In his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, issued Decree No. (13) of 2024 on the Unified Digital Platform for establishing companies in Dubai. The Decree forms part of Dubai’s efforts to enhance its business environment and advance 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 freezones, including the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), and other relevant entities. The integration is aimed at significantly improving the investor experience in Dubai. By offering a streamlined channel for accessing information, obtaining licenses, and availing other services related to economic activities, the platform seeks to enhance 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 enhance clarity and simplicity. It also seeks to help investors overcome obstacles in setting up or operating businesses in Dubai.
The Decree seeks to enhance 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 to establish the city as a digital economy hub.
In a move that complements the new Decree, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, issued Resolution No. (5) of 2024 of the Council, approving the key principles behind facilitating the investor’s journey in Dubai. These principles apply to the processes for all licenses, permits, and approvals related to business activities in Dubai. The Resolution is effective from the date the new Decree goes into effect.
The resolution mandates licensing and regulatory entities in Dubai to ensure a seamless journey for investors by implementing streamlined procedures. Investors can utilize the 'Invest in Dubai' digital platform for registration and unified data submission, benefiting from instant licensing and renewal processes, simplified fee payments, and standardized requirements. Decree No. (13) of 2024 assigns the Department of Economy and Tourism to oversee and enhance the 'Invest in Dubai' platform in alignment with digital transformation guidelines. All licensing and permit requests must adhere to procedures outlined in the 'Guide' issued by the Department. The Chairman of The Executive Council will issue necessary decisions for implementation, with the Decree superseding conflicting legislation upon its publication in the Official Gazette.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
