Open a business license in Dubai

Dubai is considered one of the most prominent business destinations in the world, as it is characterized by an attractive investment environment and advanced infrastructure that supports business growth. Obtaining a business license in Dubai is an essential step to starting any business activity, whether it is in the local market or in free zones that provide many advantages to investors. The process of opening a commercial license in Dubai is easy and flexible, with many options available that meet the needs of various sectors and industries.

The journey to obtaining a commercial license begins by determining the type of business activity and the legal form of the company, as a variety of options are available, including limited liability companies, sole proprietorships, and local branches of foreign companies. The type of license depends on the targeted business activity, and can be a commercial, professional or industrial license. After choosing the legal form and activity, comes the step of choosing the company name, which is a procedure that requires adherence to some standards and laws set by the Department of Economic Development in Dubai.

The process of issuing a commercial license includes submitting required documents such as copies of passports, legal certificates, and lease contracts, in addition to paying the related fees. Fees vary based on the type of business and the company’s chosen location. The “Instant Permit” system issued by the Department of Economic Development allows the issuance of a commercial license in a record time of up to 5 minutes for some activities, making it easier for investors to start their businesses quickly and effectively.

Open a business license in Dubai

Open a business license in Dubai

Opening a business license in Dubai may require many requirements. It is not easy, things that need some money go to many competent authorities, pay fees and complete procedures, which takes a lot of time and effort for a person to get it. Types of commercial licenses that every investor needs, whether in Dubai or in free trade zones, as our company has sufficient experience to complete all commercial licensing procedures and help people obtain them easily and conveniently, saving time and effort. For its clients, our company is the first aid for companies of this type that will initiate and complete all the requirements of each company. Therefore, he has great experience in this field. If you are a new investor and want to open a business license, do not hesitate to use our company because it is the best company. They can help you obtain a trading license in the shortest time and at the lowest cost.

Basic steps to obtain a business license in Dubai

Here are the basic steps to obtain a business license in Dubai :

1. Determine the commercial activity: You must determine the type of commercial activity you wish to practice, as this affects the type of license required and the conditions arising from it.
2. Choosing the legal form of the company: You must choose the appropriate legal form for your company, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a branch of a foreign company, or a joint liability company.
3. Company name registration: Choose a trade name that complies with the standards and conditions set by the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED). The name must be unique and reflect the nature of the business.
4. Preparing and documenting the lease contract: A lease contract for the company’s headquarters must be obtained and documented with Dubai Municipality. This contract must be valid and comply with the required standards.
5. Submitting a license application: Submitting an application for a commercial license to the Department of Economic Development, attaching the required documents and paying the prescribed fees.
6. Review of other government agencies (if any): Some activities may require additional approvals from other government agencies, such as the Ministry of Health, Dubai Municipality, or the Roads and Transport Authority.
7. Payment of fees and receipt of the license: After approval by the Department of Economic Development and other parties (if necessary), the final fees are paid and the commercial license is received.
8. Opening a bank account: After obtaining a commercial license, a commercial bank account can be opened for the company, which is an essential step for conducting business and facilitating financial transactions.
9. Tax registration (if required): If your business requires it, you may need to register with the value-added tax (VAT) system and comply with all other tax requirements.

Types of business licenses available in Dubai

Dubai offers a variety of commercial licenses that meet the needs of various commercial, industrial and service activities. Here is an overview of the types of business licenses available in Dubai:

• Commercial License: Designated for companies that deal in commercial activities such as retail trade, wholesale trade, distribution, import and export.
• Industrial licence: intended for companies that engage in industrial activities such as manufacturing, production, assembly and packaging.
• Professional License: Granted to companies that provide professional and consulting services such as legal consulting, financial services, information technology services, and educational services.
• Tourist licence: Designated for companies operating in the tourism sector, such as travel agencies, tour organizing companies, internal and external tourism companies, and hotels.
• Freelance License: Targets individuals who work independently in fields such as graphic design, writing, and technical consulting.
• Event Organizing License: Granted to companies that organize events, exhibitions, conferences, and entertainment activities.
• Agricultural licence: intended for businesses that include agricultural activities, animal husbandry, and fishing.
• Educational license: Granted to educational institutions such as schools, institutes, universities, and training centers.
• Health License: Designated for health institutions such as hospitals, clinics and medical laboratories.
• Media License: Granted to companies operating in media fields such as publishing, radio, television, and media production.
• Transportation and Logistics Services License: Addressed to companies that provide transportation, shipping, warehousing, and logistics services.
• Renewable Energy License: Targets companies working in the fields of renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
• E-commerce license: intended for companies that operate e-commerce platforms and sell products and services online.
• Crafts and handicrafts license: intended for craftsmen and companies that focus on handicrafts and crafts.

