Can a foreign investor own 100% of a company with a Commercial License in Dubai?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is available for many commercial activities in Dubai. Some strategic or regulated activities may still have additional ownership or approval requirements.

Which commercial activities require additional government approvals in Dubai?

Certain activities involving regulated products or sectors may require approvals beyond the standard business licence. These can include areas such as food, pharmaceuticals, medical products and other controlled goods.

Does a Commercial License automatically allow me to import and export goods?

Not by itself. The license must include the appropriate trading activity, and businesses moving goods through Customs must also complete the relevant customs registration and product-specific requirements.

Do I need a Dubai Customs Business Code to import or export goods?

Yes, if your company will clear goods through Dubai Customs, it generally needs to register and obtain a Customs Business Code. Additional permits may also apply depending on the type of goods being imported or exported.

Can I sell products online with a Dubai Commercial License?

Yes, if the license includes the appropriate e-commerce or trading activity for the products you intend to sell. Additional approvals may apply depending on the product category and business model.

Does a Dubai Commercial License guarantee a corporate bank account?

No. A Commercial License allows the company to apply for a corporate bank account, but approval depends on the bank's KYC, ownership, source-of-funds and business-profile checks.

Can I add or change trading activities after my Commercial License is issued?

Yes, approved activities can generally be added, removed or amended after the license is issued. The company must apply for a license amendment, and some new activities may require additional approvals.

Can I hire employees with a Dubai Commercial License?

Yes. A commercial company can hire employees, subject to the applicable labour and immigration requirements. The number of visas available can depend on the company's premises, activity and workforce needs.

What are the annual renewal requirements for a Dubai Commercial License?

The license must normally be renewed each year, along with any related premises documents and activity-specific approvals. Visa, immigration and compliance requirements may also need to be kept up to date.

Can I change from a Professional License to a Commercial License later?

It may be possible, but the change can require a license amendment, different business activities or even a different legal structure. The exact process depends on what the company plans to do.

What legal structures can I use with a Commercial License in Dubai?

The available legal structure depends on the business activity, ownership and licensing requirements. Common options include an LLC, sole establishment, civil company and branches of local, Free Zone or foreign companies, subject to DET approval.

Can I combine e-commerce and physical retail under one Commercial License?

In many cases, yes, if both activities are approved and included on the same licence. The exact setup depends on the products being sold, the chosen jurisdiction and whether any additional approvals are required for the physical retail location or product category.

Commercial License in Dubai | Requirements, Cost & Process

What Is a Commercial License in Dubai?

A Commercial License in Dubai allows businesses to carry out approved commercial activities such as trading, retail, distribution, and the buying and selling of goods. Issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), it is a common choice for businesses ranging from electronics and furniture retailers to food traders, automobile businesses, and medical equipment suppliers.

Whether you’re launching a trading company, retail business, or product-based enterprise, Vista helps you select the right business activity and legal structure, prepare the required documentation, and manage the licensing process through to issuance.

100% Foreign Ownership available for eligible activities
End-to-End Support including documentation and PRO services
Expert Activity Guidance to match your licence with your business model
Corporate Banking Assistance to support your post-licensing setup

Can Foreigners Own a Commercial Business in Dubai?

Eligible mainland businesses can benefit from 100% foreign ownership, although ownership requirements may vary by activity and applicable regulations. Vista assesses your proposed activity and setup requirements upfront, helping you establish your business with the appropriate licence and structure.

Benefits of Commercial License Dubai

Full Foreign Ownership

Own your business completely with no local sponsor required. The UAE Commercial License now allows 100% foreign ownership across most sectors, giving you full control, profit retention, and freedom to grow your company the way you envision.

Low Tax Advantage

Enjoy Dubai’s investor-friendly tax regime of 0% personal income tax, and only 9% corporate tax on mainland profits above AED 375,000. A commercial trade license in Dubai ensures more savings and smarter reinvestments for your business expansion.

Market Access Freedom

Whether mainland or free zone, a commercial license gives you complete access to local and international markets. Trade freely within the UAE or export globally through Dubai’s well-connected logistics and world-class infrastructure.

Strategic Global Gateway

Dubai’s unmatched location connects your business to major economies across Asia, Africa, and Europe. With a UAE Commercial License, you enter global trade routes supported by advanced ports, airports, and digital business ecosystems.

Legal & Credible

Get instant credibility with a legally recognised license. It’s your key to open corporate bank accounts, sign contracts confidently, and build trust with clients and suppliers worldwide, a must for every serious entrepreneur.

