How to Set up an Entertainment and Recreation Services Business in the UAE

The UAE’s growing population has led to a higher demand for entertainment and recreational activities. This growth is fueled by both domestic factors and the influx of expatriates. The UAE’s growing economy has led to a rise in disposable income, enabling consumers to spend more on leisure and entertainment. This increase in purchasing power has fueled the demand for a variety of amusement and recreation activities. 

The UAE’s increasingly busy lifestyle has led to a growing demand for leisure and entertainment activities as a way to relax and unwind. This trend has created opportunities for businesses that offer fun and exciting experiences. The UAE’s thriving tourism industry attracts millions of visitors each year, creating a significant demand for entertainment and recreational activities. This provides opportunities for businesses to cater to both local residents and tourists. 

The UAE government has been actively promoting tourism and leisure activities, investing in infrastructure and supporting related businesses. This government support has helped to create a favourable environment for the entertainment and recreation industry.

In addition to these factors, the UAE’s strategic location and its reputation as a business-friendly environment make it an attractive destination for businesses in the entertainment and recreation sector.

If you want to set up an Entertainment and Recreation Services Business in the UAE, these are the business activities you can choose:

9329.00 – Other amusement and recreation activities n.e.c.

This category encompasses a wide range of amusement and recreation activities that do not fall under the more specific categories mentioned earlier. This may include various activities such as amusement arcades, bowling alleys, go-kart tracks, laser tag facilities, escape rooms, and other similar activities.

9329.01 – Activities of recreation parks, beaches, including renting of facilities such as bathhouses, lockers, chairs etc.

This category focuses on the operation of recreation parks and beaches, as well as the rental of facilities associated with these locations. This may include activities such as providing access to park facilities, maintaining the grounds, and renting out items such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and lockers.

9329.02 – Operation of recreational transport facilities, e.g. marinas

This category encompasses the operation of recreational transport facilities, such as marinas. Marinas provide docking and mooring facilities for boats, as well as other services related to boating and water sports.

9329.03 – Operation of ski hills

This category focuses on the operation of ski hills and ski resorts. Ski hills provide facilities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Ski resorts may also offer additional amenities such as lodging, dining, and entertainment.

9329.04 – Renting of leisure and pleasure equipment as an integral part of recreational facilities

This category encompasses the rental of leisure and pleasure equipment as part of recreational facilities. This may include renting items such as bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards, or other equipment used for recreational activities.

9329.05 – Operation of fairs and shows of a recreational nature

This category focuses on the operation of fairs and shows that are primarily for entertainment and recreation. This may include carnivals, circuses, festivals, and other similar events.

9329.06 – Operation of discotheques and dance floors

This category encompasses the operation of discotheques and dance floors, which are venues that provide a space for people to dance and listen to music. Discotheques and dance floors typically offer a variety of music genres, lighting effects, and entertainment options. They may also provide food and drink services, as well as a place for people to socialise and have fun.

9329.07 – Operation (exploitation) of coin-operated games

This category focuses on the operation of coin-operated games, which are games that require players to insert coins or tokens to play. Coin-operated games can be found in various settings, such as arcades, amusement parks, and shopping malls. Some examples of coin-operated games include video games, pinball machines, arcade shooters, racing games, and redemption games.

9329.08 – Other amusement and recreation activities (except amusement parks and theme parks) not elsewhere classified

This category encompasses a wide range of amusement and recreation activities that do not fall under the more specific categories mentioned earlier. This may include various activities such as escape rooms, laser tag facilities, bowling alleys, go-kart tracks, paintball arenas, and other similar activities. These activities often provide a fun and exciting experience for individuals of all ages.

9329.09 – Activities of producers or entrepreneurs of live events other than arts or sports events, with or without facilities

This category focuses on the activities of individuals or organisations that produce or promote live events that are not primarily artistic or sporting in nature. This may include events such as conferences, seminars, exhibitions, trade shows, conventions, and corporate events. These events can be held in various venues, such as hotels, convention centres, or outdoor spaces.

9329.93 – Electronic Games Arcade

This category encompasses the operation of electronic games arcades. Electronic games arcades are venues that offer a variety of coin-operated video games and other electronic games. These arcades can be found in various locations, such as shopping malls, entertainment complexes, and tourist destinations. Electronic games arcades typically offer a wide range of games, including classic arcade games, modern video games, and redemption games.

This class excludes fishing cruises, the provision of space and facilities for short stays by visitors in recreational parks and forests and campgrounds, the beverage serving activities of discotheques, trailer parks, campgrounds, recreational camps, hunting and fishing camps, campsites and campgrounds, the separate renting of leisure and pleasure equipment, the operation of coin-operated gambling machines, and the activities of amusement parks and theme parks.

Third-party Approval: 9329.02 needs pre-license approval from Sharjah International Marine Sports Club and 9329.03 needs pre-license approval from Sports and Youth Authority Sharjah. The other business activities do not require third-party approval.

Filing of Economic Substance Returns: This requirement does not apply to the business activities mentioned in this article.

Anti-Money Laundering Compliance: This requirement does not apply to the business activities mentioned in this article.


Did you find what you were looking for? Explore the other guides in our Activity Hub for exploring unique business ideas in Dubai and navigate the essentials of business setup with ease.

You can also calculate your business setup costs easily using our handy cost calculator and choose from our customized company setup packages to find your perfect fit.

Get your business license in the UAE today and explore a world of opportunities waiting for you.

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