Learn how to open a business license in Dubai because Dubai’s economy attracted many foreigners and investors, as Dubai’s economy made it one of the richest Arab countries that existed after the discovery of oil. Initially, the economy of Dubai was based on trade, extracting pearls from the sea and selling them, but then a completely different oil was discovered, which caused a major change in the economy of the whole country and led to many results, as the UAE is the focus of attention of many People moved and everything the world wanted to create investment projects to earn a lot of money because it contains all the factors of success in a distinguished location and environment. Therefore, investing in Dubai has become everyone’s idea, but it is not easy to get someone to do it, but we have to study it, as there are many requirements that every investor must start with. Every company, one of the most important, must obtain a business license to allow the start of any activity. In this article, we will review about opening a commercial license in Dubai .

Open a business license in Dubai
Investing in Dubai
Due to Dubai’s excellent location that made it the center of everyone’s attention, the presence of a modern transportation network linking it to everyone, the presence of security and security in Dubai and the state of political stability, all of this was one of the most important factors that encouraged many people to move to Dubai to invest with it. However, to start a business in Dubai, you must obtain a business license in order to work with that product and pursue the profession you want. There are many other requirements, such as having a company that helps run the business and serves as the official headquarters for your company. It is difficult for people to do it on their own, especially foreigners, because they do not know the characteristics of the country, the locations of things and the parties involved. Because our company is interested in encouraging investment in Dubai, it helps all investors to obtain commercial licenses that come from a business. Our company is one of the first companies to start companies that support entrepreneurs.
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.
Types of business licenses in Dubai
Here is a table showing the types of commercial licenses in Dubai :
Type of license | the description | Permitted activities |
---|---|---|
Business license | It is granted to organizations that wish to engage in public commercial activity. | Retail, wholesale, business services. |
Industrial license | It is awarded to enterprises that produce or manufacture goods. | Manufacturing, production, assembly. |
Tourist license | Awarded for activities related to tourism and hospitality. | Hotels, travel agencies, tourism services. |
Professional license | Awarded to individuals or companies that provide professional services. | Consulting, law, translation, education. |
Service license | It is awarded to companies that provide various services. | Maintenance, transportation, consulting, and employment services. |
Free trade license | It is granted to companies operating in the free zones in Dubai. | Retail trade, import and export, manufacturing. |
Special license | Granted for activities that require special permits or additional licenses. | Financial activities, real estate, pharmaceuticals. |
These types of licenses align with various business activities and help determine registration and licensing requirements based on the nature of the business.
How to open a business license in Dubai
Opening a business license in Dubai requires following specific steps to ensure compliance with all local laws and regulations. Here are the basic steps to open a business license in Dubai:
- Determine the type of business activity : You must determine the type of business activity you wish to practice, as the types of licenses differ based on the type of activity.
- Choosing a trade name : Choose a trade name that complies with the regulations in force in Dubai. Make sure the name does not conflict with any other intellectual property rights or trademarks.
- Verifying the availability of the trade name : Verify the availability of the trade name you have chosen through the electronic portal of the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) or through the authorized service office.
- Preparing the required documents : Prepare all necessary documents, which may include:
- Passport of the owner/partners
- Memorandum of Association
- Approvals from the competent authorities if necessary
- Choose a company type : Select the type of legal entity for your company, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a branch of a foreign company, or a sole proprietorship.
- Submitting a license application : Submit an application to obtain a commercial license through the electronic portal of the Department of Economic Development or through one of the approved service centers.
- Meet the location requirements : If you want to rent an office or commercial space, make sure you meet the location requirements according to the type of business.
- Payment of fees : Pay the fees required to obtain a commercial license. Fees vary based on the type of activity and type of license.
- Receiving the license : After reviewing and approving the application, the commercial license will be issued. You can collect it from the Department of Economic Development or by mail if the service is available.
