Types of Business Licenses in Dubai and Their Issuance Costs Dubai is considered one of the most prominent global business destinations thanks to its advanced economic environment and excellent infrastructure it provides to investors. When considering setting up a business in Dubai, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the types of business licenses available and the procedures involved in issuing them. Dubai offers a variety of business licenses that suit different business activities, giving investors multiple options that suit the nature of their business. Business licenses in Dubai include different categories such as general commercial license, professional license, service license, supply license, in addition to licenses specific to free zones. Each type of these licenses requires specific requirements and procedures, and comes with varying costs depending on the type of activity and size of the company.
When you work with Itqan, you can get comprehensive and targeted support to obtain the right commercial license for your business. Itqan has extensive experience in commercial and procedural consulting, helping you choose the license that best suits the nature of your business and ensuring that all legal and procedural requirements are met. Itqan also provides comprehensive consultations on the costs associated with issuing licenses, which include government fees, registration costs, and any additional fees that may be required. By working with Itqan, you can simplify the process of obtaining a commercial license and save time and effort, allowing you to focus on developing your business and investing effectively in the growing Dubai market.

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ToggleTypes of commercial licenses available in Dubai
Dubai is one of the world’s most important business destinations, thanks to its dynamic economic environment, advanced infrastructure, and business promotion strategies. Business licenses in Dubai are one of the key factors that determine how a business can be established and operated in the city. The types of business licenses available vary to meet the diverse needs of investors and businesses, with each type offering specific benefits and guidelines that suit the nature of the business activity. Types of Business Licenses in Dubai
- General Commercial License: The general commercial license is the most common and is suitable for companies that engage in general commercial activities such as retail or wholesale. This license allows for commercial transactions that include the purchase and sale of goods and services.
- Professional License: This license is granted to companies that provide specialized professional services such as consulting, accounting, law, and engineering. A professional license is necessary for activities that require specialized skills and experience to provide professional services.
- Services License: A services license is for companies that provide a variety of services such as travel, maintenance, or consulting. This license allows companies to provide a wide range of services without having to deal with the sale of goods.
- Supply License: The supply license is available to companies engaged in import, export and distribution. Related activities include trading in raw materials, finished products and other goods that are widely distributed.
- Free Zone License: This license is issued to companies operating in Dubai’s free zones. This license offers many benefits including 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. Free zones include areas dedicated to industrial, commercial and technological activities, such as Dubai Silicon Oasis and Jebel Ali Free Zone.
- Branch License: This license allows foreign companies to open branches in Dubai. The branch license is suitable for companies that want to expand their presence in the UAE market under the mother brand name.
- Joint Stock Company License: This license is granted to companies that wish to establish themselves as a public or private joint stock company. This license requires a certain number of shareholders and allows them to raise funds from the public or investors.
Understanding the different types of business licenses is essential to the success of any business in Dubai. Choosing the right license helps ensure compliance with legal and operational requirements, and allows businesses to effectively offer their services or products in Dubai’s diverse market.
Documents required to obtain a commercial license in Dubai
When looking to set up a business in Dubai, obtaining a trade license is an essential step to ensure that the activity starts legally and smoothly. Dubai, thanks to its advanced business environment, imposes a set of legal and procedural requirements that every investor or company must meet. One of the most important aspects of the company formation process is to submit the required documents accurately and in an organized manner, as these documents contribute to speeding up the process of issuing the license and avoiding any delays or complications. Documents required to obtain a trade license in Dubai
- Passports: Colour copies of the passports of all shareholders and principal directors of the company must be provided. The passports must be valid and of clear quality to ensure easy verification.
- Personal Photos: Recent personal photos of the founders and directors must be provided. The photos must be of high quality and conform to the standards set by the competent authorities in Dubai.
- Registration Application Form: The registration application form of the authority responsible for issuing the license must be completed and submitted, which includes information about the business activity, the company structure, and the personal data of the founders.
