Commercial License in Dubai

Ready to launch your business in Dubai? Get your commercial license hassle-free with Vista Business Setup. Our expert team ensures a seamless process, so you can focus on what matters most – building your dream venture in one of the world's most vibrant cities.


Elevate your business ambitions with a commercial license in Dubai. Trust Vista Business Setup to navigate the complexities, providing tailored solutions and unparalleled support for your entrepreneurial journey.

Embark on your entrepreneurial journey with confidence by securing your commercial license in Dubai with Vista Business Setup. Our dedicated team of experts provides personalized support every step of the way, from initial consultation to license acquisition. With our streamlined processes and commitment to excellence, we make the process of obtaining a commercial license in Dubai hassle-free, allowing you to focus on what matters most – building and growing your business.

Benefits of Getting a Commercial License in Dubai – UAE

Access to Global Markets

Dubai's strategic location offers unparalleled access to global markets, making it an ideal hub for businesses looking to expand internationally. With a commercial license, companies can leverage Dubai's connectivity to reach customers across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and beyond.

Tax Incentives

Dubai is known for its favorable tax environment, with no personal tax and low corporate tax. Businesses holding a commercial license can take advantage of these tax incentives, allowing them to maximize profits and reinvest in their growth strategies.

Business Flexibility

Commercial licenses in Dubai allow for a wide range of business activities across various sectors, including trading, retail, manufacturing and services. This flexibility enables companies to adapt their operations to changing market conditions and explore new opportunities as they arise.

Enhanced Credibility

Holding a commercial license demonstrates a company's commitment to operating within the legal framework of Dubai and the UAE. This enhances credibility and trust among customers, suppliers and business partners, facilitating smoother transactions and collaborations.

Investor-Friendly Environment

Dubai's pro-business policies and investor-friendly regulations make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors. With a commercial license, businesses can take advantage of the city's vibrant ecosystem of startups, multinational corporations and industry leaders, fostering innovation, collaboration and growth.

Infrastructure and Support Services

Dubai offers world-class infrastructure and support services tailored to businesses of all sizes. From state-of-the-art office spaces and logistics facilities to efficient transportation networks and access to skilled workforce, having a commercial license in Dubai provides access to the resources necessary for success.

Networking Opportunities

Obtaining a commercial license in Dubai opens doors to extensive networking opportunities within the business community. Dubai hosts numerous industry events, trade shows and networking forums where businesses can connect with potential clients, partners and investors.

The Process of Getting a Commercial License In UAE

EASY STEPS TO OBTAIN A COMMERCIAL LICENSE IN DUBAI
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Select a Jurisdiction

There are two main jurisdictions for a commercial license in UAE which are Mainland and Freezone.

Select Business Activities

Optimize your business potential by selecting up to 10 business activities of the same group and license type on Dubai Mainland for your license.

Select Number of Shareholders or Partners

Choose the number of shareholders for your business license which may affect the license cost.

Reserve Your Business Name

Select three business names for approval. Our team will guide you through the process, ensuring your chosen names align with legal requirements and resonate with your brand identity.

Submit Your Documents

To obtain your mainland license, simply submit the required documents.

Get Initial Approval

Get the initial approval swiftly after submitting your documents.

Get External Approval (if required)

Apply for external approval if activities require it.

Get Tenancy Contract (Ejari)

Submit your tenancy contract (Ejari).

Sign Memorandum of Association (MOA)

Sign and submit your MOA copy.

Documents Required to Obtain a Commercial License

Setting Up a Business in UAE
  • Passport copies.
  • Passport photos of the shareholders and directors of the company.
  • Completed license application form.
  • Initial approval certificate.
  • Business name reservation certificate.
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA).
  • Tenancy contract.
  • Required NOC letter from the current sponsor (If the shareholder is an employee, NOC is required from a company on letterhead).
  • Education and professional qualifications.
  • Approvals from relevant industry authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

A commercial license in Dubai legally authorises businesses to conduct trading activities, such as buying, selling, distributing, and storing goods within the UAE and internationally. It is essential for industries like retail, logistics, general trading, e-commerce, and brokerage, enabling companies to establish themselves in thriving emirates like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and RAK.

Types of Licenses Under the Commercial License Category in the UAE:
  • General Trading License: This is for businesses dealing with multiple unrelated products.
  • E-Commerce License: For companies engaged in online trading.
  • Import/Export License Focused on the movement of international goods.
  • Specialised Trading License: This is for niche industries such as luxury goods or industrial materials.
With a commercial trade license, businesses can leverage the UAE’s strategic location as a global trade hub and business-friendly environment, gaining seamless access to local and international markets.

A commercial license in the UAE covers a wide range of industries, allowing businesses to operate legally within the UAE and internationally. Key industries include:
  • Retail: Consumer goods, electronics, and fashion.
  • Logistics: Freight forwarding, warehousing, and distribution.
  • General Trading: Import/export and specialised trading.
  • E-Commerce: Online platforms and digital marketplaces.
  • Real Estate: Brokerage, buying, and leasing properties.
  • Construction: Trading building materials and equipment.
  • Food and Beverage: Packaged, fresh, and processed food trading.
  • Automotive: Vehicles, spare parts, and accessories.
  • Health and Beauty: Cosmetics, personal care, and medical equipment.
  • Hospitality: Hotel and restaurant supply trading.