Multi-Activity Flexibility

Operate up to ten related activities under one commercial license. From trading to logistics, your company can scale faster while staying compliant, all managed seamlessly under a single unified business license.

Easy Visa Sponsorship

Simplify employee and family visa processes. Your commercial trade license in Dubai allows smooth visa sponsorship for owners, staff, and dependents - helping you build your team and life in the UAE.

How to Get a Commercial License In Dubai : Process

EASY STEPS TO OBTAIN A COMMERCIAL LICENSE IN DUBAI

01. Choose Business Activity

Pick what your company will trade or sell. The right activity defines your license type.

02. Select Legal Structure

Decide your company type from Sole Proprietorship, LLC, or Branch based on your ownership goals.

03. Pick Your Jurisdiction

Choose Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore. Each offers different trade rights and ownership flexibility.

04. Reserve Trade Name

Choose a clear, unique business name that follows Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) rules.

05. Get Initial Approval

Apply for pre-approval from DET or your Free Zone authority to proceed with the setup process.

06. Draft Memorandum Agreement

Prepare and notarise your MoA. It defines ownership, responsibilities, and company objectives clearly.

07. Finalise Office Space

Secure your business address. A physical office or Flexi-desk registered through Ejari (for the mainland).

08. Apply for License

Submit all documents and fees to the DET or Free Zone authority for your commercial license issuance.

09. Launch Your Business

Once approved, receive your Commercial Trade License in Dubai and officially start operating your company.

Who Needs A Commercial License?

Trading & Retail Buying and reselling goods, whether wholesale, retail, or both, within the UAE or for export.

Import & Export Sourcing products internationally and distributing them in the UAE market, or exporting UAE goods to global markets.

Specialised Product Sectors Certain goods can only be traded under a Commercial License (not a General Trading License). These include:

Automobiles & Motor Vehicles
Computer Systems & Communication Equipment
Medical & Surgical Equipment
Pharmaceutical Products
Foodstuffs & Beverages
Furniture & Interiors
Readymade Garments & Textiles
Software & Technology Products
Building Materials & Construction Supplies
Electronics & Electrical Equipment

Not sure which license you need?

Our consultants will analyse your activity list and recommend the right license type.

Renewing a Commercial License UAE

A Commercial License in Dubai is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Failure to renew on time results in fines and, if left too long, potential license cancellation.

Vista Global’s renewal service ensures you never miss a deadline. We send renewal reminders, handle all government submissions, and process renewals well before expiry so your business never faces a compliance gap.

Why Choose Vista Global Business Setup?

Deep Regulatory Knowledge: Our consultants stay current with every update from DET, MOHRE, ICA, and free zone authorities. When regulations change, and they change often, your license setup reflects the latest requirements.

Transparent, Fixed-Fee Packages: No surprise invoices. We provide a written cost breakdown before you commit to anything.

Beyond the License: We help you open corporate bank accounts, register for VAT and Corporate Tax, hire staff, and keep your books in order. Everything your commercial enterprise needs, under one roof.

Post-Setup Compliance Support: Annual license renewal, visa renewals, accounting, audits, we’re with you for the long term, not just the setup.

Connect with Vista team

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on where the company is registered and the type of activity. Mainland businesses generally need an approved business address, while some Free Zones offer flexi-desks or shared workspace options for eligible activities.

The total cost depends on the jurisdiction, business activities, legal structure, office or workspace, number of visas and any additional approvals required. Regulated activities or larger premises can also increase the overall setup cost.

A business should only carry out activities approved under its current license. If you want to add a new commercial activity, the license should be amended first and any required approvals obtained.

A Commercial License usually covers specific approved trading activities or product categories. A General Trading License allows a business to trade across a broader range of permitted goods, subject to the rules of the licensing authority.

A Commercial License is generally used for buying, selling and trading goods. A Professional License is typically used for service-based activities that rely on professional expertise, such as consultancy or other approved services.

Yes, you can. A Commercial License in Dubai allows you to include several related trading activities under one license, usually up to ten. Just make sure all activities fall within the same category and are approved by the relevant authority before starting operations.

The right option depends on how and where you plan to operate. Mainland can suit businesses that need broader direct access to the UAE market, while a Free Zone may suit businesses focused on international trade, specialist sectors or flexible workspace options.

Commercial License In Dubai, UAE

What Is a Commercial License in Dubai?

Can Foreigners Own a Commercial Business in Dubai?