- Business Plan: Provide a detailed business plan that outlines the company’s goals, market strategies, and financial plans. The business plan helps assess the feasibility of the project and ensure its compliance with the requirements of the stakeholders.
- Lease Contract: A lease contract for an office or commercial space in Dubai must be submitted. The contract must be valid and signed by the entity that owns the office or space.
- Shareholder Approval: If there are partners or shareholders, documents must be submitted showing their approval of the establishment of the company. This may include official powers of attorney or legal documents as required by the relevant authorities.
- Incorporation Documents: Incorporation documents such as the Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association are required. These documents specify the structure of the company, the distribution of shares, and the powers of the directors.
- Business Proof: Provide evidence of the nature of the business the company will be conducting. This document may include details about the products or services offered.
- Insurance: Some entities may require insurance policies that include liability or property insurance. Check the specific insurance requirements of the entity responsible.
- Additional Permits: Depending on the type of business, you may need to apply for additional permits or licenses related to the specific activity, such as health or environmental licenses.
Providing these documents in full and accurately is an essential part of the process of obtaining a trade license in Dubai . Preparing the necessary documents correctly will speed up the process and ensure compliance with all the requirements of the competent authorities, which will help you establish your business smoothly and efficiently.

Learn about commercial licenses in Dubai
In conclusion, choosing the right type of business license in Dubai is a vital step for any investor looking to establish a successful business in this dynamic market. Dubai offers a wide range of business licenses to suit different business activities, including general commercial license, professional license, service license, and supply license, in addition to free zone licenses. Each of these license types comes with specific requirements, procedures, and costs that vary based on the nature of the business and the size of the company.
By partnering with Itqan, you can get the support you need to determine the most appropriate license for your business and ensure that all necessary steps to obtain the license are followed smoothly and efficiently. Itqan provides specialized consultations that help you understand all aspects of the licensing process, including government fees, registration costs, and any additional expenses that may be required. With Itqan’s expertise and in-depth knowledge of regulations and procedures, you can be confident that you are taking the right steps and staying up to date with the latest amendments and regulations.
In partnership with Itqan, you can simplify the process of obtaining a commercial license and achieve the best results with the least possible time and effort. Obtaining the right license is an essential part of the success of your business in Dubai, and by partnering with Itqan, you will be able to establish your business efficiently and in a way that guarantees you a strong start in the market. Therefore, Itqan’s services allow you to overcome administrative and commercial challenges, allowing you to focus on growth and expansion in an encouraging and thriving business environment.
Frequently asked questions about commercial licenses in Dubai
What types of business licenses are available in Dubai?
Dubai has several types of business licenses, including general commercial license, professional license, service license, supply license, and free zone license. Each type suits a different type of business activity, such as general trading, consulting services, or companies operating in free zones.
What documents are required to obtain a trade license in Dubai?
The required documents vary depending on the type of license and business activity, but typically include passports, personal photos, registration application form, business plan, office lease agreement, and in some cases shareholder approval. All documents must be submitted accurately to facilitate the registration process.
How long does it take to issue a trade license in Dubai?
The process of issuing a commercial license usually takes two to four weeks, depending on the type of license and the complexity of the procedures. The time period may vary based on the speed of completing the documents and requirements.
What are the costs associated with issuing a trade license in Dubai?
The main costs include registration fees, business license fees, lease costs, visa fees, and any additional fees that may be associated with legal and administrative services. Costs vary depending on the type of license and the size of the company.
Can the commercial license be modified after it has been issued?
Yes, the commercial license can be modified after it is issued to change the commercial activity, add new activities, or modify information related to the company. This requires submitting an official request to the responsible authority and updating the license according to the required modifications.
Are there any government incentives or support for business licenses in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai offers a number of government incentives and support to investors, including tax exemptions, licensing facilitations, and startup support programs. The type of support varies depending on the business activity and location.
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