Contracting Services

Contracting Services refers to the provision of specialised services on a contractual basis. It involves entering into formal agreements or contracts with clients to perform specific tasks or projects for a defined period. Contractors, who possess specialised expertise, work independently and are responsible for delivering the agreed-upon results within set parameters. This flexible arrangement benefits clients by providing access to specialised skills when needed, while contractors have the freedom to choose projects and gain diverse experiences. 

Here are some of the business activities that fall under Contracting Services. Though UAE permits business activities 4100.00, 4210.00, 4220.00, 4290.00, 4310.00, 4321.00, 4322.00, 4329.00, 4330.00, 4390.00, 4540.97, these are not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone.

Construction of Buildings (4100.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This involves the process of creating complete residential or non-residential structures either for sale by the constructor or on a fee or contract basis. This activity includes the construction of various types of buildings such as single-family houses, multi-family buildings (including high-rise structures), industrial facilities, hospitals, schools, offices, hotels, shopping malls, airports, sports facilities, parking garages (including underground ones), warehouses, and religious buildings. The construction process may involve outsourcing certain parts or even the entire process. However, if only specialised segments of the construction process are carried out, it is classified in a different division.

This activity falls under “Contracting Services” because it entails entering into contracts or agreements with clients to provide specialised construction services. Contractors undertake the responsibility of constructing complete residential or non-residential buildings according to the client’s specifications. This can be on their own account for sale or through contractual arrangements. The contractors may outsource certain aspects of the construction process if necessary. They are responsible for managing the project, ensuring it is completed within the agreed-upon budget, timeline, and quality standards. This activity includes Building Contracting (4100.94), Steel Constructions Contracting (4100.95), Prefabricated Buildings Contracting (4100.96), Prefabricated Concrete Houses Contracting (4100.97), Prestressed Concrete Contracting (4100.98), and Meteorology Projects Contracting (4100.99).

It’s important to note that this activity excludes certain aspects such as the erection of complete prefabricated constructions from self-manufactured parts not made of concrete, construction of industrial facilities, architectural and engineering activities, and project management activities related to construction.

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4100.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4100.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Construction of Roads and Railways (4210.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This involves the process of building various transportation infrastructure, including roads, highways, bridges, tunnels, railways, subways, and airfield runways. This activity includes the construction of motorways, streets, roads, and other vehicular and pedestrian ways. It also encompasses surface work such as asphalt paving, road painting, installation of crash barriers, traffic signs, and similar road markings. Additionally, the construction of bridges, including those for elevated highways, tunnels, railways, and subways, is part of this activity.

Construction of Roads and Railways falls under “Contracting Services” because it typically requires the engagement of specialised contractors to undertake these construction projects. The contractors are responsible for executing the construction work according to the specified plans, designs, and technical requirements.  This activity includes Road Contracting (4210.94), Tunnels Contracting (4210.95), Railways Contracting (4210.96), Road Marking Contracting (4210.98), and Bridges & Dams Contracting (4210.99).

It’s important to note that the “Construction of Roads and Railways” activity excludes certain aspects such as the installation of street lighting and electrical signals, architectural and engineering activities, and project management activities related to civil engineering works. 

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality) / Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) / Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4210.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4210.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Construction of Utility Projects (4220.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This involves the construction of infrastructure related to utility systems. This includes the construction of distribution lines, buildings, and structures that are integral to these systems. It encompasses various civil engineering constructions such as long-distance pipelines, communication and power lines, urban pipelines, water mains, irrigation systems, reservoirs, sewer systems, sewage disposal plants, pumping stations, power plants, and water well drilling. This activity includes Electric Power Lines Contracting (4220.89), Power Plants Contracting (4220.90), Wireless Communication Towers Contracting (4220.91), Communication Lines Contracting (4220.92), Desalination Plants Contracting (4220.93), Water Pipelines & Station Contracting (4220.94), Water Well Drilling Contracting (4220.96), Oil & Natural Gas Pipelines Contracting (4220.97), and District Cooling Contracting (4220.98).

 However, it excludes project management activities related to civil engineering works.

