Types of commercial licenses in Dubai and their issuance costs. Dubai is one of the most prominent global destinations for investment and business, as it provides an ideal environment for establishing companies and achieving success at various levels. Perhaps one of the most important factors that contribute to making Dubai a global commercial center is the diversity of commercial licenses available in it, which allow companies and individuals to practice various commercial activities within an organized legal framework supported by extensive government facilities. The types of commercial licenses in Dubai include several categories that suit the nature of the activities that investors wish to practice, such as commercial licenses that allow the practice of general commercial activities or professional licenses designated for businesses that require specialized expertise such as engineering and consulting. There are also industrial licenses for companies that wish to practice manufacturing activities and products, in addition to tourism licenses that suit businesses related to hospitality, tourism and entertainment.
The cost of issuing a commercial license in Dubai depends on several factors, including the type of activity, the size of the company, and the location where the business will be established, as costs vary between free zones and the mainland. Dubai facilitates the procedures for establishing companies and provides great flexibility in determining the appropriate license at competitive costs, in addition to the existence of special offers in some free zones to attract investors from all over the world, and the cost of a license can range from a few thousand dirhams to tens of thousands, depending on the type of activity and the size of the company.
Obtaining a commercial license in Dubai is the first step towards starting a successful business. With the cooperation of specialized companies such as “Itqan”, investors can benefit from support and guidance in choosing the appropriate license and reducing the costs and complex procedures, making establishing a business in Dubai an easy and profitable experience in the long run.

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ToggleTypes of commercial licenses available in Dubai
Dubai is one of the most prominent global destinations for business and investment in Dubai , as it is characterized by providing a flexible and stimulating business environment that attracts investors and entrepreneurs from all over the world. Commercial licenses are one of the most important requirements that any investor or entrepreneur needs to start his business in Dubai. The UAE government, represented by the various economic departments, provides a variety of commercial licenses that allow investors to practice multiple activities within clear and specific legal frameworks. The diversity of these licenses reflects the diversity of economic activities in Dubai, which include areas such as trade, industry, professional services, and tourism, giving each investor the opportunity to choose the license that suits his needs and the nature of his business activity. Types of commercial licenses available in Dubai :
- Commercial License: This license is for commercial activities that include buying, selling and distributing goods. This type is most common among investors who work in general trade areas such as importing and exporting products.
- Professional License: This license is granted to companies or individuals who practice activities that rely on technical or professional expertise or skills. These activities include engineering, consulting, medical services, education, and others.
- Industrial License: This license is given to companies that work in manufacturing or production, and is required for any company wishing to set up a factory or production facility in Dubai. This license requires additional approvals from the government authorities responsible for production and manufacturing.
- Tourism License: This license is necessary for any business activity related to tourism, such as travel companies, hotels, tour operators, and services related to the hospitality sector. The tourism sector is one of the most important economic sectors in Dubai, so this license receives great attention.
Dubai offers a comprehensive and open business environment thanks to the variety of types of commercial licenses that allow investors from different fields to start their projects in a legal and organized manner. Choosing the appropriate type of license depends on the type of business activity and the field in which the investor wants to work, which provides him with ease of launching in the promising Dubai commercial market.

Tax benefits of business licenses in Dubai
Dubai is one of the world’s leading investment destinations, with a favorable business environment that attracts entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world. One of the most important factors that contribute to making Dubai a global business hub is the flexible and low tax system offered by the emirate, which provides local and international companies with a range of distinctive tax benefits. These benefits make Dubai an ideal destination for businesses seeking rapid growth and reduced financial burdens. The commercial licenses available in Dubai offer many opportunities to benefit from an incentive tax system that enhances the competitiveness of companies in the local and global market. Tax benefits of commercial licenses in Dubai:
- Corporate Income Tax Exemption: Most companies operating in Dubai enjoy a complete exemption from corporate income tax, which is one of the biggest advantages that attract companies to invest in the emirate. This exemption helps companies increase their profits and reduce operating costs, which contributes to improving competitiveness.
