Commercial LicenseCommercial licence in Dubai
A commercial licence is the most common licence on the Dubai mainland. It covers businesses that trade goods or provide general services, from a single-product importer to a general trading company.
Licences are issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). If your company will make the goods it sells, you will need an industrial licence instead; if it sells expertise rather than goods, a professional licence may fit better. We help you choose before you apply.
Typical commercial activities
- General trading
- Import and export
- Electronics and IT equipment
- Building and construction materials
- Foodstuff trading
- Vehicle rental
- Logistics and freight
- E-commerce
Advantages of a commercial licence
- Trade across the UAE
Sell to any customer in any emirate, without a distributor.
- Several activities
Combine related activities on one licence as the business grows.
- Office anywhere
Choose premises anywhere in Dubai that meet your activity's rules.
- Visas for your team
Sponsor employees and family members, in line with your office size.
How to obtain a commercial licence
- Choose your activities and legal form
- Reserve the trade name with DET
- Obtain initial approval
- Sign the memorandum of association
- Register the office lease (Ejari)
- Pay the fees and receive the licence
Validity and renewal
A commercial licence is valid for one year. Renewal needs a valid lease and any external approvals linked to your activities. We track the date and start the renewal well before it expires.