Commercial License in Dubai
Establish a trading company in Dubai mainland or free zone – get Dubiz Help!
How to Obtain a Commercial License in Dubai
Starting a business in Dubai is an exciting opportunity but it begins with choosing the right business license. One extremely popular choice is the commercial license in Dubai.
You must be wondering “what is a commercial license in UAE?”. A UAE commercial license allows businesses to trade a wide range of goods within and outside the UAE, including food, toys, cosmetics, clothing, construction materials, and much more. The license is not just a legal necessity for trading business in Dubai but a secret key to high-potential markets across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Today, modern and forward-thinking entrepreneurs are choosing Dubai as their business location, thanks to its world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and booming economy. At Dubiz Business Setup, we aim to simplify your company formation in Dubai and make it an unforgettable experience.
What Is a Commercial License in Dubai?
A commercial license in Dubai is a business license that allows you to buy, sell, and trade a wide variety of goods and some services within Dubai, as well as outside the UAE.
With this license, businesses receive legal permission to conduct commercial activities in various industries such as automotive, electronics, retail, food, cosmetics, real estate, and more, including import and export operations.
Whether you want to run a general merchandise store, sell products on Instagram, open a classy boutique shop, or import products from other countries, a commercial trade license in Dubai gives you the legal authority and protection to operate confidently.
Types of Dubai Commercial Trade License
The common categories of commercial license in Dubai include:
Standard trade license
This license is for businesses that want to trade in a specific type of product. Your business activities must match what is mentioned on the license. For example, you can be a clothing retailer, a food seller or an electronics dealer.
General trading license
If you want more flexibility to trade in multiple unrelated products, the general trading license is the right choice. This license allows you to deal with various types of goods under a single license. Example of business: a general retailer.
E-commerce license
An e-commerce license is ideal for businesses that want to sell products online through social media, websites or online marketplaces. It is a great option for those looking for a low-cost business setup in Dubai
Start Your Business in Dubai World’s Favourite Business Destination
World’s Favourite Business Destination
Dubai’s rapidly growing economy, tax-friendly policies, and strategic global location give it a clear edge over other markets. Setting up a commercial trading business in Dubai opens the door to success and growth for both you and your business endeavours!
Here is how to obtain a commercial license in Dubai:
How to Get Commercial License in Dubai?
Getting a commercial license in UAE involves a few key steps. You can make the process even simpler by obtaining your license with the help of our industry experts.
Choose your business activity:
Decide your business location:
Determine your legal structure:
Reserve your business name:
Get the required approvals:
Secure office or workspace:
Prepare your documents:
Apply for the commercial license:
Collect your license & start business:
Business Jurisdictions for Commercial License
You can start a commercial trading company in Dubai in either of its two main jurisdictions: the mainland or a freezone.
Mainland Business Setup
- Flexible trading across UAE and internationally.
- Select any office or retail location in the mainland.
- Eligibility to bid on government contracts.
- Licensing directly under the DED.
- Broader range of commercial business activities.
Freezone Business Setup
- Guaranteed 100% business ownership.
- Choose from more than 30 specialized freezones.
- Access to modern and high-tech facilities.
- Quick and easy company registration process.
- Regulated by respective zone authority.
How Much Does a Commercial License Cost in Dubai?
The commercial license cost in Dubai depends on the business jurisdiction you choose:
Freezone commercial license
Mainland commercial license
Cost of commercial license in Dubai may vary with the nature of your business and the activities you select. Plan your budget wisely by knowing your costs in advance.
Calculate CostPermitted Commercial Activities in Dubai
Pick Your Passion. Turn It Into Profit.
In Dubai, you will find a broad range of government-approved business activities covered under the commercial license. You can choose what aligns with your interests with greater freedom.
Food & beverages
Fashion & clothing
Beauty & cosmetics
Furniture & décor
Building materials
Toys & baby goods
Office supplies
Property rentals
Got Something Else in Mind? Discuss With Us.
Documents Required for Commercial Trade License in Dubai
- Filled license application form
- Passport copy of owner
- Passport size photos
- Trade name reservation
- Office lease contract
- Additional documents if asked
Not sure about paperwork? Let experts handle it for you!
Why Start a Commercial Trading Company in Dubai?
Holding a Dubai commercial license offers many benefits, including:
Tax reliefs:
Trading companies in Dubai can benefit from 0% VAT and may qualify for 0% corporate tax. Additionally, there are no personal income taxes to worry about.
Market access:
Businesses can access not only the UAE market but also major international markets across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Wide business scope:
There are many thriving industries to choose from, and a commercial license may allow multiple business activities under one license.
Easy hiring process:
Commercial companies in Dubai can hire foreign nationals and secure work visas for their employees easily.
Fast and simple setup:
The process of starting and registering a trading business in Dubai is streamlined with less red tape and fewer delays.
Modern business environment:
Dubai’s advanced infrastructure, facilities, and ecosystem make it easy to run and grow a business efficiently.
How Dubiz Can Help with UAE Commercial License?
However, the first and most important step is choosing the right guidance. At Dubiz Business Setup, we guide entrepreneurs through every step of obtaining a Dubai commercial license.
Our experts at Dubiz specialize in both mainland and freezone company formation. Whichever jurisdiction you choose for your commercial trading company, we will provide the best consultation along with hands-on support for all legal processes and approvals.
We are offering your first consultation absolutely free.