
25 Mar Commercial licenses in the UAE
Commercial licenses in the Emirates There are many of those commercial licenses that exist in the Emirates, and these commercial licenses are of interest to many of these merchants and businessmen who want to practice their commercial activity in the Emirates. There are many of those commercial licenses that must be known in advance in the Emirates so that you can You practice any commercial activity, and the types of commercial licenses include those that pertain to commercial activities, as well as those pertaining to industrial activities, professional activities, and tourism activities.

Commercial licenses in the UAE
Commercial license in the UAE
In order to be able to practice any commercial activity in the Emirates, you must first know the commercial license in Dubai and its different types. In the event that you want to practice any type of commercial project that can be practiced in the Emirates, in this case you must send an email to the website for the classification. Activities, with a clear statement of your commercial activity that you want to practice so that you can obtain a license for it from the body responsible for issuing these licenses.
However, the Licensing Department, as well as the Commercial Registration Department, have provided many quick services by launching this initiative called the Instant License, which can make businessmen obtain that license very quickly and within a time not exceeding five minutes as well, and after that It is possible for all partners to come to these specialized centers to obtain the license in order to obtain this license.
Types of commercial licenses that can be practiced in the Emirates
The UAE provides a convenient and flexible business environment for investors by providing commercial licenses that allow companies and individuals to start and operate businesses efficiently. Commercial licenses in Dubai vary in type and requirements, including industrial, commercial, and service licenses, with the possibility of choosing between an individual license or a limited company. Commercial licenses in the UAE provide the opportunity for investors to choose the appropriate structure and begin implementing business strategies easily, which enhances the possibility of achieving success in the local and global business environment. There are several types of commercial licenses in the United Arab Emirates that companies can exercise, including:
- Commercial License: Allows companies to engage in general commercial activities such as retail, wholesale, distribution, and services.
- Industrial License: Allows companies to carry out industrial and manufacturing activities.
- Professional License: Allows individuals practicing professional and technical professions, such as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and accountants, to practice their activities independently or as small companies.
- E-commerce License: Allows companies to transact business over the Internet and create e-commerce platforms.
- Tourism and Travel License: Allows companies to provide travel and tourism services, such as tourism agencies, hotels, and tourism-related companies.
- Professional Service License: Allows companies to provide consulting and professional services such as legal, financial, and marketing consulting.
- Media and Advertising License: Allows companies to provide media and advertising services such as newspapers, magazines and media production.
Cost of a commercial license in the UAE Free Zone
The cost of obtaining a business license in a free zone in the United Arab Emirates varies between the different free zones in the Emirates and depends on several factors, such as the type of business activity, the size of the company, and its specific requirements. The costs of a business license in a free zone in the UAE usually include the following items:
- Licensing Costs: Licensing fees are one of the major factors in the cost of obtaining a business license. These fees vary according to the type of business and category of company.
- Office and space costs: You may need to rent an office or space in the free zone. Rental costs vary based on the size of the space, its location, and the amenities offered.
- Labor cost: You may need to hire employees to run the company. Labor costs include wages, social benefits, and health and other insurance costs.
- Additional Services Fees: You may need additional services such as bank accounts, legal advice, marketing and advertising. The costs of these services vary depending on the provider and the scope of services provided.

Procedures for establishing a company in the Emirates
Procedures for establishing a company in the Emirates
Establishing a company in the Emirates , especially in Dubai, is considered a strategic step towards success in the business world, as Dubai has a developed business environment and encouraging investment laws that attract investors from all over the world. Thanks to advanced infrastructure, financial incentives, and transparent legal regulation, startups and medium-sized companies in Dubai can achieve sustainable success and a strong presence in the local and global market.
Here are general steps for establishing a company in the UAE. Please note that these guidelines are general, and specific procedures may vary depending on the type of company, geographic region, and local regulations. It is recommended to consult with Itqan Company experts to obtain updated and accurate information.
- Determine the type of company: Before starting the establishment procedures, you must determine the type of company you wish to establish, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a public joint stock company (PJSC), a private joint stock company (PSC), or a free zone company. .
- Company Name: Select a company name that complies with local regulations. The name must be verified and registered with the relevant authorities.
- Licensing: Obtain the necessary licenses for the company’s activity from the competent authorities, and this may include local government agencies and regulatory bodies.
- Partners and shareholders: Identify the partners or shareholders in the company and determine their shares and financial contribution percentages.
- Articles of Association: Prepare and sign the Articles of Association and necessary agreements between partners and shareholders, and ensure compliance with legal and legal requirements.
- Registration and licensing: Submit a registration and licensing application with the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the emirate in which you wish to establish the company.
- Legal and Accounting Office: Appoint a legal and accounting office to help you comply with local legislation and implement necessary procedures.
Investment costs in the UAE
Investment costs in the UAE vary based on several factors, including the type of business, investment location, company size, and legal and regulatory requirements. However, here are some general points to keep in mind:
- License fees: Obtaining commercial and professional licenses requires paying license fees to the relevant authorities such as the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other government agencies. The amount of this fee varies based on the type of license and location.
