Get Your Dubai Trade License, Fast & Fully Managed
Launch your business in the UAE with a legally compliant trade license. Our consultants handle documentation, government approvals, and licensing — so you don't have to.
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Overview
What Is a Trade License in Dubai?
A trade license in Dubai is an official permit issued by a relevant UAE government authority — such as the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or a free zone authority — that legally authorises a company to conduct specific business activities within the emirate.
Every business operating in the UAE is legally required to hold a valid and active trade license matching its business activities. Operating without a license can result in heavy fines, forced closure, and legal liability.
Businesses in Dubai can obtain a trade license under three primary jurisdictions:
- Mainland — Trade freely across the entire UAE market
- Free Zone — 100% foreign ownership, streamlined setup
- Offshore — International operations, asset protection
Mainland License
Regulated by DET. Full access to UAE market, government contracts, and no restrictions on business locations.
Free Zone License
Issued by free zone authorities. 100% foreign ownership, fast setup, ideal for international trade and online businesses.
Offshore License
Designed for holding companies, international transactions, and asset protection with minimal operational setup.
License Types
Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai
Dubai issues different license types based on the nature of your business activity. Choose the category that matches your operations.
Commercial License
For businesses involved in trading goods — import, export, wholesale, retail, and distribution activities across the UAE.
Professional License
Suitable for service-based businesses: consultancies, marketing agencies, IT providers, auditors, and freelancers.
Industrial License
Required for manufacturing, production, assembly, and processing activities within the UAE or free zones.
E-Commerce License
Enables businesses to legally sell products or services online in the UAE digital market via websites and apps.
Tourism License
Issued by the DTCM for businesses offering travel, tourism, hotel, and hospitality services in Dubai.
Healthcare License
For clinics, pharmacies, wellness centres, and health-related service providers regulated by DHA in Dubai.
How It Works
Trade License Application Process
Our consultants manage the entire process from start to finish — saving you time, effort, and costly mistakes.
1
Choose Activity
Select the business activities you want to conduct in Dubai or the UAE.
2
Select Jurisdiction
Decide between mainland, free zone, or offshore based on your goals.
3
Trade Name
Choose and register an approved company name with the relevant authority.
4
Initial Approval
Authorities review and approve the business activity and company structure.
5
License Issued
Complete payment and documentation — your trade license is officially issued.
Requirements
Documents Required for a Trade License
Having your documents in order avoids delays and rejections. Our team reviews and prepares all paperwork on your behalf.
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- UAE visa copy (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs
- Approved trade name certificate
- Initial approval certificate
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Office tenancy contract (Ejari registered)
- No Objection Certificate (if required)
Requirements
Trade License Renewal in Dubai
Keep Your Business Fully Compliant
All UAE trade licenses must be renewed annually. Failure to renew on time results in daily fines, potential visa cancellations, and business suspension. DocsAndBiz handles your entire renewal process — from document preparation to authority submission.
01
Document Review
We review your current license and identify all required renewal documents.
01
Submission
Our team submits your renewal application to the relevant authority on your behalf.
01
License Renewed
Your renewed trade license is issued and delivered — business continues uninterrupted.
Get In Touch
Ready to Start Your Business in Dubai?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who trusted DocsAndBiz to launch their UAE operations. Get expert guidance from day one — consultation to license issuance.
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About Us
DocsAndBiz provides professional documentation and PRO services for individuals and businesses across the UAE. We assist with company formation, visa processing, document attestation, and certified translations.
Get In Touch
- +971 52 628 2029
- +971 55 295 0955
- docsandbiz.ae@gmail.com
- Near to Satwa Round About Al Satwa, Dubai, UAE
- In MERAL Building, Jumeirah Garden City, Al Satwa, Jumeirah, Dubai