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits and Waste Departments (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4220.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4220.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Construction of Other Civil Engineering Projects (4290.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This involves the construction of a diverse range of civil engineering projects that do not fall under specific categories like roads, railways, utility projects, or buildings. It includes the construction of industrial facilities such as refineries and chemical plants, as well as waterways, harbour and river works, pleasure ports, dams, and outdoor sports facilities. It also encompasses land subdivisions with improvements like adding roads and utility infrastructure. This activity falls under “Contracting Services” as specialised contractors are engaged to undertake these complex projects. They possess the expertise and equipment necessary for executing civil engineering works. It includes Marina Construction Contracting (4290.93), Ports & Marine Construction Contracting (4290.94), Canal Dredging Contracting (4290.95), Service Lines Coring & Ditching Contracting (4290.96), Sport Fields & Halls Contracting (4290.97), and Coastal Reclamation Contracting (4290.98).

However, project management activities related to civil engineering works are excluded from this classification. 

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits and Marine and Coastal Environment Departments (Dubai Municipality) / Maritime / Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) / Dubai Land Department.

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4290.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4290.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Demolition and site preparation (4310.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This involves preparing a site for future construction by removing existing structures and clearing the area. This activity falls under “Contracting Services” as specialised contractors are engaged to perform these tasks. They possess the necessary skills and equipment for safe and efficient demolition, debris removal, and site levelling. Categorising it as a contracting service recognizes the need for specialised expertise in preparing the site effectively, allowing clients to rely on professionals for a solid foundation before commencing construction.

• • Third-party Approval (PRE): Before obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Dubai Police

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits and Marine and Coastal Environment Departments (Dubai Municipality) / Drainage Department (Dubai Municipality) / Waste Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4310.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4310.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Electrical installation (4321.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This refers to the process of installing electrical systems in buildings and civil engineering structures. It includes the installation of various components such as electrical wiring, telecommunications wiring, lighting systems, fire alarms, burglar alarm systems, and street lighting, among others. Contractors in this field are engaged through contracts by clients such as property owners, developers, or construction companies to provide the necessary expertise and experience for successful electrical installations. This includes Electrical Fitting Contracting (4321.90), and Specialized Piping & Related Fittings Contracting (4321.97).

This business activity excludes the construction of communication and power transmission lines, as well as the monitoring or remote monitoring of electronic security alarm systems and their maintenance.

• • Third-party Approval (PRE): Before obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from Dubai Civil Defense.

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4321.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4321.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Plumbing, heat and air-conditioning installation (4322.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This refers to the professional installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning systems in buildings and construction projects. This includes installing heating systems, furnaces, plumbing equipment, ventilation, air-conditioning equipment, and ducts, among others. It includes Plumbing & Sanitary Contracting (4322.92), Central Gas Distribution Networks Contracting (4322.96), and Electromechanical Works Contracting (4322.99).

Categorised under “Contracting Services,” this activity involves specialised contractors who possess the necessary expertise and skills for these installations. By outsourcing this work to contractors, clients can ensure the reliable and efficient operation of their plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning systems. 

• • Third-party Approval (PRE): Before obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from Dubai Civil Defense.

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4322.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4322.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Other construction installation (4329.00)Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This refers to the installation, maintenance, and repair of equipment in buildings and civil engineering structures, excluding electrical, plumbing, heating and air-conditioning systems, or industrial machinery. This includes the installation of elevators, escalators, automated and revolving doors, lightning conductors, vacuum cleaning systems, and thermal, sound, or vibration insulation. This activity includes Lifts & Escalators Contracting (4329.93).

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality).
  • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4329.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4329.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Building Completion and Finishing (4330.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This focuses on the final stages of construction projects, encompassing both interior and exterior aspects of buildings. This includes tasks such as plastering, installation of doors and windows, fitted kitchens, furniture, floorings, painting, glass installation, and cleaning of new buildings. It includes Painting Contracting (4330.83), Carpentry & Flooring Contracting (4330.84), Exterior Building Cladding Contracting (4330.94), and Technical Services Contracting (4330.98).

This activity excludes activities like road painting, installation of automated doors, general interior cleaning, interior decoration design, and assembly of self-standing furniture.

