There’s no denying that cybersecurity has become more important than ever. As the global digital landscape evolves at a rapid pace, businesses and governments are increasingly seeking out robust cybersecurity measures – and in a digital-first, tech-forward region like the UAE, the opportunities for licensed cybersecurity services are endless. But in order to benefit from the region’s business-friendly regulations, talent and opportunities, you need to ensure that you can legally operate a cybersecurity business. For this, you need a cybersecurity license.
What is a Cybersecurity license?
If you plan to set up any kind of cybersecurity company, you will need a cybersecurity license to legally operate your business. This is an official authorisation issued by the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) to ensure that all companies offering cyber security services comply with local regulations. This system helps to ensure that businesses maintain high standards and that they have the appropriate expertise and experience to handle and protect critical systems. Any entity offering cybersecurity services will need to apply for and obtain a cybersecurity license, from consultancy to risk assessment to software development.
How to get a cybersecurity license in Dubai: Step-by-Step
Dubai might be one of the easiest places in the world to do business, but ensuring you stay compliant with local regulations requires local insights and on-the-ground expertise. Without it, you risk delaying your application, or worse, failing to meet essential criteria required by the relevant authorities. At Set Hub, we have helped hundreds of tech entrepreneurs successfully apply for the relevant license quickly and efficiently. For the latest guidance and advice on your application, feel free to reach out to our expert team of advisors. In the meantime, if you’re not sure what to expect, we’ve broken down the process of applying for a cybersecurity license in Dubai into six simple steps:
Step 1: Determine your business activity
To apply for your license, you will need to identify any specific cybersecurity services you plan to offer in your application. The DESC offers a comprehensive list of trade license activities offering cybersecurity-related services and continues to add more to the list as the industry evolves.
Currently, the list of cybersecurity-related activities includes: cyber security consultancy, jamming equipment trading, jamming software trading, encryption equipment trading, encryption software trading, cloud service and data centre providers, cyber risk management, cyber security architecture, auditing, reviewing and testing cyber risks, data centre co-location services, network consultancies, information technology consultants IT infrastructure and public networking services.
Step 2: Choose a business structure and jurisdiction
You will need to apply for your cybersecurity license through your chosen jurisdiction, so you will need to decide whether to operate a mainland or free zone business early on in the process. Both offer different advantages. Mainland businesses offer broader market access within the UAE, while free zones offer streamlined setup processes and significant tax benefits. Set Hub can help you choose the best option for your business needs.
Step 3: Register your trade name
You will need to choose a unique and appropriate name for your business that reflects what you do. Make sure it complies with UAE naming conventions and does not include abbreviations or potentially offensive language.
Step 4: Get the necessary approvals
You may need to get further approvals for your trade license, depending on whether you choose to operate a mainland or free zone. For instance, if you choose to operate your business on the mainland, you will need approvals from the Department of Economic Development (DED). You will also likely need regulatory body approvals for specific services you plan to provide. If your business involves activities that impact critical infrastructure or high-security operations, you will probably need approvals from the Ministry of Interior (MOI) too.
Step 5: Secure your office space
If you plan to operate offices, you will need to lease or purchase the space at the point to ensure you can provide tenancy/purchase agreements in your application.
Step 6: Submit your application and pay the fees
You will need to complete the application form and provide a selection of supporting documents, such as passports, visas, and lease agreements. Set Hub will be able to check this to ensure you meet all requirements. You will also need to pay an application fee. Once your license has been issued, you are free to start business operations.
Benefits of getting a cybersecurity license in Dubai
Cyber businesses are booming across the globe, so why choose Dubai?
Foreign investment and partnerships
Dubai is a thriving global business hub and attracts thousands of foreign companies and investors every year. That means increased opportunities for licensed cybersecurity firms to tap into, whether it’s a joint venture, collaboration or even a merger with a foreign business. Businesses that are licensed and recognised by UAE authorities are highly esteemed by international businesses too, making it a more attractive option for investment.
Strategic location
Dubai is conveniently located at the crossroads of Asia, Europe and Africa. Digital transformation is accelerating across the MENA region and demands for cybersecurity have skyrocketed over the past few years. Locating your business in Dubai offers easy access to global markets, as well as emerging neighbouring markets.
Government support
Dubai’s government has invested heavily in secure digital infrastructure as part of its Smart City initiatives and aims to become a global leader in technology, while the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) actively promotes cybersecurity in the city. This high-level support makes it easier for cybersecurity businesses to boost the bottom line through business-friendly regulations, access accelerator and funding programmes and ensure their business becomes a success.
Access to a global talent pool and networking opportunities
Cybersecurity is thriving in the UAE. This, combined with generous tax allowances such as 0% income tax and long-term visas, attracts high-calibre talent in high volumes, making it easier to recruit skilled workers. Dubai also hosts numerous business and technology networking events, from global conferences and trade fairs to seminars and workshops, making it easier for entrepreneurs to meet potential clients, partners and investors.
Why work with Set Hub?
At Set Hub, we provide comprehensive business setup solutions in Dubai that focus on your specific business needs. Our suite of services includes company formation, visa and residence, corporate banking, tax and accounting, HR and recruitment, brand and marketing, and office space. We make it our mission to help entrepreneurs build businesses in Dubai that thrive – and we do this with care and expertise. If you’re considering starting a cybersecurity business in Dubai, get in touch with us today to discuss exactly what we can do and how we can help turn your business idea into a lucrative opportunity.
