Common Business Activities Covered Under a Technical Services License in Dubai

A Technical Services License in Dubai is one of the most sought-after licenses for skilled professionals and small-to-medium-sized businesses offering maintenance, repair, and technical services. This license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland businesses or by various free zones in the UAE.

Understanding the specific activities allowed under this license helps ensure that your business operates legally and efficiently from day one. In this blog, we will look at the most common business activities that fall under a technical services license and how setup consultants can help you choose the right ones.

Understanding the Technical Services License in Dubai

A Technical Services License in Dubai is a professional license that permits individuals and companies to offer specialized non-commercial services. This license suits activities that involve manual skills, technical expertise, or equipment-based services.

The license allows 100% foreign ownership in free zones and up to 49% in mainland companies (unless partnered with a local UAE national sponsor, or under current foreign investment reforms).

This license does not permit retail, trading, or manufacturing activities. Its focus is strictly on technical and maintenance-related services.

Why Entrepreneurs Choose a Technical Services License

The technical services license offers several benefits:

• Low setup costs

• High demand across residential and commercial sectors

• Ability to sponsor employees

• Flexibility to operate across Dubai and other Emirates (for mainland licenses)

• Strong demand from growing real estate and construction sectors

Most importantly, the license is relatively quick to obtain when all documents are in order.

Key Business Activities Covered Under a Technical Services License in Dubai

Let’s look at some of the most commonly approved and practiced activities under this license.

1. Air Conditioning, Ventilation, and Air Filtration System Installation & Maintenance

This includes:

• Installing and servicing HVAC units

• Duct cleaning

• Filter replacement

• General cooling system inspections and repairs

With Dubai's climate, this is one of the most profitable and stable services under the technical license.

2. Plumbing and Sanitary Contracting

This covers:

• Pipe installation

• Leak detection and repairs

• Water tank cleaning

• Bathroom and kitchen fixture servicing

These services are required in both residential towers and commercial buildings throughout Dubai.

3. Electromechanical Equipment Installation and Maintenance

Companies offering this service handle:

• Motor rewinding

• Generator installation and maintenance

• Electrical panels and switchgear servicing

• Lift and escalator maintenance (depending on scope)

This activity is regulated, and some sub-categories may need additional approvals.

4. Floor and Wall Tiling Works

Specialists under this activity perform:

• Ceramic, porcelain, and marble tile installations

• Flooring repairs

• Mosaic and decorative stonework

This service is often subcontracted by construction firms and real estate developers.

5. Painting Contracting

Painting companies under the technical services license provide:

• Interior and exterior painting

• Decorative wall finishes

• Industrial coatings

• Maintenance painting for buildings and villas

It’s a high-demand service due to constant real estate development in Dubai.

6. False Ceiling and Light Partitions Installation

Services under this category include:

• Gypsum partitioning

• Drop ceiling installation

• Drywall systems

• Acoustic ceilings and decorative panels

Interior fit-out companies often operate under this activity.

7. Electrical Fittings and Fixtures Services

Electricians with this license can legally perform:

• Light fixture installation

• Power socket repairs

• Circuit breaker replacements

• Electrical wiring for homes and offices

This is essential for renovation and fit-out projects across Dubai.

8. Carpentry and Wood Flooring Work

This covers:

• Door and window frame installation

• Wooden flooring and skirting

• Cupboard and shelving installation

• Furniture fittings (non-manufacturing)

Woodwork services are often bundled with interior contracting services.

9. Insulation Contracting

Under this license, you can provide:

• Thermal insulation

• Soundproofing

• Roof and wall insulation

• Industrial equipment insulation

With green building requirements becoming stricter, demand is growing.

10. Engraving and Ornamentation Works

This includes:

• Laser engraving on glass, metal, or stone

• Decorative art engraving

• Signboard etching

• Custom branding for interiors

Often used in hotel and retail design projects.

11. Floor and Carpentry Maintenance Works

Companies offering general maintenance services are allowed to provide:

• Regular checks and repair for wooden fittings

• Floor polishing and protection

• Restorative services for aging installations

It’s a valuable service for property management firms.

12. Plaster and Cladding Works

You can provide:

• Wall plastering

• Decorative finishes

• Stone and ceramic cladding

• Waterproof exterior coatings

These are commonly needed during villa construction or renovation.

13. Partitions and Ceiling Contracting

While similar to light partition installation, this is more structural and includes:

• Load-bearing partitions

• Multi-material ceiling systems

• Drywall and block wall construction

Builders often subcontract this work from technical services companies.

Additional Activities That May Require Approvals

While most activities under a Technical Services License in Dubai are approved directly by the DED or relevant Free Zone authority, some may require approvals from:

• Dubai Municipality (for sanitation, plumbing, and HVAC work)

• Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for electrical activities

• Civil Defence (for fire and safety system-related work)

Business setup consultants ensure that you apply for the correct activity and handle all relevant approvals smoothly.

Activities Not Allowed Under the Technical Services License

To avoid penalties, it is important to note what is not permitted under this license:

• Buying or selling goods (requires commercial license)

• Import-export activities

• Manufacturing of goods

• Real estate or brokerage

• Digital/IT consulting or professional services (requires professional license)

Always ensure that your service scope matches your approved activity.

How Business Setup Consultants in Dubai Help You Choose the Right Activities

Working with Business Setup Consultants in Dubai ensures:

• Correct classification of services

• Avoiding legal conflicts or penalties

• Fast license approval

• Coordination with relevant departments

• Recommendations based on your business goals

They analyze your target market, operations model, and future plans to suggest the most effective activity list for your technical services license.

Documents Required to Obtain a Technical Services License in Dubai

While requirements may vary by jurisdiction, typical documents include:

• Passport copies of shareholders

• Emirates ID (for UAE residents)

• Trade name reservation

• Initial approval certificate

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Tenancy contract/Ejari for physical office

• Professional qualifications (if required)

• NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)

Costs Involved in a Technical Services License in Dubai

License costs depend on the number of activities, jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), and number of visas required. Approximate costs:

• Mainland license: AED 10,000 – AED 18,000

• Free zone license: AED 12,000 – AED 20,000 (can vary with flexi-desk option)

• Additional costs: Ejari, visa fees, bank account, approvals if needed

Business Setup Services in Dubai usually offer complete packages, making it easier to budget for all expenses.

Start Right with the Right Activities

A Technical Services License in Dubai is an excellent entry point for skilled professionals and businesses in the maintenance and contracting industry. However, success starts with selecting the right business activities and ensuring they align with your actual service offering.

With the support of experienced Business Setup Consultants in Dubai, you avoid mistakes that could cost you time, money, and business credibility. They help you navigate legal requirements, clarify activity scopes, and ensure that your license matches your business operations perfectly.

Tailor Your License to What You Actually Do

Choosing the right business activities is not just about ticking boxes. It defines what your company can legally offer, impacts your reputation, and determines how fast you grow. Let professional Business Setup Services in Dubai guide you from start to finish—ensuring your technical services license is built on accuracy, compliance, and future readiness.