- No personal income tax: Dubai does not impose any personal income tax, which means that employees and business owners can retain all their income without having to pay taxes to the state. This advantage attracts global talent to work and invest in Dubai, which supports business growth and increases the chances of success.
- Tax exemption for free zones: Dubai’s free zones offer a number of tax benefits, including a complete exemption from income and profit taxes for up to 50 years. In addition, companies in free zones can benefit from the freedom to repatriate profits and capital without restrictions.
- Low Value Added Tax (VAT): Although the UAE has a 5% VAT, it is one of the lowest tax rates in the world. Moreover, many companies operating in free zones are exempt from this tax or can recover part of it, reducing the tax burden on businesses.
- No import and export taxes in free zones: Companies operating in free zones enjoy complete exemption from customs duties on import and export, which facilitates their entry into global markets and increases their ability to expand.
Businesses that obtain trade licenses in Dubai enjoy a wide range of tax benefits that put them in a privileged position both locally and internationally. Whether you want to set up a company in the free zones or on the mainland, you will find that the tax system in Dubai is designed to support business growth and stimulate investment.
Learn about commercial licenses in Dubai
In conclusion, choosing the right business license in Dubai is a crucial step in establishing a successful and sustainable business, as Dubai offers a variety of business license options that suit all types of business activities and fields. Whether an investor is seeking to start a general, professional, industrial, or tourism business, Dubai offers a variety of licenses that allow him to operate within a regulated legal framework and under the umbrella of distinguished government support. Each type of business license carries with it specific requirements and costs that vary according to the nature of the activity and location, which makes it essential for the investor to understand these aspects before making the final decision.
The costs of issuing a business license in Dubai vary depending on several factors, such as the type of activity, the size of the company, and the location where it will be established. Free zones offer additional benefits such as full foreign ownership and tax exemptions, but they can sometimes be more expensive compared to the mainland. Despite these costs, Dubai offers a stimulating and integrated business environment that makes it easy to recoup those investments in the long run.
Itqan plays a pivotal role in facilitating the process of issuing commercial licenses in Dubai. It provides comprehensive consulting services that help investors choose the right license and ensure that all legal and administrative requirements are met at the lowest possible costs. It also contributes to simplifying procedures and reducing the time required to issue a license, allowing investors to start their commercial activities as quickly as possible and with the least complications.
With a wide variety of business licenses and facilities, Dubai remains an ideal destination for setting up businesses and investing, and with the continued support of companies like Itqan, investors can benefit from endless opportunities to succeed in Dubai’s dynamic and diverse market.
Frequently asked questions about commercial licenses in Dubai
Is the cost of a business license different in the free zones than the mainland?
Yes, the cost of a license varies by region. Free zones usually offer all-inclusive packages that include office rent and administrative services, making the cost higher than the mainland, but offering benefits such as full ownership and tax exemptions.
What are the tax benefits of business licenses in Dubai?
In free zones, investors enjoy complete exemption from corporate and income tax for up to 50 years, in addition to no taxes on profits or capital transfers.
How long does it take to get a business license in Dubai?
The process of issuing a commercial license usually takes between one week and 10 working days, depending on the completion of the required documents and procedures.
Can foreigners fully own a company in Dubai?
Yes, in the free zones foreigners can own the company 100%. In the mainland, foreigners can now own 100% of some businesses without the need for a local partner.
Are there additional requirements for certain activities?
Yes, some activities require additional licenses or permits from the relevant authorities. For example, healthcare activities require approvals from the Dubai Health Authority, and financial activities require approvals from the Dubai Financial Services Authority.
Are there any additional costs other than the license issuance fee?
Yes, some licenses may require additional costs such as office rental fees, health insurance, and trade name registration, and these costs may vary based on activity and location.
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