Financial / Regulated · Regulated activity
Financial Advisory & Regulated Finance
Activities involving investment advice, asset management, payments or other financial services.
Who is it for?
Fund managers, advisers, fintech and payment businesses.
Common business models
- Investment advisory
- Asset management
- Payments and fintech
This is a regulated activity: it typically needs a sector regulator's approval in addition to the trade licence. Do not begin operating before approvals are in place.
- Possible licence structure
- Regulated by financial regulators (e.g. in financial free zones or federal regulators). A general consultancy licence does not permit regulated financial services.
- Mainland considerations
- Depends on the activity and the federal regulator's framework.
- Free zone considerations
- Financial free zones such as DIFC and ADGM have their own regulators and regimes.
- Office requirements
- Regulators generally expect substance: real premises, qualified people and controls.
- Visa considerations
- Visa eligibility is typically linked to the company's licence, office or package type and the licensing authority's current rules.
- Banking considerations
- Banks will want a clear description of clients, suppliers, expected transaction volumes and the countries you deal with.
- Potential approvals
- Regulatory authorisation is required before carrying on the activity.
IBS services
Related glossary terms
Last reviewed: 25 September 2026
General educational content — not legal or tax advice. IBS is not affiliated with any government entity. Always confirm current requirements with the official authority.