Dubai is one of the most attractive global cities for investors and business seekers, as it provides diverse opportunities and a fruitful commercial environment for establishing companies and commercial projects. One of the most important steps that investors must take to enter this thriving market is to obtain an officially recognized business license in Dubai. When looking at how to obtain a business license in Dubai, there are several important aspects that must be taken into consideration. First and foremost, investors must understand the different types of business licenses available, such as industrial, commercial and professional licenses, and choose the type that suits their business activity.

Besides, investors must carefully study the requirements of the license they wish to obtain, such as the required documents, legal conditions, and administrative procedures. They should also be aware of the fees and costs related to obtaining the license, which can vary depending on the type of license and the company’s activity.

It is worth noting that the process of obtaining a commercial license in Dubaivaries slightly in terms of procedures and requirements depending on the type of company and its commercial activity. Therefore, it is always advisable to turn to specialized consultants or reliable local consulting companies to obtain the necessary assistance and guidance during this process.

Through this article, we will generally explore how to obtain a business license in Dubai without going into the finer details of procedures and prices, focusing on the main points that investors should pay attention to to achieve the success of their business projects in this vital economic destination.

How to obtain a commercial license in Dubai

Documents required to obtain a trade license in Dubai

The documents required to obtain a business license in Dubai vary according to the type of business activity and the type of company to be established. But in general, the following documents may be required:

1. A copy of the passport or ID card of the owner/founders.
2. A copy of the lease or ownership contract for the office in which the company will be established.
3. A copy of the experience certificate and academic qualifications required for the business activity (if required).
4. An authorization letter if another person is appointed to manage the company.
5. A letter of support from the local bank confirming the founders’ ability to finance the company.
6. A list of business activities that the founders wish to engage in.
7. Application form for obtaining a commercial license.

There may be different additional requirements between emirates and between different business activities. It is recommended to check the specific requirements for each emirate and for each type of company and commercial activity before starting the process of obtaining a commercial license.

Requirements for issuing a commercial license in Dubai

The requirements for issuing a commercial license in Dubai vary based on the type of company and its activity, but there are several general requirements that may include:

• Legal type of company: You must select the appropriate company type, such as a sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or joint stock company.
• Trade name: A unique trade name must be chosen that does not violate local laws and applicable standards.
• Commercial activity: The company’s proposed commercial activity must be determined and its compliance with local laws and legislation must be ensured.
• Physical space: A place to conduct business must be provided, whether an office or a shop, while adhering to health and safety standards.
• Ownership: The shareholders or owners of the company must be identified, whether individuals or companies.
• Legal services: You may need legal services to prepare the necessary documents and submit them to the relevant authorities.
• Fees and Taxes: You must pay the prescribed fees to obtain the license and comply with the required local taxes.
• Necessary documents: Required documents include the passport or ID card of the shareholders, ownership or lease documents for the physical location, and local and foreign contracts if there are.

These are just general requirements, and exact details and requirements may vary depending on the type of company and business activity. It is always advisable to check the exact requirements from the relevant authorities in Dubai before starting the trade license issuance process.

Trade license fees in Dubai

Fees related to obtaining a business license in Dubai vary based on several factors, such as the type of company, business activity, and specific legal requirements. Here is general information about fees, although this information may change, so it is always best to check with the relevant authorities:

• Company establishment fees: These fees include the government fees required to establish the company and obtain a commercial license. These fees may vary based on the type of company and the capital invested.
• Legal services fees: If you need legal assistance to prepare the necessary documents and submit them to the relevant authorities, you may pay additional fees for legal services.
• Legal consultation fees: There may be fees for legal consultations related to the business license issuance process and other legal obligations.
• Additional license fees: If you are planning specific activities that require additional licenses, such as building or health licenses, there may be additional fees for this.
• Annual Renewal Fee: After obtaining the license, there will be an annual fee to renew the business license and continue doing business legally.

Please note that this information is for general informational purposes, and actual fees may vary depending on individual circumstances and the exact details of the process of obtaining a business license in Dubai. It is always advisable to check with the relevant authorities for accurate and up-to-date information about the fees.

The importance of a trade license in Dubai 

A business license in Dubai is of great importance in building and operating a business legally and legitimately. A business license is an essential tool that ensures the legitimacy of a business and its compliance with local laws and legislation, which protects owners and enhances credibility and confidence in their business. In addition, a business license provides a clear legal framework for the specific responsibilities and rights of a company, and facilitates access to government services and financial and operational facilities available to licensed companies. A trade license is an integral part of the process of building the success of companies in Dubai and enabling them to participate effectively in the emirate’s dynamic commercial market. A trade license in Dubai is of great importance for several reasons:

1. Business Legality: A business license makes a business legal and legitimate in Dubai, ensuring compliance with local laws and legislation and protecting owners from legal problems.
2. Trust and credibility: A commercial license enhances trust and credibility in your business in front of customers, partners and suppliers, which contributes to attracting more business opportunities and cooperation.
3. Access to government services: A trade license provides access to government support services and facilities available to licensed companies in Dubai, such as loans and development programmes.
4. Facilitating commercial operations: A commercial license facilitates buying and selling procedures and commercial contracts, and contributes to organizing the company’s internal operations.
5. Specific Responsibility: A business license provides a legal framework for the specific responsibilities and rights of a company, facilitating effective business management.
6. Legal presence: Obtaining a commercial license allows companies to have a legal presence in the local market and participate in commercial activities with complete legitimacy and transparency.

