How To Get A Trade License In Dubai?

What is a trade license in Dubai?
Obtaining a trade license in Dubai involves getting an official document from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or other relevant authorities. This document grants legal permission to conduct specific commercial activities within the emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

If you are new to the Emirates and need to obtain a trade license, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional business setup consultancy in UAE. They can help speed up the process and ensure you avoid any cultural or legal complications.

There are various types of trade licenses available in Dubai

Commercial License: This license is designed for businesses involved in buying and selling goods.
Professional License: Specialized service providers such as doctors, engineers, and consultants require a license to offer their services.
Industrial License: Businesses involved in manufacturing, industrial, or production activities require an industrial license.

How Do I Get a Trade License in Dubai?
Obtaining a trade license in Dubai involves several steps, and the process can vary based on whether you’re setting up your business on the mainland or in one of the free zones. A business setup specialist will provide guidance through each of these steps:

Choose a Business Activity and Legal Structure
Decide on the type of business activity you want to engage in and the legal structure for your business. There are different types of licenses available in Dubai, including commercial, industrial, and professional licenses. Choose a unique and suitable name for your business. Make sure to follow the naming guidelines set by the Department of Economic Development (DED).

Apply for Initial Approval
Submit an application for initial approval to the DED or relevant free zone authority if you are planning to set up your business in a free zone. This step verifies that your proposed business activity and name align with regulations.

Choose a Business Location
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to lease office or retail space. The location of your business can affect the type of license you obtain.

Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents, which may include passport copies of shareholders/partners, NOC from sponsors (if applicable), lease agreement for the business premises, and other relevant paperwork.

Submit Application and Documents
Submit your completed application along with the required documents to the DED or relevant free zone authority. You may need to fill out application forms and pay applicable fees. Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive an invoice for the license fees. Pay the fees promptly to proceed.

Obtain approval from other authorities
Depending on your business type, you might need approvals from other government entities, such as the Dubai Municipality, Dubai Health Authority, and more. After completing all necessary payments and obtaining the required approvals, you will receive your trade license. This license authorizes you to conduct your specified business activity.

Visa Process
If you plan to reside in Dubai or have employees, you’ll need to apply for residency visas and work permits. The number of visas you can obtain depends on your business activity and the size of your company.

Working With CIG
We specialize in providing comprehensive business consulting and services tailored to trade license’s needs. Our services include strategic planning, market analysis, process optimization, and more with an excellent track record.