- Registration with other entities : You may need to register with other entities, such as the Dubai Chamber or the General Authority for Companies, depending on the type of business activity. Make sure you follow all requirements carefully to ensure you successfully obtain your business license.
Itqan Company services for establishing companies in Dubai
Itqan Company offers a range of comprehensive services for establishing companies in Dubai , including:
- Providing legal advice : The company provides integrated legal advice on the requirements and regulations necessary to establish a company in Dubai.
- Company Registration : Facilitates mastering the company registration process by applying for commercial licenses and complying with all legal and procedural requirements.
- Obtaining commercial licenses : The company helps in obtaining all types of commercial licenses required to operate a business in Dubai.
- Providing offices : Itqan offers different options for office space in free zones and commercial buildings to meet the needs of emerging companies.
- Dealing with government agencies : The company is responsible for interacting with local authorities to obtain the necessary permits and licenses.
- Preparing documents : It prepares all the legal and administrative documents necessary to establish companies and submits them to the competent authorities.
- Post-incorporation services : Includes ongoing support in all aspects of business management after incorporation, including renewing licenses and updating data.
- Providing customized services : According to the client’s needs, Itqan provides customized solutions that help achieve business goals and expand business activity.
Using Itqan’s services, new businesses can benefit from extensive experience and integrated support to ensure a successful start-up of business in Dubai.

Types of business licenses in Dubai
The importance of a trade license for establishing companies in Dubai
A trade license is necessary for establishing companies in Dubai for several main reasons:
- Legal Compliance : A business license ensures that the company operates within the framework of local laws and regulations, preventing any legal problems or fines.
- Official business : Without a business license, a company cannot legally conduct business activities. It proves that the company has obtained the necessary permits for its operation.
- Facilitating transactions : A commercial license is a prerequisite for dealing with financial institutions, such as opening bank accounts, obtaining financing, or conducting financial transactions.
- Legal Rights : A business license gives a company legal rights to conduct business, including trade name and trademark protection.
- Employment : To enable a company to legally employ employees, obtaining a business license is necessary. The license helps facilitate the process of issuing work and residence permits to employees.
- Contracts and Agreements : The commercial license is considered an essential document when signing contracts and agreements with other companies or government agencies.
- Commercial activities : The commercial license provides the legal framework for conducting commercial activities, which contributes to building the company’s reputation and increasing the confidence of customers and partners.
- Privileges and Benefits : Sometimes, a business license provides special benefits to companies, such as benefiting from incentives offered by free zones or special economic zones.
Overall, a trade license is the cornerstone of establishing any company in Dubai, and helps ensure smooth operation and compliance with all legal and procedural requirements.
At the conclusion of our article about opening a business license in Dubai , we find that the process of obtaining the license is a vital step in establishing any business activity in this vibrant city. By following the specific steps, from determining the type of business and choosing the appropriate trade name, all the way to submitting the application and receiving the licence, investors and entrepreneurs can ensure that their companies operate in accordance with local laws and have all the necessary legal rights. A commercial license facilitates many aspects of business, including dealing with government agencies, opening bank accounts, and hiring workers. The commercial license also opens doors to opportunities for growth and expansion in the Dubai market, which is distinguished by its wide investment opportunities. In the end, a business license is more than just a legal document; It serves as a solid foundation for successfully entering the business world and achieving business goals.
Frequently asked questions about opening a commercial license in Dubai
How long does it take to obtain a commercial license?
Time varies based on activity type and order status. It usually takes 7 to 10 business days if all documents are complete.
Is it possible to open a commercial license without having a physical office?
In some free zones, it is possible to obtain a business license without the need for a physical office. But in most cases, a registered business address is required.
Is it possible to modify or renew the commercial license?
Yes, the trade license can be modified or renewed. A request to update information or renew the license must be submitted sufficiently before its expiration.
What types of business licenses are available in Dubai?
The main types include: commercial license, industrial license, tourism license, professional license, and service license.