The cost of obtaining a business license in Dubai

Obtaining a business license in Dubai requires taking into account several different elements and costs that depend on the type of business activity and the location of the company. There are several factors that can affect the overall cost of obtaining a business license in Dubai, and these factors include:

1. Type of commercial activity: The type of license required varies based on the commercial activity to be practiced (commercial, industrial, professional, tourism).
2. Location: Costs vary between free zones and areas outside free zones. Free zones often offer benefits such as full foreign ownership and tax exemptions.
3. Registration fees: Includes registration fees with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant authority in the free zone.
4. Office rental costs: Office rental costs vary depending on the location and size of the office required. Some free zones require specific leases.
5. Government licenses and permits: Some commercial activities require obtaining special permits from the relevant government agencies.
6. Security approval fees: Some activities may require security approvals from the relevant authorities.
7. Articles of Association Fees: Includes preparing and documenting the Articles of Association and partnership agreements.
8. Visa fees: Includes work visa fees for founders and employees.
9. Administrative costs: include administrative fees and services provided by various bodies.
10. Membership Fees: Some chambers of commerce may require an annual membership fee.
11. Specialized license fees: These include specific licenses for certain activities such as e-commerce or industrial activities.
12. Infrastructure costs: such as the costs of electricity, water, Internet and other basic services.

Documents required to obtain a business license in Dubai

Obtaining a commercial license in Dubai requires submitting a set of basic documents to the relevant authorities. These documents depend on the type of business activity, the legal structure of the company and the chosen location (inside or outside the free zones). Below is a list of documents generally required to obtain a business license in Dubai:

1. License application form: The license application form is filled out and submitted to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the competent authority in the free zone.
2. Copies of passports: Provide valid copies of the passports of all shareholders, partners and directors.
3. Personal photographs: Passport size photographs of all shareholders, partners and directors.
4. Memorandum of Association and Partnership Agreement: The Memorandum of Association and Partnership Agreement must be prepared and documented, and submitted to the relevant authority. The contract must include details of the partners and their shares in the company.
5. A copy of the lease contract: Submit a notarized lease contract for the office or commercial location from which the company will operate. The contract must be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
6. No Objection Certificate (NOC): If a shareholder or partner is currently employed by another company in the UAE, he or she may need to submit a NOC from his or her current employer.
7. Initial approval: Submit an application to obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the competent authority in the free zone. This approval is obtained before starting to prepare the final documents.
8. Business Plan: Submit a detailed business plan that explains the company’s goals, the type of business activity, and the services or products it will provide.
9. A copy of the commercial register: If the parent company is located outside the Emirates, a copy of the commercial register of the parent company must be submitted, certified by the relevant authorities.
10. Special licenses and permits: For some commercial activities, you may need to submit additional licenses and permits from the relevant government authorities (such as health, environmental, tourism licenses, etc.).
11. Capital Details: Provide details about the paid-up capital agreed upon between the partners.
12. Legal Powers of Attorney: If there is a local service agent or legal representative, a copy of the notarized power of attorney must be provided.
13. Certificate of good standing: A certificate of good standing may be requested from the country of origin of shareholders and partners.
14. Trade name registration forms: Submit the proposed trade name registration forms for the company.

Company establishment services in Dubai

Our company works to provide many services to all categories, especially investors and businessmen, as the company:

• Establishing and opening companies for various businesses to help its clients start their own commercial activities and working to equip these companies with all the requirements and needs that they require.
• It should be established and established by experienced specialists that allow the investor to own the company ready to start work.
• The company has many ready-made companies that it offers for rent.
• Our company establishes and equips offices, and there are also offices for rent.
• Our company helps you obtain a commercial license for your business that you are starting.
• The company’s work team employs many economists who help people determine the success of their project and prepare a feasibility study for them.

In conclusion, obtaining a business license in Dubai is a crucial step to start a business and achieve success in one of the most dynamic cities in the world. Dubai’s licensing system is flexible and efficient, making it easier for investors and entrepreneurs from all over the world to establish their businesses and take advantage of the enormous economic opportunities the city offers.

The process of obtaining a commercial license in Dubai includes several steps, starting with choosing the type of business activity and determining the legal form of the company, then registering the trade name and obtaining the necessary approvals from the competent authorities. This process also requires preparing the required documents and paying license-related fees. Many investors prefer to obtain a business license in Dubai free zones, due to the benefits they offer such as full foreign ownership and tax exemptions.

The most important frequently asked questions about opening a business license in Dubai