Business License in Dubai

We will provide a basic overview of business trade licenses in Dubai, including the types of licenses available and their associated costs. Without further ado, let’s get started. 

Permits for companies to operate in Dubai are issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. DED has assigned distinct licenses to each company, based on the nature of their commercial activities. 

In Dubai, obtaining a commercial trade license can lead to an interesting and promising business venture. To avoid fines and disruptions, you require the necessary licenses and amendments. A number of regular and unique permits must be obtained before applying for a business license in Dubai. Having a business license to operate in Dubai offers you and your firm several benefits and a management structure. 

A business license in Dubai is a type of official document that lists the types of activities that a company is allowed to carry out within the United Arab Emirates. The Department of Economic Development is in charge of granting all licenses. 

Types of Business Trade Licenses in Dubai

The UAE's three major types of licenses are commercial, industrial, and professional. 

Commercial License

A commercial license is required for both specific and general trading activity.

Professional License

Organizations engaged in any of the various occupations or activities that necessitate the provision of services, such as healthcare, education, and other crafts, are eligible to apply for professional licenses.

Industrial License

Businesses involved in manufacturing or industrial processes are granted an industrial license.

How to Get a Business License in Dubai?

The type of business you intend to start on the mainland usually determines whether you need a business trade license in Dubai. If someone wishes to set up a business in Dubai to engage in trade activities including import-export, clothing, furniture, accessories, and electronic equipment, a general commercial license issued within Dubai is adequate. 

Define Your Legal Structure

Selecting the corporate structure and specific business ventures the company will partake in is the first step toward obtaining the trade license. Since each license in Dubai can only support a maximum of 10 activities, it is imperative to list every activity.

Select a Business Name

Choosing a suitable trade name that complies with UAE regulations and isn’t currently being used by another company is the second stage.

Choose Your Business Location

When applying for a business trade license in Dubai, site selection is essential. Once the corporate location has been selected, you need to get a tenancy agreement.

Pay Your Licensing Fees

You must complete the application and send it to DED with the necessary supporting papers to obtain the trade license. You then have to pay the fees associated with your license application.

Obtain a trade license.

You will receive the trade license after your application has been granted and the supporting documentation has been checked to make sure everything is correct.

Documents required for business license in Dubai

To commence the application process for a Dubai trade license for a company, one must submit some documents, which may include:

  • A trade license application form.
  • Copies of the passport and visa.
  • A no-objection letter from the sponsor (if applicable)
  • A tenancy contract or lease agreement.
  • A comprehensive business plan.

Benefits of Business License in Dubai 

  • Trade facilitation: Obtaining a trade license opens up a lot of options for product manufacturing and importation. You can make money by exporting your goods to other countries or by selling them locally in the Dubai markets. 
  • Tax benefits: Dubai is an excellent location for enterprises because it has no trade restrictions. Operating expenses can be deducted from tax earnings as entrepreneurs in Dubai are not subject to manufacturing or sales taxes. 
  • Easy to obtain trade license: If all the required documentation has been filed, obtaining a trade license in Dubai is not difficult. Also, you are not required to provide auditing statements once you have your license. 
  • E-trading ecosystem: The Department of Economic Development’s commerce Regulation and Licensing sector developed an e-trader license for firms that want to conduct commerce on different social media platforms, especially those from the Gulf nations. 
  • Promote both local and international trade: Businesses in Dubai with a trade license are able to sell or distribute products that are imported or exported to both local and international markets. Dealers can profit globally in this way by utilizing all business chances.  
  • Multiple visa options: In addition, the UAE offers a number of visa services to enable business owners to get various visas while retaining their physical presence in the Emirate. Having several visas also makes it possible for employers to acquire more employees. 

Business license Cost in Dubai

If you are wondering how much a small business license costs in Dubai, then the quick answer to that is a minimum of AED 8,000 to AED 10,000 (approx.).

Dubai Free Zone

AED 10,500*
  • Business Consultation
  • 0 Visa
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Business License
  • MOA and AOA
  • VAT consultation
  • Dedicated relationship manager

Rakez Free Zone

AED 10,000*
  • Business Consultation
  • 1 Visa (Lifetime)
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Business License
  • MOA and AOA
  • Flexi desk
  • Dedicated relationship manager

Dubai Mainland

AED 15,000*
  • Business Consultation
  • 1 Visa
  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Business License
  • MOA and AOA
  • Flexi desk
  • Dedicated relationship manager

Get Your Dubai Trade License Today

The legal ability to conduct any kind of commercial activity in Dubai is granted to those who possess a business license in Dubai. The UAE offers many trade license alternatives, such as commercial, industrial, professional, and more, depending on the kind of operation you plan to undertake. On the other hand, before filing a license application, it is advisable to be informed about both national and local laws and regulations.  

At Bizinvestfirm, we make sure you receive all the support you need for a seamless business setup. We’ll take care of all the necessary procedures, from setting up pre-approvals to helping you get your business license. To learn more, get in touch with Bizinvestfirm corporate specialists.