How to Add New Activities to Your UAE Free Zone Trade Licence 2026
Business activities change as companies grow. Adding new activities to your UAE free zone trade licence is a straightforward process. Here is the 2026 step-by-step guide.
In this guide:
Why Activities Matter in UAE Free Zones
Your UAE trade licence specifies exactly which business activities you are licensed to perform. Conducting activities NOT listed on your licence is technically illegal and can cause problems with:
- UAE CT compliance (income from unlicensed activities may not be recognized)
- UAE bank accounts (banks check activity vs income)
- Contractual obligations (contracts may reference licensed activities)
How Many Activities Can You Add?
- Most UAE free zones allow: 3-5 activities included in base package
- Additional activities: Cost AED 500-2,000 per additional activity
- IFZA: Up to 3 activities in standard package; additional activities AED 1,500 each
- DMCC: Specific activity groups; each group covered under licence
Step-by-Step: Adding Activities to IFZA Licence
- Log into IFZA customer portal (portal.ifza.ae)
- Navigate to “Licence” section > “Amend Licence”
- Select “Add Activities”
- Search for the activity you wish to add from the IFZA activity list
- Review fee for adding the activity
- Pay fee; submit amendment request
- IFZA processes in 1-3 working days
- New trade licence issued with additional activity
General Process for Other UAE Free Zones
Most UAE free zones follow a similar process:
- Submit amendment request (via zone portal or in-person)
- Pay activity amendment fee
- Receive updated trade licence
Pro Tip: Review Activities Annually
At licence renewal time, review your activities and remove any you no longer use (saves renewal fees on unused activities) and add any new activities you plan to use in the coming year.