Apply for a Phone & Online Information Services Business License in Dubai
The demand for telephone-based and online information services is accelerating across the Middle East, with the UAE sitting at the centre of that growth. Businesses that provide directory enquiries, helpline services, data lookup, and digital information platforms are finding the Emirates an increasingly attractive base of operations. If you are planning to enter this sector, securing the right license is the critical first step.
This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Phone & Online Information Services Business License under activity code 6399.01 at Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, including what the license covers, who it suits, the setup process, costs, and compliance requirements.
What Is the Phone & Online Information Services License?
The Phone & Online Information Services license falls under the ICT category and carries the ISIC activity code 6399.01. It is classified as a Business License and is issued through Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, one of the UAE's most strategically positioned free zones, located adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport.
This license permits operators to conduct activities that include:
Providing telephone-based information and enquiry services
Operating online information portals and digital data services
Delivering directory and reference services via telephone or internet
Offering subscription-based or pay-per-use information platforms
Running customer helplines and information hotlines for third-party clients
The license does not cover broadcasting, telecommunications infrastructure, or financial advisory services, which require separate regulatory approvals.
Who Is This License Suited To?
This license is well suited to a broad range of operators, including:
Entrepreneurs launching digital information platforms targeting GCC audiences
International companies seeking a regional hub to deliver telephone and online support services
Technology startups building subscription-based knowledge or data services
Outsourcing firms providing information helpline services to corporate clients
Media and publishing groups extending their services into digital directories
Given the UAE's high smartphone penetration rate of over 97% and internet usage above 99% of the population, the market opportunity for information service providers is substantial.
Key Stats at a Glance
Infographic: Phone & Online Information Services in Dubai
Activity Code: 6399.01
License Type: Business License
Category: ICT
Free Zone: Dubai South Business Hub
UAE Internet Penetration: Over 99%
UAE Smartphone Penetration: Over 97%
Foreign Ownership Allowed: 100%
Typical Setup Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks
UAE ICT Sector Contribution to GDP: Approximately 4.3%
Why Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone?
Dubai South is a purpose-built economic zone covering 145 square kilometres. Its proximity to Al Maktoum International Airport, which is projected to become the world's largest airport, makes it a genuine logistics and business gateway. For information services businesses, the free zone offers 100% foreign ownership, zero personal income tax, full repatriation of profits, and access to a well-regulated commercial environment overseen by the Dubai South Free Zone Authority.
The UAE's broader digital infrastructure further supports this sector. The country consistently ranks among the top globally for fixed broadband and mobile connectivity, and the government's UAE Digital Economy Strategy targets doubling the digital economy's contribution to GDP within ten years.
Setup Steps and Licensing Process
Setting up under activity code 6399.01 at Dubai South Business Hub involves a straightforward sequence of steps:
Choose your business structure: Options include a Free Zone Establishment (FZE) for a single shareholder or a Free Zone Company (FZCO) for multiple shareholders.
Reserve your trade name: Submit your preferred company name to the free zone authority for approval, ensuring it complies with UAE naming conventions.
Submit your application: Provide passport copies, a completed application form, and your business plan or activity description.
Select your office or flexi-desk package: Dubai South offers flexi-desk, shared office, and dedicated office options depending on your operational needs.
Pay license and registration fees: Fees vary based on entity type and office package selected.
Receive your license: Once approved, your Business License is issued, typically within two to four weeks.
Open a corporate bank account: The UAE has a well-developed banking sector with several institutions experienced in onboarding free zone entities.
Costs to Consider
While costs vary and should be confirmed directly with Dubai South, typical expenses include:
License registration and issuance fees
Office or flexi-desk rental fees (annual)
Visa costs per employee or shareholder
Bank account opening charges
Any applicable notarisation or attestation fees for company documents
Free zone licenses in Dubai South are generally considered cost-competitive relative to mainland Dubai, making them attractive for startups and growing businesses alike.
Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
Operators holding a Phone & Online Information Services license must remain compliant with the following:
Annual license renewal with the Dubai South Free Zone Authority
Adherence to the UAE's Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) guidelines where services interact with public telecommunications networks
Compliance with UAE data protection regulations, including Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on the Protection of Personal Data
Anti-money laundering (AML) obligations applicable to all UAE-registered businesses
Maintaining a registered office address within the free zone
Why the UAE Is Well-Positioned for This Trade
The UAE offers a combination of factors that few markets can match for information services businesses. A highly educated, multilingual workforce, world-class digital infrastructure, a tax-efficient commercial environment, and a central geographic position between Europe, Asia, and Africa all contribute to the country's appeal. The government's ongoing investment in smart city initiatives and AI adoption further expands the market for businesses delivering data and information services.
Dubai's position as a regional headquarters hub also means that demand for professional information services, from corporate directories to specialised helplines, continues to grow year on year.
Related Activities
Information Search Services On A Contract Or Fee Basis Business
Non-Commercial Information Services Business License
News Clipping Services, Press Clipping Services, Etc. Business License
