Setting up a business in Dubai means working closely with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)—formerly known as the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). Whether you're applying for a license, changing business activity, or renewing your registration, coordination with this department is a must.

For most new business owners, the procedures, document requirements, and approvals can feel complex. That’s where professional support makes a difference. Business Setup Consultants in Dubai are trained to handle these steps efficiently. They understand how to manage everything from trade name registration to license issuance—saving you time, avoiding delays, and helping you stay compliant.

This blog explains how Business Setup Services in Dubai assist with every stage of interaction with the Economic Department and why their support is valuable, especially for entrepreneurs unfamiliar with the local system.

Understanding the Role of the Economic Department

Before diving into how consultants help, let’s understand what the Economic Department does.

Functions of the Economic Department in Dubai

• Approves trade names and business activities

• Issues and renews trade licenses

• Registers business ownership structures

• Handles approvals for legal documents such as MOAs (Memorandum of Association)

• Grants permits for certain regulated sectors

• Coordinates with other government departments when needed (Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Economy, etc.)

To set up or manage a business, you'll need to engage with the DET at multiple stages. Doing it without guidance can lead to mistakes or delays.

Where Business Setup Consultants Come In

1. Helping You Choose the Right Business Activity Code

Every business in Dubai must select an approved activity code from the DET’s list. These codes determine:

• Your legal obligations

• Licensing fees

• Required permits from other departments

Choosing the wrong activity may result in needing extra approvals or even rejection.

Business Setup Consultants in Dubai help you match your services or products with the correct codes and verify if multiple activities can be combined under one license.

2. Trade Name Approval Process

The name you choose for your business must follow DET rules. For example:

• It should not include offensive terms

• Certain words (like "international" or "global") require extra fees or conditions

• The name must reflect the nature of your business in some cases

Business Setup Services in Dubai check name availability, ensure compliance with DET naming guidelines, and submit the trade name reservation application on your behalf.

3. Submitting the Initial Approval Request

Before applying for a license, you must get initial approval from DET. This confirms that:

• Your business type is allowed in Dubai

• There are no objections to your business plan

• You’re eligible to proceed with registration

Consultants prepare the application, verify documents (such as passports, Emirates ID, NOC if required), and ensure no details are missed—reducing the chances of rejection.

4. Drafting and Notarizing MOA or LSA Agreements

Depending on the type of business, you may need:

• A Memorandum of Association (MOA) — for LLCs

• A Local Service Agent (LSA) Agreement — for professional licenses

Both documents must be drafted carefully and notarized by a UAE legal authority. A mistake in the document can delay your entire setup.

Business Setup Services in Dubai coordinate with legal professionals, draft your MOA or LSA according to DET guidelines, and book appointments for notarization.

5. Coordinating Office Space Approvals and Ejari

To get your final license from DET, you must submit:

• A tenancy contract (Ejari)

• Location map

• Approvals from other departments (if applicable)

Consultants help you:

• Choose DET-approved office spaces or Flexi desks

• Ensure the tenancy contract meets minimum area requirements

• Submit the Ejari documentation without errors

6. Final License Issuance

Once all documents are in order, DET issues your trade license. Business Setup Consultants in Dubai track this final step and collect the license on your behalf.

They can also ensure you receive your:

• Chamber of Commerce certificate

• Company establishment card

• VAT registration support (if needed)

Managing Post-Setup DET Interactions

Your relationship with DET doesn’t end once you get your license. Annual renewals, amendments, and compliance checks are all part of running a business in Dubai.

Here’s how Business Setup Services in Dubai support you after setup:

1. License Renewal

Business licenses in Dubai must be renewed annually. DET requires:

• Updated Ejari

• Visa updates (if applicable)

• Renewed MOA (if changes occurred)

Consultants manage your reminders, paperwork, and renewals, ensuring you don’t miss deadlines or face penalties.

2. Adding or Removing Business Activities

Want to offer a new service? You’ll need to add the related activity code to your license and get DET approval.

Setup consultants:

• Check compatibility of new activities

• Prepare amendment requests

• Coordinate with DET and other authorities if additional approvals are needed

3. Legal Amendments

Sometimes, you may need to change:

• Company name

• Shareholding structure

• Trade license type

• Business location

All of these changes require DET’s approval and sometimes external approvals too. Consultants prepare the legal documents, submit change requests, and monitor approval timelines.

4. Handling Government Inspections and Fines

If DET or Dubai Municipality conducts an inspection and finds a compliance issue, your business may be fined or even suspended.

Business Setup Consultants in Dubai help you respond properly by:

• Reviewing the violation

• Preparing the necessary documents for appeal

• Guiding on how to resolve the issue

• Ensuring you don’t repeat the same error in the future

Benefits of Using a Consultant for DET Coordination

Real-Life Example: DET Coordination Made Easy

Case Study: John, an entrepreneur from the UK, wanted to launch a tech consultancy in Dubai.

Challenges:

• Confused about activity codes

• Couldn’t find accurate information about office space rules

• Struggled to understand visa eligibility and bank account setup

With the help of Business Setup Services in Dubai, John received:

• Support with selecting the right activity and license

• Assistance in getting trade name approval within 24 hours

• Complete document preparation for DET

• Final trade license in hand within 10 business days

DET Coordination Made Simple with Expert Help

Working with the Economic Department is necessary for starting and managing any business in Dubai. But the process is full of small steps, legal documents, and official approvals that require local knowledge and experience.

Trying to manage DET coordination on your own can lead to mistakes, delays, or even license rejection. By partnering with trusted Business Setup Consultants in Dubai, you ensure your documents are handled correctly, your application moves faster, and your business stays compliant with government regulations.

Business Setup Services in Dubai aren’t just about launching a company—they’re about helping you avoid risk, save time, and focus on building your business.

If you're planning to start or manage a business in Dubai, consider using professionals who understand the Economic Department inside out. Their support can make all the difference.