of the information services to be provided

• Proof of residential address for each shareholder

• Shareholder and ownership structure details

• Any applicable No Objection Certificates (NOCs) if the activity intersects with regulated information domains

Licensing, Compliance, and Regulatory Requirements

Once issued, the Business License is subject to annual renewal with the Dubai South Free Zone Authority. License holders must maintain their registered office address within the free zone and comply with all applicable free zone regulations, including timely renewal of trade licenses and employee visas.

UAE Federal data protection legislation, including the Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on the Protection of Personal Data, applies to organisations handling personal data as part of their information services. Businesses should ensure their data handling practices align with these requirements from the outset.

Foreign ownership is fully permitted within Dubai South Free Zone, meaning there is no requirement to appoint a UAE national as a sponsor or partner. This is a significant advantage for international operators and corporate groups.

With regard to VAT, the UAE applies a standard rate of 5% on most goods and services. Businesses with taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 per annum are required to register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority. Non-commercial information services may qualify for exemptions or zero-rating in specific circumstances, and professional tax advice is recommended to confirm treatment for a particular activity.

Why Dubai South Is the Right Base for Information Service Providers

Dubai South offers a combination of infrastructure, talent, and tax advantages that few global free zones can match. The zone's proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport provides world-class logistics connectivity, supporting the distribution of information products and services across international markets.

The UAE's diverse, multilingual workforce means businesses can recruit professionals with expertise across technology, research, communications, and data management. This talent pool is essential for organisations building information service operations at scale.

From a tax perspective, qualifying free zone businesses benefit from a 0% corporate tax rate on eligible income, and there is no personal income tax in the UAE. These advantages, combined with full profit repatriation rights, make Dubai South a financially attractive base.

The zone's growing ecosystem of ICT businesses, proximity to government entities, and links to technology parks across Dubai further strengthen the case for information service providers seeking a well-connected, future-ready operational base.

Related Activities

• Phone & Online Information Services Business License

• Information Search Services On A Contract Or Fee Basis Business

• News Clipping Services, Press Clipping Services, Etc. Business License