Abu Dhabi is the most suitable emirate for setting up a business. However, before starting a business, it is necessary to obtain a license for trading the product selected.
A trade license is a permit granted by a government to engage in specific commercial activities. This license will help you to operate lawfully and conduct commercial operations.
Advantages of Obtaining a Trade License in Abu Dhabi
Obtaining a trade license in Abu Dhabi will provide the following advantages:
- Easily Import and Export goods to and from other nations
- Take part in numerous commercial-related activities
- Boost Local and International trade
- Improves Credibility
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Different Types of Trade Licenses in Abu Dhabi
Before applying for a DED Abu Dhabi trade license, one should know the types of trade licenses available for your business setup in Abu Dhabi.
- Professional Licenses
- Commercial or Trade License
- Industrial Licenses
- General Trading License
Note: Business operations in the Dubai mainland require a mainland license, which is issued by the Department of Economic Development. The authorities in a specific free zone grant licenses for conducting trading operations.
List of Abu Dhabi Trade License Activities
Following is the list of Abu Dhabi trade license activities:
- Import and Export of goods
- Wholesale Trading
- Retail Trading
- Legal Services
- Engineering Services
- Architectural Services
- Fabrication and Metalworking
- Printing and Publishing
- Research and Development (R&D) activities
- Exhibition and Event Management
- Sports and Recreation facilities
Steps for Obtaining a Trade License for your Business Setup in Abu Dhabi
A DED Abu Dhabi trade license can be obtained by following these basic steps.
Select a Business Name
The primary step for obtaining the license for your company formation in Abu Dhabi is choosing a company name.
Define Your Legal Structure
You must choose your company's legal structure to proceed with the incorporation process.
Define Your Business Activity
After selecting the legal structure, double-check that every activity is included under the respective license.
Complete the Application Form
The next step of the process is to fill out your application form. Once completed, submit the form to the respective authority for your initial approval.
Gather Required Documents
After that, you need to submit the following documents for approval.
- Authorized trade name certificate
- Shareholders signed licensing form
- Copies of each shareholder's passports
- A copy of the naturalization document
- Copy of your residence permit
- A letter from the authorities endorsing intended commercial operations
- A copy of your Memorandum of Association (MOA) with the sponsor
- A copy of the statement from your bank stating that the company's funds are legitimate
- A copy of your lease agreement
Submit Your Application
Submit your trade license application once you have all the necessary paperwork.
Pay Your Licensing Fees
Lastly, you must pay the licensing and issuance fees to get your license. The trade license cost in Abu Dhabi varies according to your business requirements.
In order to learn the cost in detail, contact Business Setup Worldwide. The experts at BSW will look after your company and offer solutions to any future issues the firm may have. Contact us for more information, and we'll be happy to assist you with starting a business in Abu Dhabi.