The Commercial License in Dubai serves as the key that unlocks the doors to endless possibilities. This trade license Dubai not only grants you the legal authority to conduct commercial activities within the emirate but also opens doors to a network of global opportunities. Whether you’re venturing into retail, trading, or any other commercial enterprise, the Commercial License ensures that your business is recognised and regulated according to the laws and regulations of Dubai.
List of Activities Under Commercial Licence Dubai
Activities permitted under a commercial license in Dubai depend on the type of commercial license and the regulations set by the relevant authorities. Here is a list of common commercial activities that are typically covered by a commercial license in Dubai.
- 1. Retail Trading - Sale of goods to end consumers.
- General Trading - Import, export, distribution, and storage of various products.
- Food and Beverages - Restaurants, cafes, catering, and food trading.
- Real Estate Brokerage - Buying, selling, and leasing of real estate.
- Tourism and Travel Agency - Organizing and selling travel packages, hotel bookings, and related services.
- Healthcare Services - Clinics, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related services.
- Consultancy Services - Business consultancy, management consultancy, and other professional services.
- Information Technology Services - Software development, IT consulting, and related services.
- Advertising and Media - Advertising agencies, media production, and marketing services.
- Event Management - Planning, organizing, and managing events.
- Educational Services - Private education institutions, training centers, and tutoring services.
- Beauty and Wellness - Salons, spas, and beauty-related services.
- Logistics and Transportation - Freight forwarding, shipping, and transportation services.
- Automobile Services - Sale of automobiles, spare parts, and related services.
- E-commerce - Online retail and trading activities.
- Financial Services - Banking, financial consulting, and related services.
- Manufacturing and Industrial Activities - Production of goods and industrial activities.
Steps to Get a Commercial Licence Dubai
Obtaining a commercial license in Dubai involves several steps, and the specific process may vary based on the type of business activity and the legal structure of your business.
1) Business Activity Selection:
Identify the specific business activities you intend to engage in. This is crucial as the type of commercial license you apply for will depend on your business activities.
2) Legal Structure Selection:
Choose a legal structure for your business. Common structures include Sole Establishment, Limited Liability Company (LLC), and Free Zone Company. The legal structure will impact the ownership, liability, and other aspects of your business.
3) Trade Name Registration:
Choose a unique and appropriate trade name for your business and get it approved by the relevant authorities. Ensure that the name aligns with the guidelines provided by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority.
4) Initial Approval:
Obtain initial approval for your business activities from the DED or the relevant free zone authority. This involves submitting the necessary documents and receiving approval for your business concept.
5) Legal Form and Ownership Structure:
Define the legal form and ownership structure of your business. This is crucial for determining the ownership share and the liability of the partners or shareholders.
6) Memorandum of Association (MOA):
Draft and sign the Memorandum of Association (MOA) for your business. This document outlines the company’s objectives, activities, and details about the partners or shareholders. It must be notarised.
7) Location Approval:
Obtain approval for the physical location of your business. This step is essential for businesses operating outside free zones. Ensure that the location complies with zoning regulations.
8) License Application Submission:
Submit the license application along with all required documents to the DED or the relevant free zone authority. The documents typically include the application form, MOA, copy of the lease agreement, passport copies of shareholders, etc.
9) Payment of Fees:
Pay the necessary fees associated with the license application, registration, and any other applicable charges
10) Final Approval and License Issuance:
Once all documents are verified, and fees are paid, the DED or free zone authority will issue the final approval and the commercial license for your business.
11) Visa Processing (if applicable):
If your business requires visas for employees, you will need to apply for and obtain the necessary visas through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Learn more – Dubai Trade licence renewal steps
Documents Required Commercial License in Dubai
There are specific documents that will be required to be submitted for obtaining a commercial license in Dubai and this can largely vary based on the business type, legal structure, and the regulations of the relevant authorities. However, here is a general list of documents that are commonly requested when applying for a commercial license in Dubai:
- Trade Name Reservation Certificate: A document proving that your chosen trade name has been approved and reserved.
- Initial Approval Certificate: Obtained from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant free zone authority, this certificate signifies preliminary approval for your business activities.
-
Memorandum of Association (MOA): A notarized document outlining the company’s objectives, activities, and details about the partners or shareholders.
-
Application Form: A completed application form for the commercial license, provided by the DED or the free zone authority.
- Passport Copies: Copies of the passports of all partners or shareholders involved in the business. In some cases, a copy of the UAE residence visa may also be required.
- Visa Page Copies: Copies of the visa pages of all partners or shareholders who are UAE residents.
- Emirates ID Copies: Copies of the Emirates ID cards for all partners or shareholders.
-
Lease Agreement: A copy of the lease agreement for the business premises. This is required to verify the physical location of the business.
- Ownership or Authorization Documents: For businesses with multiple partners, documents proving ownership or authorization to establish the business.
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Sponsor: If any of the partners or shareholders are sponsored by a UAE national, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor may be required.
- External Approvals (if applicable): Depending on the nature of your business, you may need additional approvals from external entities or government departments. For example, certain healthcare or educational activities may require approvals from the relevant regulatory bodies.
- Payment Receipts: Receipts confirming payment of the required fees for the license application and other associated charges.
Commercial License Cost in Dubai
The cost of obtaining a commercial license in Dubai can vary depending on several factors, including the type of business, the legal structure, and the location (mainland or free zone). Additionally, there are fees associated with various stages of the licensing process. All in all, you can expect to spend anywhere between 10,000 to 50,000 AED depending on the type of business you are choosing to set up.
