Dubai launches unified digital platform for business establishment

In his capacity as ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al MaktoumVice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Decree No. (13) of 2024 on the Unified Digital Platform to establish companies in Dubai. The Decree is part of Dubai’s efforts to improve its business environment and promote economic growth.

The platform seeks to integrate various licensing processes in Dubai, including those managed by the Department of Economy and Tourism, The Authorities of special development zones and free zones, including the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC)and other relevant entities. The integration aims to significantly improve the investor experience in Dubai. By offering a simplified channel to access information, obtain licenses and avail other services related to economic activities, the platform seeks to improve the ease and convenience of investors.

The Decree, which applies to all economic activities in Dubai, also aims to regulate the issuance of licenses, permits and approvals in the emirate to improve clarity and simplicity. It also seeks to help investors overcome obstacles to establishing or operating businesses in Dubai.

The Decree seeks to improve electronic integration between licensing departments and other key entities to avoid duplication of procedures and support Dubai’s digital transformation in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 establish the city as a center of digital economy.

In a measure that complements the new Decree, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, issued Council Resolution No. (5) of 2024, approving the key principles behind facilitating the investor journey in Dubai. These principles apply to the processes of all licenses, permits and approvals related to commercial activities in Dubai. The Resolution comes into force from the date of entry into force of the new Decree.

The resolution mandates licensing and regulatory entities in Dubai to ensure a smooth journey for investors by implementing simplified procedures. Investors can use the ‘Invest in Dubai’ digital platform for unified registration and submission of data, benefiting from instant licensing and renewal processes, simplified fee payments and standardized requirements. Decree No. (13) of 2024 assign the Department of Economy and Tourism to monitor and improve the ‘Invest in Dubai’ platform aligned with the digital transformation guidelines. All applications for licenses and permits must comply with the procedures outlined in the ‘Guidance’ issued by the Department. The President of the Executive Council will issue the decisions necessary for its implementation, and the Decree will replace the conflicting legislation after its publication in the Official Gazette.

News source: Emirates News Agency