What are the three types of trade licenses in Dubai?

Dubai offers three main types of trade licenses: Commercial License (for trading activities like import/export and retail), Professional License (for service-based businesses like consulting and freelancing), and Industrial License (for manufacturing and industrial activities).

How much does a trade license cost in Dubai?

A trade license in Dubai costs between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000 depending on the type (commercial, professional, or industrial), jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), and number of activities included.

Can I get a trade license without a physical office in Dubai?

Yes, in free zones you can get a trade license with a virtual office or flexi-desk arrangement. However, mainland trade licenses typically require a physical office address registered with Ejari.

How to Get a Trade License in Dubai: Types, Costs & Process

Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai

Dubai offers several types of trade licenses, each designed for specific business activities:

1. Commercial License

Required for any trading activity, including import/export, general trading, retail, and wholesale. This is the most common license type for businesses involved in buying and selling goods.

2. Professional License

Designed for service-based businesses and professionals, including consulting firms, IT companies, marketing agencies, freelancers, and any business that provides services rather than physical products.

3. Industrial License

Required for manufacturing, processing, or industrial activities. This license involves additional approvals from environmental and industrial regulatory bodies.

4. Tourism License

Specifically for travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, and tourism-related businesses, regulated by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

License Costs Breakdown

License Type	Mainland (AED)	Free Zone (AED)
Commercial	15,000 - 30,000	8,000 - 20,000
Professional	10,000 - 20,000	5,000 - 15,000
Industrial	20,000 - 50,000	15,000 - 35,000
Tourism	15,000 - 25,000	N/A

These figures are approximate and vary by emirate, number of activities, and additional requirements. Contact Entityz for a precise quotation based on your specific needs.

Application Process

Determine your business activity: Identify the specific activities your company will undertake.
Choose your jurisdiction: Decide between mainland and free zone based on your business needs.
Reserve your trade name: Submit a trade name reservation request through the relevant authority.
Apply for initial approval: Submit your application with required documents for preliminary approval.
Secure office space: Obtain an Ejari-registered tenancy contract (mainland) or office package (free zone).
Submit final documents: Provide all remaining documents and pay the license fees.
Receive your license: Your trade license is issued, and you can begin operations.

Documents Needed

Passport copies of all shareholders/partners
Passport-size photographs
Trade name reservation certificate
Initial approval certificate
Tenancy contract (Ejari) or free zone office lease
MOA (Memorandum of Association) for mainland companies
NOC from current sponsor (if changing visa status)

License Renewal

Trade licenses in Dubai must be renewed annually. The renewal process is straightforward and typically involves paying the renewal fee, maintaining valid office space, and ensuring all regulatory requirements are met. Entityz offers annual renewal packages to handle this process for you, ensuring your business remains fully compliant.

Failing to renew your license on time can result in fines and potential legal issues, so it is important to plan ahead and renew before the expiry date.