Overall, a business license in Dubai is an essential part of the process of building and operating a successful business, as it provides legal security and the right environment to grow and prosper in Dubai’s diverse and dynamic business market.

Commercial licenses in Dubai

Types of business licenses in Dubai

Here are the types of business licenses available in Dubai, with a table explaining these types and an introductory paragraph:

Business licenses in Dubai are an essential tool for individuals and companies to start and operate businesses legally and legitimately. Types of business licenses vary based on the company structure and type of proposed business activity.

Electronic business licenses in Dubai

In Dubai, the government provides electronic business licensing services to facilitate the process of issuing licenses and speed up business operations. The electronic system for commercial licenses is an essential part of Dubai’s efforts to enhance the business environment and attract more investments and commercial projects. These electronic commercial licenses allow individuals and companies to obtain licenses faster and more effectively, and the types of electronic licenses vary according to the business activity and type of company. Electronic business licenses in Dubai promote economic development and enhance its position as one of the most prominent global centers for business and investment.

License to establish a company in Dubai

To obtain a license to establish a company in Dubai , you must pay attention to several important steps that focus on the company establishment process in Dubai:

• Choosing the company type: The appropriate company type for the planned business activity must be selected, such as limited company, partnership or sole proprietorship.
• Choosing a trade name: You must choose a distinctive and meaningful trade name that complies with the trade name laws in Dubai, and ensure that it is not similar to the names of other companies.
• Determine the physical location: You must determine the place where the company’s operations will be held, whether it is an office or a commercial store, and ensure the availability of the necessary documents for the location.
• Preparing the necessary documents: The incorporation documents, certificates and legal documents required by the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Economic Development in Dubai, must be prepared.
• Submitting the application: After preparing the documents, you must submit the application to the competent authorities in Dubai, pay the required fees, and wait for the application to be reviewed and approved.
• Obtaining a license: After the application is approved, a license will be obtained to establish the company in Dubai, and then business can begin.

It is always advisable to cooperate with Itqan consultants with experience in company establishment processes in Dubai, to ensure that the correct procedures are followed and to provide support and professional advice during this process.

The cost of establishing a company in Dubai

The cost of establishing a company in Dubai varies greatly depending on several factors such as the type of company, the size of the planned business, and the consulting services you may need. Here are some items that affect the cost:

• Company type: The cost of establishing limited companies differs from sole proprietorships or partnerships, as limited companies are more expensive to establish due to additional legal and administrative procedures.
• Consulting services: You may need legal or business advice to help you with the company formation process, and this can add an additional cost.
• Registration fees: There are fees for registering the company and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, and these fees vary according to the type of company and its activity.
• Reception desks and additional services: If you require a reception desk or additional administrative services, these services may come at a cost.

It is important to consult relevant consultancies for an accurate cost estimate, as they can provide customized estimates based on your specific needs and the specific circumstances of setting up a company in Dubai.

Get help submitting an application for a commercial license

You can obtain assistance in submitting an application for a commercial license in Dubai through many consulting services and administrative services companies specialized in this field.

These services can provide advice and assistance in preparing the required documents and implementing the necessary procedures to obtain a commercial license in the Emirates. The services provided can include assistance in choosing the most appropriate commercial activity, providing advice about the different types of commercial licenses, and providing assistance in obtaining Obtaining the necessary permits, assistance in opening a bank account, and providing assistance in obtaining the necessary visas.

It is important to choose a reliable and licensed consulting company to provide these services, and to ensure that they comply with local laws and regulations. It is also recommended to check company ratings and reviews from previous customers before committing to any service.

According to the type of business activity and the type of company to be established. But in general, the following documents may be required:

1. A copy of the passport or ID card of the owner/founders.
2. A copy of the lease or ownership contract for the office in which the company will be established.
3. A copy of the experience certificate and academic qualifications required for the business activity (if required).
4. An authorization letter if another person is appointed to manage the company.
5. A letter of support from the local bank confirming the founders’ ability to finance the company.
6. A list of business activities that the founders wish to engage in.
7. Application form for obtaining a commercial license.

There may be different additional requirements between emirates and between different business activities. It is recommended to check the specific requirements for each emirate and for each type of company and commercial activity before starting the process of obtaining a commercial license.

Frequently asked questions about business licenses in Dubai