How to get a new Trade License in Dubai?
Dubai, known for its bustling business operations, is an economic powerhouse of the world. As the country plans to double foreign investment here, it is the right time for foreign investors to start their business in Dubai. Top Focus, your trusted business setup consultant, will help you understand the procedures to start a business in Dubai by getting a new trade license. We will also guide you through the steps involved in trade licenses, different types of trade licenses etc.
Dubai Trade License is a legal document essential for investors to start a business in Dubai. Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authorities, a trade license permits an investor to run his business and manage commercial activities in Dubai. As specific industries need specialised licenses, we can classify trade licenses into different types.
Different types of Trade Licenses
Dubai is in a move to promote non-oil foreign investment in the country, and different types of trade licenses are issued to accommodate various business activities and business structures.
Commercial (Trade) License
If you are planning a business that involves buying, selling, or distributing goods, you need a commercial license.
Professional License
This license is for businesses running law firms, consultancy services or medical practices.
Industrial License
Any investor planning to venture into manufacturing or industrial activities needs to access this license.
Freelance Permit
Dubai also opens up windows of opportunities to professionals who want to start business activities on a freelance basis.
E-Commerce License
E-Commerce is the most prevalent mode of business operation now, and a separate license is essential for this.
Branch Office License:
If you are planning to open a branch of your business in Dubai, it is essential to get a branch office license.
7 Free Zone, Mainland, or Offshore License
Businesses operating in different locations need to get their new trade license from the authorities concerned. Investors can start their business operations in Dubai Mainland, Free Zones, or Offshore require different licenses.
Mainland License
Businesses planning to operate in the mainland need this license to operate. A license condition here is the support of a local sponsor who holds 51 per cent of the share of the company. A key advantage of a mainland license is permission to conduct their activities across the UAE and trade directly with mainland companies.
Free Zone License
100 per cent foreign ownership is permitted for businesses running in Free Zones. However, businesses cannot operate outside the free zone and need the support of a local distributor or agent for transactions with the mainland.
Offshore license
Offshore license permits businesses to register in an offshore jurisdiction without being physically located in Dubai. An offshore license is used mainly for international financial activities, investments, asset holding etc. Offshore companies, however, cannot be involved in business with business within the UAE. Offshore businesses are permitted to carry out trade with mainland and free zone companies.
What are the advantages of a new Trade License in Dubai?
Dubai Trade License is the key to starting a business in strategic locations in Dubai and getting access to markets in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Investors have to pay only the minimum income tax and corporate tax in Dubai. Besides, businesses get support for operating industry-focused free zones and enjoy customs duty exemptions, availability of a skilled labour pool, quick setup processes etc. Dubai does not impose restrictions on any currency, and the business can enjoy supportive government initiatives. Furthermore, investors can sponsor employee visas and family visas.
Copies of Residency visa- Passport copies of all partners
- Trade name certificate
- Emirates IDs
- NOCs
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Tenancy contract
- Additional documents requested by the DED, if any
Document required
Why Choose Top Focus?
Top Focus PRO service helps investors to obtain new trade licenses painlessly. Experienced in managing trade licenses, residency visas, trademark registration and other regulatory requirements for investors, Top Focus fuels up the business setup procedures. With our comprehensive business support environment, we guide you through document gathering, application submission, sponsor support management and other tasks in Dubai. We have expert teams in Dubai to manage your license requirements in the mainland or free zone. Accurate application submission and quick documentation management by our team complete the licensing process on a fast-track basis
If you are planning to invest in Dubai, contact Top Focus. By partnering with us, you can set aside your worries about regulatory compliance.
