The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has temporarily suspended the issuance of new licenses for one-person companies (freelance businesses) as part of a review of procedures and regulations governing this type of business activity.
The suspension applies only to new license applications submitted by individuals wishing to establish one-person companies. Existing licenses that have already been issued will continue to operate normally, with no changes to their legal or operational status.
Informed sources said the ministry is currently reviewing and reorganizing the regulatory framework for these licenses in cooperation with the Public Authority for Civil Information. The move aims to ensure better coordination between licensing procedures, registered addresses, and business headquarters, while enhancing electronic connectivity between government entities.
The sources explained that the planned amendments are intended to further regulate the business environment and improve the licensing process, especially as one-person companies cover a wide range of economic activities.
The permitted activities include around 122 fields across more than 15 economic sectors, including professional, scientific, technical and consulting services, information technology, real estate, trade, tourism, education and training, design and arts, sports and entertainment, environmental services, agriculture, and other freelance activities that do not require a traditional business headquarters.
According to Ministry of Commerce data, 6,586 one-person company licenses were issued during the first five months of 2026. The figures included 1,085 licenses in January, 1,557 in February, 1,144 in March, 1,512 in April, and 1,288 in May.
The number of licenses issued in May declined by 15 percent compared with April, as the ministry continues its efforts to review and develop the regulatory framework for freelance businesses in line with market needs.
