Trade LicensesTrade licences in Dubai and across the UAE
Every business in the UAE needs a licence that matches what it actually does. On the Dubai mainland, licences are issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); each free zone issues its own.
The activities written on your licence decide what you may invoice for, which approvals you need and how many visas you can apply for. We help you choose them carefully at the start, because changing them later costs time and money.
Types of trade licence
- Commercial licence
For buying, selling and trading goods, including import, export and general trading.
- Professional licence
For service providers, consultants and skilled practitioners whose business rests on their expertise.
- Industrial licence
For manufacturing, processing and assembly, usually with a physical facility and additional approvals.
- Tourism licence
For travel agencies, tour operators and hospitality businesses.
- E-commerce licence
For selling online through your own website, marketplaces or social media.
- Free zone licence
Issued by a free zone authority, with packages built around your activity and visa needs.
What a licence gives you
- Legal standing
The right to operate, sign contracts and invoice customers in the UAE.
- Banking
A valid licence is the first document a bank asks for when you open a corporate account.
- Visa eligibility
The ability to sponsor yourself, your staff and your family for residence.
- Credibility
Customers, suppliers and landlords can verify that your company is properly registered.
Steps to get a trade licence
- Choose your business activities and legal form
- Reserve a trade name
- Obtain initial approval from the licensing authority
- Sign the memorandum of association or equivalent
- Secure an office address and register the lease
- Obtain any external approvals your activity needs
- Pay the fees and receive the licence
Renewing your licence
A trade licence is renewed every year. Starting about a month before expiry avoids fines and gaps in your visa and banking services.
- Check your lease
The tenancy contract must be valid for the new licence period. Renew it first if it is close to expiry.
- Clear outstanding fines
Any penalties on the licence or establishment card are settled before the renewal is accepted.
- Renew approvals
Activities that needed an external approval may need that approval refreshed.
- Submit and pay
We file the renewal, pay the government fees on your behalf and send you the renewed licence.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner own a trade licence in Dubai?
Yes. Free zone companies have always allowed full foreign ownership, and most mainland commercial and industrial activities now do as well. A small number of strategic activities still carry ownership conditions, which we check before you apply.
How long does it take to get a licence?
A straightforward free zone licence can be issued in a few working days. A mainland licence typically takes one to three weeks, depending on the approvals your activity requires.
Can I add or change activities later?
Yes, through a licence amendment. Activities generally need to belong to the same licence category, and some will need a new external approval.
What happens if my licence expires?
Fines begin to accrue, and visa, banking and government services linked to the licence can be suspended until it is renewed. If you no longer need the company, it should be formally closed rather than left to lapse.
Do I need an office to get a licence?
Mainland licences require a registered lease. Many free zones accept a flexi-desk or shared office, which keeps the cost down for a new business.