Do you want to start a trading company in the Middle East? Dubai can be a perfect destination. There are certain benefits, like easy import and export of products, which enable you to grow your trading business in the Emirate.
To conduct the trading business, you must avail a commercial license in Dubai. Read this article to learn about the requirements and other aspects related to the legal document.
What is a Commercial License?
A commercial license is a legal document that allows trading of goods and services. Having the licence enables you to trade products worldwide. A commercial licence in Dubai is required to carry out a variety of business operations.
Business Activities Permitted for Having a Commercial License
The Department of Economic Development (DED) permits you to conduct numerous business activities. Some of them include advertising, cleaning services, financial services, import and export, restaurant management, and surveillance services.
Process to Obtain Commercial License in Dubai
If you want to procure a commercial license in Dubai, you must follow the process mentioned below:
Select Jurisdiction
The initial step is to determine the jurisdiction where you want to set up your business. Dubai free zones and the mainland are the two available jurisdictions in the Emirate.
Choose Business Activity
Finalise the business activity you wish to conduct in Dubai among the available options.
Finalise a Legal Structure
Select the appropriate company structure based on your business requirements. Some of the available options include sole establishment, holding company, free zone company and limited liability company in Dubai.
Select Trade Name
Choose a trade name for the business by adhering to the Dubai government rules and regulations. It must be unique and reflect the business activity.
Submit Documents
Prepare all the necessary documents and submit them to the Department of Economic Development (DED) authorities to obtain the license. Based on the business activity, you may need to receive additional approval from other government authorities.
Pay the Fee
Once the documentation process is completed, you must make the payment of the requisite fee. The authority will provide the commercial license within the next few days.
Documents to Submit for Availing the License
You have to submit certain documents to avail the commercial license in Dubai. Some of them include:
- Completed application form
- Two (2) coloured passport-size photo
- Passport copy of the shareholders and directors
Benefits of Obtaining a Dubai Commercial License
There are several benefits of availing a commercial license in Dubai. Check out some of the benefits here:
- You can conduct up to ten business activities.
- You can engage in the import and export of goods.
- The process of availing of a commercial license in Dubai is easier than that of other legal documents.
- To renew, trading companies operating under a commercial licence are exempt from audit requirements.
- You can hire foreign workers and sponsor their visas if you have an office space.
Why Choose BSW?
If you are an entrepreneur, investor, or business owner and want to start a company in Dubai, ensure you possess the relevant license. Get assistance from Business Setup Worldwide experts in that regard. Our professionals are experienced and can assist you in business registration, getting approvals, and acquiring licenses and permits in Dubai, among other business-related services. Contact us and get started today.

