The Department of Economic Development, or DED, in Dubai has merged certain commercial activities with professional ones, including related permits, while also modifying the definition of some activities related to the maintenance and general repair of vehicles. The move is part of the DED’s efforts to enhance the ease and flexibility of doing business in Dubai. Merging the professional and commercial permits of related activities will help business owners to overcome obstacles and expand the scope of their work, eventually strengthening Dubai’s position as an attractive investment destination. The merger involves at least 13 commercial activities, mainly tailoring of women’s clothing, air conditioning, electrical wiring, mobile phones, and hardware and security equipment. For example, business owners licenced to sell computers and accessories can also engage in professional activities such as computer systems design, computer equipment repair and maintenance, and software development for education and training. “The new system for licencing industrial plants allows them to also obtain permits to sell their products to wholesalers and retailers through an ancillary outlet. Some professional licences will also be eligible to sell related products to customers inside the stores, as in the case of hairdressers who will be allowed to sell hair care products to their customers,” said Ahmed Ibrahim, director of the Business Registration in the Business Registration and Licencing sector of the DED. The DED implements various measures to continuously enhance productivity and the quality of services offered to customers, as well as facilitating business licencing. From : Khalij