- Required capital: In some cases, obtaining a business license in the UAE requires a specific capital. The amounts required vary depending on the type of business and location.
- Rent and office costs: You should take into account the costs of renting an office or commercial space, which can vary significantly between different regions and locations.
- Labor and visas: If you plan to hire labor, you must take into account recruitment costs, salaries, visa costs and accommodation for employees.
- Taxes and fees: Companies in the UAE are subject to a specific tax regime, and there may be additional fees such as value-added tax.
Conditions for establishing a company in the Emirates
Establishing a company in the UAE requires compliance with certain legal and regulatory conditions and requirements. Here is an overview of some basic conditions:
- Local partners: In the case of public trading companies, private companies and limited liability companies, the law requires a local partner who owns a certain percentage of capital. This partner can be a UAE national or a company wholly owned by UAE nationals.
- Required capital: Obtaining a company license in the UAE may require a specific capital. The amount required varies depending on the type of company, business activity, and location of incorporation.
- Choosing a business activity: The company activity to be practiced must be determined, and it must be compatible with the permits and licenses available in the emirate in which you wish to establish the company.
- Company name: The company name must be specified that does not conflict with the names of other companies already existing in the Emirates, and must comply with local regulations and laws.
- Governmental Bodies Licenses: The necessary licenses must be obtained from the relevant government agencies such as the Department of Economic Development (DED), the Ministry of Economy and other competent authorities according to the type of business activity.
- Contracts and legal documents: The required contracts and legal documents such as partnership contracts and articles of association must be prepared and documented.
How to invest in the Emirates
Investing in the UAE represents an important opportunity for investors due to the thriving economic environment and encouraging government policies. The UAE is characterized by political and economic stability, and offers a wide range of future sectors such as technology and renewable energy. In addition, tax incentives and banking facilities provide an ideal investment environment that attracts investors from all over the world. There are several ways to invest in the UAE , and here are some basic steps to start the investment process:
- Setting a goal and strategy: Before starting to invest, you must determine the financial goal you want to achieve and develop an investment strategy that suits your financial goals and risk tolerance.
- Research and Analysis: Conduct extensive research on investment opportunities in the UAE, whether in real estate, stocks, startup businesses, investment funds, or others. Analyze the market and evaluate the potential returns and risks associated with each investment opportunity.
- Collaborating with a financial advisor: It can be beneficial to cooperate with a financial advisor or expert in investing in the UAE. The advisor will be able to provide professional advice and help you make informed investment decisions based on your individual financial objectives and circumstances.
- Law and Regulations: Before starting any investment activity, you must check the laws and regulations related to the type of investment you wish to make in the UAE. Ensure compliance with necessary licenses, permits, tax obligations and other financial laws.
- Collaboration with local partners: In some cases, you may need to cooperate with local partners to establish a company or invest in some sectors. Find trusted partners who are experienced in the field you are interested in.
Our company’s role in simplifying commercial licenses in the Emirates
In conclusion, business licenses in the UAE are an essential key to establishing and operating a business in the country. Business licenses require compliance with a set of legal and regulatory conditions and requirements that vary depending on the type of company and the business activity in which it specializes.
By adhering to the specified conditions and obtaining the necessary licenses from the relevant regulatory authorities, companies can operate legally and stably in the UAE and benefit from the business opportunities available in the country.
In the UAE, there are many bodies and institutions responsible for granting commercial licenses and issuing permits, such as the Department of Economic Development (DED), the Ministry of Economy, the General Authority for Investment and Industrial Development (ADDED), and other government bodies.
By complying with local laws and regulations and collaborating with Itqan’s financial and legal advisors, investors can benefit from a supportive and open business environment in the UAE and achieve sustainable success in the market.
Frequently asked questions about commercial licenses in the UAE:
What types of business licenses are available in the UAE?
Types of business licenses in the UAE include local companies (LLC), sole proprietorships, international companies, companies in free zones, and personal and professional companies.
What are the approximate costs of obtaining a business license in the UAE?
The cost of business licenses in the UAE varies depending on the type of license and business activity, and includes government fees, licensing fees, and certificates.
Can I own and operate a company in the UAE as a foreigner?
Yes, foreigners can own and operate companies in free zones in the UAE with an ownership percentage of up to 100%, according to local regulations.
What are the basic steps to obtain a commercial license in the UAE?
The steps include choosing the type of company, registering with the Department of Economic Development or the relevant authority, defining the business activity, submitting the required documents, and paying the relevant fees.
Is there an annual cost to renew a work license in the UAE?
Yes, the business license must be renewed annually in the UAE, and fees may vary depending on the type of activity and the type of company.
Is it possible to transfer a company license from one emirate to another in the Emirates?
Yes, the company’s license can be transferred between the emirates, but this is subject to the approval of the competent authorities and the fulfillment of the required conditions.
Can I cancel the company’s license in the UAE?
Yes, the company’s license can be canceled after completing the required procedures, paying the relevant fees, and settling the remaining financial obligations.