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After setting up a company in Dubai, the next most important step is obtaining a Dubai trade License. This designates the business to carry out activities all across UAE. It is the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai, who issues the trade license in Dubai. Emirates business setup services offer DED trade license service in UAE. The UAE government's initiative to encourage the growth of business setup in Dubai has surged. This gives opportunities to many new startups and entrepreneurs to set up their businesses in Dubai.
In Dubai, trading license is also known as the general trade license and the permit allowed in this can be used for the business activities like import and export of goods, out various types of commercial activities, such as the sale of goods and services in Dubai, companies registered in Dubai Free Zones, professionals serving within a specific industry.
Obtaining a trade license in Dubai gives your business official legitimacy and allows access to the thriving UAE market.
Businesses enjoy zero personal income tax and significant corporate tax exemptions in Dubai. These incentives translate to higher profits and lower operational costs.
A trade license in Dubai enables local trading, international exporting, and entry into global supply chains.
Licensed businesses are trusted by customers and partners, improving corporate reputation and partnership opportunities.
Licensed companies receive transparent guidance and incentives from the Dubai government, helping them grow and innovate.
With a Dubai trade license, entrepreneurs can sponsor employees and family members for residency visas, streamlining relocation and business expansion.
Four main licenses are issued in Dubai and the investors can apply any of them as per the nature of the activity. They are listed as follows:
The professionals offering service with specific jobs require professional licenses to carry out their activities in Dubai.
For all types of trading work being carried out in Dubai, Trade or Commercial license is required.
An industrial license is required for either any manufacturing or industrial work.
This type of business license is required for exports, trades, and imports.
Tourism license in Dubai is essential for anyone wishing to operate in the tourism sector
Getting a trade license in Dubai can be called simple if followed by the legal formalities of the respective government authorities systematically. Some of the significant steps involved to get a trading license in Dubai are as follows:
Four main licenses are issued in Dubai and the investors can apply any of them as per the nature of the activity. They are listed as follows:
01 Determine the category of activity as business / professional/commercial or industry
02 Preparation of business legal status in UAE
03 Get the necessary approvals from the respective government authorities
04 Fix a name for the company
05 To obtain a general trade license in Dubai, business premises should be leased and the correct consent from the authority needs to be obtained.
06 Finally, collect the required documents like memorandum of association
07 The business setup consultants at Emirates First in Dubai can offer you the best assistance in applying for a Dubai general trade license.
Renewing a trade license in Dubai is a mandatory annual process, and timely renewal helps avoid penalties and disruptions. Here’s a simplified pathway:
Confirm if special permissions are needed for your business activity (transport, health, etc.) before renewal.
Check that all business documents and permits are valid and up-to-date.
Settle outstanding fines with the DED to ensure smooth processing.
Renew your office lease agreement if near expiration, with Ejari attestation.
Complete the renewal form, attach all supporting paperwork, and submit to the DED.
License renewal fees generally range from AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 depending on activity and location.
Start your renewal at least one month before expiry to keep your trade license in Dubai active and penalty-free.
Yes, foreigners can easily apply for a trade license in Dubai. Options include owning 100% of a company in a Free Zone or partnering with a UAE national for certain mainland businesses. This makes Dubai one of the most welcoming places for international entrepreneurs.
Yes, an online business requires online business licences in Dubai. Whether selling goods on your website or through platforms like Amazon, you must hold a valid trade license in Dubai with permission for e-commerce activities to operate legally.
If your trade license in Dubai expires, your business must stop all activities immediately. Operating without a valid license leads to fines, penalties, business closure, and legal action, so always renew your trade license in Dubai on time.
Yes, you can change or add activities after obtaining a trade license in Dubai. You must apply for an amendment with the Department of Economic Development and submit new approvals or documentation based on the updated business activities.
An Abu Dhabi trade license is an official government-issued permit that allows individuals and companies to legally conduct business activities within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), this license is mandatory for all types of commercial, industrial, and professional activities. Whether starting a small consultancy, a trading company, or an industrial manufacturing business, obtaining the appropriate Abu Dhabi trade license is crucial to comply with local laws and operate without legal obstacles. The license is typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Depending on the specific business activity, applicants may choose from professional, commercial, industrial, agricultural, or tourism licenses. Without a valid Abu Dhabi trade license, conducting business activities in the Emirate is considered illegal and subject to penalties. Hence, entrepreneurs and investors must prioritize obtaining this license when setting up a company in Abu Dhabi.
Acquiring an Abu Dhabi trade license involves a structured process designed to ensure that businesses meet all legal requirements before starting operations. The process begins with determining the business category (professional, commercial, or industrial), followed by selecting up to ten approved business activities under that category. Applicants must choose a unique trade name adhering to regulations and submit it for initial approval. Securing a physical office space or lease agreement within Abu Dhabi is usually mandatory. Key documents required include passport copies and residency visas of shareholders, the Memorandum of Association (MOA) for LLCs, the trade name reservation certificate, a tenancy contract, and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if applicable. Once all paperwork is submitted and initial payments made, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development reviews the application before issuing the trade license. Business owners are advised to seek expert consultancy to navigate this process smoothly and ensure full compliance with Abu Dhabi’s evolving licensing regulations.
If you are looking for dedicated and professional assistance in setting up a business in UAE, get in touch with us. Our expert consultants can get your business registered and help you further for a smooth operation.
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