Known for its high earning potential, this license opens doors to one of the world’s most dynamic markets. It is ideal for entrepreneurs aiming to maximize profitability in sectors like retail, trading, logistics, and more.
A commercial license legally authorizes businesses to trade goods and services in the UAE and internationally with complete adherence to the law.
UAE businesses can carry out a range of trading activities like import/export, wholesale, retail, and logistics under a single license.
Having a Dubai commercial license provides open access to worldwide markets via the world-class trade routes, infrastructure, and ports of Dubai.
For certain industries, with a UAE commercial license full foreign ownership becomes possible without needing a local sponsor.
The cost of a commercial license in Dubai is modest compared with other international business centers, facilitating profitability for SMEs and startup businesses.
Whether to set up in the mainland or a free zone, businesses with a commercial license in the UAE, have several choices for office or virtual workspace solutions.
Meeting the commercial license requirements is simple, and if guided well, businesses can get their license in a matter of days.
A commercial license in Dubai provides access to Dubai’s zero corporate tax policy (in most sectors) and no personal income tax, significantly boosting business margins.
A Dubai commercial license boosts a company’s credibility, making it easier to attract clients, partners, and investors both locally and globally.
Businesses holding commercial licenses in Dubai can sponsor visas for employees, directors, and dependents, supporting growth and scalability.
A commercial license in Dubai is necessary for companies engaging in trading operations within the UAE and abroad. Whether a new company or an expansion of an existing one, obtaining a commercial license is extremely advantageous. It provides legal authorization to sell goods and services locally and globally. Dubai commercial license is especially preferred due to the emirate’s strategic location, ease of business, and access to global markets.
One of the most important advantages of securing a UAE commercial license is the ease of licensing. With the right advice, traders can simply obtain their commercial license and commence work in a matter of days. The cost of a commercial license in Dubai varies with business activity, office requirements, and the jurisdiction chosen (free zone or mainland). However, it is a cheap way for traders to achieve long-term profitability.
Pre-application familiarity with the requirements of a commercial license is very important. A company is required to choose the trading activity very carefully, make a name reservation, apply for preliminary approvals, and take office space on lease. A local service agent or local partner might be required, also based on the industry. On completing these processes, the license is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or related free zone authority.
The commercial license in UAE supports a wide range of activities such as import/export, logistics, retail, and general trading. Dubai’s favorable tax regime, zero corporate tax (in most sectors), and 100% foreign ownership options in free zones make it an attractive destination for traders worldwide. For anyone looking to tap into the Middle East’s booming trade sector, acquiring a commercial license in Dubai, UAE is a strategic and lucrative move.
Timeline: 5 to 8 working days
Choose Your Business Activity
Start with the selection of business activity or trade category for your UAE commercial license. The list of activities should align with the approved sectors.
Select Jurisdiction
Decide on conducting business in the mainland or free zone. This impacts the cost of your commercial license in Dubai, ownership, and business freedom.
Reserve Trade Name
Submit your preferred business name to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the chosen free zone authority, distinctive name is mandatory.
Apply for Initial Approval
Get the initial approval certificate, which confirms that there are no objections to your business setup for a Dubai commercial license.
Lease Office Space
Obtain tenancy agreement. Whether it is office space or flexi-desk, this is a mandatory commercial license requirement and the one that affects the cost most directly.
Send Final Documents
Submit all the documents and application forms. Once verified, your license will be issued.
Collect Commercial License
After approval, receive your official Dubai commercial license, to legally commence operations.
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport Copies | Required for all shareholders and managers applying for the license |
| Visa Copy (if applicable) | Needed if the applicant holds a UAE residence or visit visa |
| Emirates ID Copy (if applicable) | Mandatory for UAE residents applying for a Commercial License in Dubai |
| Trade Name Reservation Certificate | Confirms business name approval as part of commercial license requirement |
| Initial Approval Certificate | No-objection from authorities to proceed with a commercial license issuance |
| Tenancy Contract / Ejari | Proof of office space lease influences the commercial license costs in Dubai |
| Memorandum of Association (MOA) | Required for mainland companies applying for a Dubai commercial license |
| Shareholder Resolution | Confirms shareholder agreement to form a business |
| Application Form | Official document to apply for the commercial license |
The cost of a commercial license in Dubai varies based on various factors, including the type of business activity, desired jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), office space requirement, number of visas, and other government clearances. The average commercial license in Dubai cost starts from AED 8,000 but can increase based on the size and scope of your operations.
Setting up in a free zone is a cheap proposition, with packages including business setup, visa allocations, and offices. Free zones enjoy full foreign ownership and tax exemption, and these are thus a popular option for start-ups and SMEs. However, an establishment on the mainland may involve extra expenses such as local service agent fees, Ejari (office leasing), and DED charges but it comes with no geographical limitations.
To obtain the correct estimate of your commercial license in the UAE, a thorough examination of your setup plan is necessary. These include trade name reservation, fulfillment of commercial license requirements, initial approvals, leasing an office, and file submission. Getting professional advice guarantees smooth procedures, strictly compliant with UAE legislations, and is customized to suit your business objectives and your budget.
Understanding the total cost of a Dubai commercial license upfront helps in better planning and faster execution of your business plan in one of the world’s most amicable business destinations.
At RadiantBiz, we provide expert support throughout the application process for a commercial license in Dubai, ensuring a smooth and successful business establishment.
Our experience, industry insights, and commitment to excellence make us your ideal partner in getting your commercial license in Dubai.
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