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4330.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4330.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Other Specialized Construction Activities (4390.00) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This refers to construction activities that specialise in a particular aspect common to different kinds of structures, requiring specialised skills or equipment. This activity includes various specialised tasks such as foundation construction, damp proofing and waterproofing works, de-humidification of buildings, shaft sinking, erection of non-self-manufactured steel elements, steel bending, bricklaying, stone setting, roof covering for residential buildings, scaffolding and work platform erecting and dismantling (excluding renting), chimney and industrial oven erection, and work with specialist access requirements. Additionally, this activity includes subsurface work, construction of outdoor swimming pools, steam cleaning, sandblasting, and similar activities for building exteriors, as well as the renting of cranes with operators. It includes Piling & Foundation Contracting (4390.88), Insulation Contracting (4390.89), Metal Parts Fixtures Contracting (4390.90), Scaffolding Contracting (4390.92), and Fencing & Barbed Wire Contracting (4390.95).

However, it’s important to note that this activity excludes the renting of construction machinery and equipment without operators.

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from the respective authority, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Building Control and Building Permits Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4390.00 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4390.00 is exempt from this requirement.

Turnkey Projects Contracting (4540.97) Not available for selection in Meydan Free Zone: This refers to a comprehensive approach where a contractor takes full responsibility for the entire project, delivering a ready-to-use facility to the client. This falls under “Contracting Services” as the contractor manages all aspects of the project, from design to construction and commissioning. They coordinate subcontractors, procure materials, and handle project execution. By offering turnkey solutions, clients benefit from a streamlined process and a single point of contact. This approach is applicable to various projects, including residential and commercial buildings, infrastructure, and complex systems. 

• • Third-party Approval: No third-party approvals are required for this business activity.

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 4540.97 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 4540.97 is exempt from this requirement.

Food service contractors (e.g. for transportation companies) (5629.01): This refers to companies that offer food-related services to transportation companies and other organisations on a contractual basis. These contractors specialise in providing food preparation, catering, and related services tailored to the specific needs of their clients in the transportation industry. By operating under contract agreements, they ensure the provision of meals and food services as per the terms outlined in the agreement. This business activity falls under “Contracting Services” because food service contractors enter into contractual arrangements to deliver their expertise and resources, relieving transportation companies from managing their own food establishments. 

• • Third-party Approval (POST): After obtaining a license from Meydan Free Zone, it’s necessary to obtain third-party approval from the Food Safety Department (Dubai Municipality).

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 5629.01 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 5629.01 is exempt from this requirement.

Artistic Production Contracting Services (5913.98): This refers to companies or individuals that provide contractual services for artistic projects, such as theatre performances, concerts, exhibitions, and film productions. These contractors specialise in coordinating and managing various aspects of the production process, including hiring artists, securing venues, handling logistics, and overseeing the overall execution. By operating on a contractual basis, they offer their expertise and resources to clients, allowing them to outsource the complex tasks involved in organising and managing artistic events. 

• • Third-party Approval: No third-party approvals are required for this business activity.

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 5913.98 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 5913.98 is exempt from this requirement.

Information search services on a contract or fee basis (6399.02): This refers to businesses that provide information retrieval and research services to clients on a contractual or fee basis. These companies undertake specialised searches and gather relevant information based on the specific requirements of their clients. This may involve conducting research, collecting data from various sources, and presenting the findings in a usable format. These services can include telephone-based information services, news clipping services, and other similar activities.

• • Third-party Approval: No third-party approvals are required for this business activity.

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 6399.02 needs to fulfil this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 6399.02 is exempt from this requirement.

Artistic Talent Contracting (9000.86): This refers to a business activity that involves contracting or hiring artistic talents, such as performers, musicians, actors, or other creative professionals, for various events or projects. These businesses serve as intermediaries between clients and artistic talent, connecting the two parties and facilitating contractual agreements. They handle negotiations, contracts, scheduling, and other logistics related to engaging artistic talent for specific engagements. 

• • Third-party Approval: No third-party approvals are required for this business activity.

• • Filing of Economic Substance Return: Business activity 9000.86 is exempt from this requirement.

• • Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: Business activity 9000.86 is exempt from this requirement.