A commercial license in the UAE allows businesses to legally engage in a variety of trading activities, offering flexibility to operate within the UAE and internationally. Below is a structured overview of the key activities covered:
1. General Trading
  • Import and export of diverse goods.
  • Trading multiple unrelated products under one license.
2. Specialized Trading
  • Electronics and appliances.
  • Fashion, textiles, and garments.
  • Automotive parts and accessories.
  • Luxury goods and jewellery.
2. Specialized Trading
  • Electronics and appliances.
  • Fashion, textiles, and garments.
  • Automotive parts and accessories.
  • Luxury goods and jewellery.
3. E-Commerce
  • Online retail and delivery services.
  • Operation of digital platforms for trading goods.
4. Real Estate Brokerage
  • Buying, selling, and leasing properties.
  • Real estate consulting and brokerage services.
5. Wholesale and Retail Trading
  • Bulk trading and distribution.
  • Operating retail outlets and stores.
6. Logistics and Transportation
  • Warehousing and storage services.
  • Operating retail outlets and stores.
7. Food and Beverage Trading
  • Import and export of food products.
  • Trading packaged and processed foods.
8. Construction Materials and Equipment
  • Trading in building materials and industrial tools.
  • Equipment rental and sales.
9. Health and Beauty Products
  • Trading in cosmetics and skincare products.
  • Import and export of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment.

Yes, professional licenses in the UAE often require additional approvals from relevant authorities, depending on the nature of the business activity. These approvals ensure compliance with industry-specific regulations and standards.
Industry-specific approvals:
  1. Healthcare Services: Approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) or the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for medical clinics, pharmacies, or healthcare consultancies.
  2. Educational Services: Authorization from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for schools, training institutes, and other educational facilities.
  3. Legal Services: Approval from the Legal Affairs Department for law firms and legal consultants.
  4. Engineering and Architectural Services: Certification from the Dubai Municipality or relevant emirate-specific authorities.
  5. Media and Publishing: Clearance from the National Media Council (NMC) for publishing houses, advertising agencies, and media consultancies.
  6. Financial Services: Approval from the Central Bank of the UAE for financial consultancies and advisory firms.
These special approvals are necessary in both mainland and free zone jurisdictions, depending on the activity. Businesses must obtain these clearances during the licensing process to ensure smooth operations and compliance with UAE laws.

Types of licenses issued under the commercial license category:
  • A general trading license allows businesses to deal with multiple unrelated products under one license. This includes wholesale, import/export, and retail trading activities, making it ideal for companies that want to handle diverse goods like electronics, textiles, and consumer products.
  • A specialized trading license focuses on niche industries, such as automotive parts, luxury goods, jewelry, and industrial equipment. It enables businesses to concentrate on specific product categories, catering to specialized market demands.
  • An E-Commerce License is designed for online trading businesses, allowing companies to sell products and services through digital platforms. It includes running online marketplaces and delivering goods directly to customers, tapping into the UAE’s growing online shopping market.
  • An import/export license is for businesses involved in international trade, allowing them to bring goods into the UAE or export products to other countries. This license is essential for companies operating in the UAE's free zones or engaging in global supply chain activities.
  • A real estate trading license covers activities like buying, selling, and leasing properties. It’s suitable for real estate brokers, consultants, and agencies operating within the UAE's thriving property market.
  • A logistics and distribution license is for businesses managing the transportation, storage, and distribution of goods. It supports companies handling supply chain operations, warehousing, and freight forwarding services.

Yes, businesses can operate multiple activities under a single commercial license in Dubai, provided the activities fall within the same category or are related. The Department of Economic Development (DED) and free zone authorities allow companies to group similar activities under one license to simplify operations and reduce costs.
For example:
  • A business dealing in electronics trading can include accessories trading under the same license.
  • A general trading license enables businesses to trade in multiple unrelated products, offering greater flexibility.
If the activities are unrelated or belong to different categories, additional approvals may be required from the relevant authorities. Free zones also offer customisable license packages that allow multiple activities, making it easier for businesses to scale operations within the UAE’s dynamic markets.

Yes, a physical office or workspace is typically required to obtain a commercial license in Dubai. This requirement ensures that businesses have a legal address for conducting their operations and meeting compliance standards set by the authorities.

For mainland companies, a valid tenancy contract (Ejari) is mandatory. The size of the office must align with the nature and scale of the business as specified by the Department of Economic Development (DED).

In free zones, businesses can opt for more flexible options such as:

  • Flexi-Desks: Shared workspaces that meet the legal address requirement while being cost-effective.
  • Physical Offices: Required for larger-scale operations or specific activities.
While a physical office is generally mandatory, the flexi-desk option provided by many free zones makes it easier for startups and small businesses to meet this requirement without incurring high costs.
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