A Trade License in Dubai is a mandatory legal document for businesses to operate in the UAE, issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authorities. At Buraqs CNP Consultants, based in Hor Al Anz, Dubai, we guide clients from the UK, USA, Germany, France, and beyond to secure their trade licenses seamlessly. This 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about trade licenses, including types, requirements, process, and benefits, to launch your business in Dubai’s thriving economy.

What is a Trade License in Dubai?

A trade license in Dubai is an official permit authorizing a company to conduct specific commercial, professional, or industrial activities in the emirate. Issued by the DED for mainland businesses or by free zone authorities for free zone entities, it ensures compliance with UAE regulations and defines the scope of business operations. In 2024, Dubai issued over 400,000 trade licenses, reflecting its status as a global business hub.

The trade license is essential for opening corporate bank accounts, sponsoring employee visas, and accessing government services. Buraqs CNP Consultants simplifies the process, ensuring your Dubai business setup meets all regulatory requirements.

Types of Trade License in Dubai

Dubai offers various trade licenses based on business activities and jurisdiction. The main types include:

1. Commercial License: For trading activities like import/export, retail, or logistics, issued by DED or free zones.
2. Professional License: For service-based businesses like consultancy, legal services, or IT, ideal for freelancers and SMEs.
3. Industrial License: For manufacturing or industrial activities, such as factories or production units.
4. Tourism License: For businesses in travel, hospitality, or tour operations, regulated by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Jurisdictional Categories

• Mainland License: Issued by DED, allowing operations across the UAE with full foreign ownership in most sectors since 2021.
• Free Zone License: Issued by authorities like DMCC or JAFZA, offering 0% tax and 100% ownership in over 50 free zones.
• Offshore License: For businesses operating outside the UAE, issued by free zones like RAK ICC, with no physical office requirement.

Our UAE company formation consultancy at Buraqs CNP Consultants helps you select the right license type for your business goals.

Requirements for Trade License in Dubai

To obtain a Trade License in Dubai, businesses must meet specific requirements, varying by license type and jurisdiction. General documents include:

• Passport copies of shareholders and directors (minimum 6 months’ validity).
• Emirates ID and UAE residency visa copies (for residents, if applicable).
• Business name approval from DED or free zone authority, ensuring compliance with UAE naming rules.
• Tenancy contract or Ejari certificate for a physical office (mandatory for mainland licenses).
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Articles of Association, outlining company structure and activities.
• Initial approval application form from DED or free zone authority, specifying business activities.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsors, if applicable (e.g., for existing visa holders).
• Business plan or feasibility study (for specific activities like healthcare or education).

Additional requirements, such as external approvals from regulators like the Ministry of Health for medical businesses, may apply. Buraqs CNP Consultants ensures all documents are complete and compliant with DED or free zone regulations.

How to Obtain a Trade License in Dubai

Securing a Trade License in Dubai is efficient with Buraqs CNP Consultants’ expert support. Here’s the step-by-step process:

• Choose Business Activity and Jurisdiction: Select your business activity (e.g., trading, consultancy) and jurisdiction (mainland, free zone, or offshore). Our team advises on the best fit.
• Reserve Business Name: Apply for name approval via DED’s e-services portal or free zone authority, ensuring it aligns with UAE naming conventions.
• Gather Documents: Collect required documents, including passport copies, MOA, and Ejari, with our guidance to meet regulatory standards.
• Submit Initial Application: Apply for initial approval through DED (via e-services or typing centres) or free zone portals, specifying activities and ownership structure.
• Secure External Approvals: Obtain approvals from relevant authorities (e.g., DTCM for tourism, KHDA for education), if required, with our coordination.
• Sign Tenancy Contract: Finalize a tenancy contract and register it with Ejari for mainland licenses, or lease a free zone office/flexi-desk, if applicable.
• Pay Fees and Finalize: Settle license fees via online payment or in-person, and receive your trade license within 3-7 working days, depending on the jurisdiction.

Our Dubai visa consultancy leverages relationships with DED and free zone authorities to expedite your DED license Dubai process.

Costs of Trade License in Dubai

The cost of obtaining a Trade License in Dubai varies based on the license type, jurisdiction, and additional services. Typical expenses include:

• License issuance and registration fees, payable to DED or free zone authorities.
• Business name reservation and initial approval fees.
• Ejari and tenancy contract registration fees (for mainland licenses).
• External approval fees for regulated activities (e.g., healthcare, tourism).
• Service fees for typing centres or free zone agents, if applicable.
• Professional fees for consultancy and document preparation (contact us for a tailored quote).

Buraqs CNP Consultants provides transparent cost guidance to ensure a cost-effective UAE mainland license or free zone setup.

Benefits of Trade License in Dubai

Obtaining a Trade License in Dubai offers significant advantages for businesses:

• Legal Operation: Authorizes your business to operate legally, ensuring compliance with DED or free zone regulations.
• Market Access: Mainland licenses allow trading across the UAE and GCC, while free zone licenses enable global operations with 0% tax benefits.
• Visa Sponsorship: Enables sponsoring employee and family visas, supporting workforce expansion.
• Banking Support: Facilitates opening corporate bank accounts with banks like Emirates NBD, essential for financial operations.
• Business Credibility: Enhances your company’s legitimacy for government tenders, partnerships, and client trust.
• 100% Ownership: Full foreign ownership in most mainland and free zone sectors since 2021, attracting global investors.
• Economic Stability: Dubai’s business-friendly environment, with over 3.5% GDP growth in 2024, ensures long-term profitability.

With Dubai hosting over 50 free zones and a vibrant mainland market, a trade license is your gateway to UAE business license success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Trade License in Dubai

1. What is a trade license in Dubai?

A trade license is a legal permit issued by DED or free zone authorities, allowing businesses to conduct specific activities in Dubai.

2. How long does it take to get a trade license in Dubai?

The process typically takes 3-7 working days, depending on the jurisdiction and approvals, with Buraqs CNP Consultants ensuring efficiency.

3. Can foreigners obtain a trade license in Dubai?

Yes, foreigners can obtain a trade license with 100% ownership in most mainland and free zone sectors since 2021.

4. What is the difference between mainland and free zone licenses?

Mainland licenses allow UAE-wide operations with fewer restrictions, while free zone licenses offer tax benefits and are limited to free zone activities unless distributed locally.

5. How can Buraqs CNP Consultants help with a trade license?

Our Dubai-based team provides end-to-end support, from activity selection to document preparation and authority approvals, for a seamless license process.

Contact Buraqs CNP Consultants for Trade License Support

Ready to secure your Trade License in Dubai? Buraqs CNP Consultants, based in Hor Al Anz, Dubai, offers expert Dubai business setup and visa consultancy to streamline your license process. Book a free consultation today!

• Phone: +971 58 664 8470
• Email: admin@buraqscnp.com
• Address: Alsafiya-Bldg Office No 1f-54, Hor Al Anz, Dubai, UAE

Fill out our online form to schedule a consultation or request a tailored trade license plan. Let’s launch your business in Dubai!

Disclaimer: I’d like to point out that the information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice. While Buraqs CNP strives to ensure accuracy, we don’t have any warranties regarding the completeness or suitability of this content for your specific situation. If you choose to act on this information without consulting Buraqs CNP’s expert services, you do so at your own risk. Buraqs CNP is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from the use of this information without our direct consultation. For personalized assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Buraqs CNP to ensure your business setup or visa process is handled correctly.