How to Get an AI Business License in UAE
1. Choose the Right Business Structure
AI companies in the UAE can be registered in:
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DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) – Best for AI startups & fintech companies.
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ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market) – Ideal for AI-driven investment & finance solutions.
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Dubai Internet City (DIC) – Great for AI software and tech companies.
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DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) – Suitable for AI-powered trading & automation.
2. Select Your AI License Type
Your AI business can fall under different categories, including:
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AI Software Development & Machine Learning
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AI Consulting & Automation Services
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Big Data & Analytics
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AI-Driven Trading & Investment Platforms
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AI-Powered Customer Service & Chatbots
3. Submit Required Documents
You will need:
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Passport copies of shareholders.
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Business plan outlining AI solutions.
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Trade name reservation approval.
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Office lease agreement (if applicable).
4. Get Approval & Start Your Business
You will need:
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Passport copies of shareholders.
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Business plan outlining AI solutions.
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Trade name reservation approval.
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Office lease agreement (if applicable).
The UAE has a dedicated AI strategy and a Minister of AI. The UAE AI Strategy 2031 aims to integrate AI across industries, including healthcare, education, transport, energy, and government services.
Government Support for AI
The UAE offers several AI-friendly free zones that provide businesses with zero corporate tax, full repatriation of profits, and simplified business regulations. DIFC, ADGM, DIC, DMCC
Tax-Free Free Zones for AI
One of the major advantages of setting up an AI business in the UAE is the ability to own 100% of your company without requiring a local Emirati partner.
100% Foreign Ownership – No Local Sponsor Required
The UAE has positioned itself as a regional and global AI hub, making it an attractive destination for investment and innovation.
Access to Investors, AI Talent, and Global Enterprises
Why Choose the UAE for Your AI Business?
Minimum requirements to obtain an AI License in UAE
1. Shareholders & Ownership Structure
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Minimum Shareholders: 1 (Can be an individual or a corporate entity)
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Maximum Shareholders: Varies by jurisdiction, typically up to 50 in free zones
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Minimum Directors: 1 (Can be the same as the shareholder)
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Resident Director Required? - No (Directors can be based outside the UAE)
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Company Secretary: Required in some free zones (e.g., DIFC)
2. Paid-Up Capital Requirements
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Mainland: No minimum capital requirement in most cases
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Free Zones:
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DIFC: Not required
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ADGM: Not required
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Dubai Internet City (DIC) & DMCC: No mandatory paid-up capital for most AI businesses
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3. Office Space Requirement
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Mainland: Physical office required (size depends on license type)
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Free Zones:
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Many offer flexible desk solutions or virtual offices
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Some (e.g., DIFC, ADGM) require a physical presence with a dedicated office
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4. Compliance & Regulatory Approvals
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Data Protection Compliance: Required for AI businesses handling personal data (must comply with UAE Data Protection Laws & GDPR if serving EU clients)
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Cybersecurity Compliance: AI businesses must follow UAE’s National Cybersecurity Strategy
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Industry-Specific Approvals: Additional approvals may be needed for healthcare, finance, or defense AI applications
AI License in UAE
The UAE is leading the world in artificial intelligence (AI), making it the perfect place to launch and grow your AI business. Whether you're developing AI software, machine learning applications, automation tools, or data-driven solutions, obtaining an AI business license in the UAE gives you access to a thriving tech ecosystem with zero corporate tax benefits in free zones.