Dubai has quickly grown to become a global hub for entrepreneurs, thanks to its business-friendly policies and fast setup processes. Now, with more flexible models and a burgeoning digital economy, home-based businesses are becoming a viable alternative to traditional business models. Whether you’re a baker or a business consultant, it’s never been easier to set up a home based business. But to successfully (and legally) launch your home business, you will need to obtain a home business license.
What is a home business license in Dubai?
A Home Business License is a legal permit that allows individuals to operate a business from their home address. It is designed to encourage small business entrepreneurship and part of the UAE government’s goals to diversify its economy. Available for both mainland and free zone businesses, a home business license allows business owners to legally offer services or products without the need for office or retail space. Business owners can open corporate bank accounts, issue invoices and issue legal contracts, all as a legitimate entity.
What is an Intelaq license?
An Intelaq License is a type of home-based business license issued by Dubai SME, a division in the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in Dubai. It is specifically designed to help people launch commercial businesses from home in a legally recognised and structured way. It is part of the broader ecosystem developed by Dubai SME to enable small business growth and contribute to the sustainable development of the local economy, particularly in the micro-enterprise segment.
The Intelaq License is valid for one year and is renewable annually. It costs AED 1,050 to issue and renew the license.
Eligibility requirements for a home business license in Dubai
Anyone can apply for a home business license in Dubai, provided they meet the following requirements:
- The house/residence must be located in the Emirate of Dubai.
- The enterprise must be 100% owned and managed by UAE or GCC Nationals.
- The applicant must not have more than five trade licences (including licences that he/she partly owns or manages).
You will also need to provide a range of documents, including an Emirates ID and a copy of passport or original decree.
To ensure you meet the requirements and have the right documents, we recommend working with a reputable business setup consultancy like Set Hub. Feel free to get in touch with our team to find out more about how we can help.
Activities permitted with a home business license in Dubai
There are over 1,200 activities allowed under a Home Business license, covering a broad range of sectors. These include:
- Professional services, such as freelance writing, graphic design, photography, translation and accounting.
- E-commerce and online trading, including selling locally sourced products, dropshipping and digital products
- Creative services, such as fashion design, art and calligraphy
- Consultancy and coaching
- Administrative and support services, such as data entry and event planning
- Educational services, including private tutoring and language instruction
- Home-based food businesses, such as baking and catering for small events.
Get in touch with our team for a comprehensive list of activities to ensure you are legally allowed to operate your business and avoid unnecessary services.
Benefits of having a home business license in Dubai
Cost-effective business setup
Home business licenses are more affordable than traditional licenses. Office and retail space in Dubai can be expensive, particularly when you factor in overheads like maintenance and staff. It lowers initial capital requirements, as well as ongoing operational costs
Compliance
It is illegal to operate a business without a license in Dubai and doing so can lead to fines, business closure and legal action. By obtaining a home business license, you can ensure your activities comply with the legal framework established by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant Free Zone authorities. This legal recognition means you can avoid penalties and build credibility with clients, suppliers and financial institutions. Without a license, you won’t be able to open a corporate bank account either
Better work-life balance
Home business licenses offer the freedom to work from home, giving entrepreneurs the chance to balance their professional and personal lives more effectively. Working from home offers the opportunity to work your preferred hours, eliminate commuting and create your ideal working schedule. Caregivers and parents in particular can benefit from this arrangement.
Access to government support and incentives
Just because you’re working from home, doesn’t mean you can’t tap into Dubai’s many government schemes and support programmes. Home business license holders can take advantage of business development programs, training workshops, networking events and funding opportunities offered by entities like Dubai SME. Licensed businesses can also apply for visas for themselves and their employees.
Opportunity to scale and diversify
Starting with a home business license is a fantastic stepping stone for expansion.
Start your business in Dubai with Set Hub.
At Set Hub, we specialise in business setup in Dubai and simplifying the process of getting licenses, including home business licenses. Our mission is to make starting your home-based business smooth and hassle-free, to help you focus on growing your venture rather than dealing with complex paperwork. From guiding you through license applications and trade name registration to advising on local regulations and compliance, we offer comprehensive support every step of the way. Our deep understanding of Dubai’s business environment ensures you avoid common pitfalls and save valuable time.
Navigating the legal and administrative requirements for a home business license can be daunting, but with Set Hub by your side, you gain a trusted partner who handles the technicalities efficiently. We also assist with related services such as visa processing, opening corporate bank accounts, and understanding tax obligations tailored specifically for home-based entrepreneurs.
If you’re considering launching a home-based business in Dubai, contact our experienced team today. Whether you’re freelancing, consulting, or running an e-commerce operation, we provide personalised solutions designed to suit your unique needs. As your long-term partner, we can help you establish a compliant, thriving home business that meets Dubai’s regulatory standards and positions you for success in the competitive UAE market.
