How to Get a Trade License in Dubai: Requirements & Process in 2025
If you’re planning to start a business in the UAE, understanding how to get a trade license in Dubai is one of the most important steps. Whether you’re setting up in the mainland or a free zone, this license is your legal gateway to operate in the region.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the types of trade licenses, their requirements, and the application process — all while keeping the process clear and affordable.
✅ What Is a Trade License in Dubai?
A trade license is a legal document issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a relevant free zone authority, allowing individuals or companies to conduct business activities in Dubai.
There are four main types of trade licenses:
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Commercial License – For trading activities
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Industrial License – For manufacturing and production
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Professional License – For service-based or consultancy activities
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Tourism License – For travel and hospitality businesses
🔗 Link to DED Dubai’s official site for the latest license classifications.
📌 Why Is a Trade License Necessary?
Without a valid trade license, your business cannot:
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Sign contracts legally
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Rent office space
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Open a business bank account
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Operate within compliance laws
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Apply for employee visas
Having the right license ensures your business runs legally and efficiently in the UAE.
📝 How to Get a Trade License in Dubai – Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choose Your Business Activity
To start, select your desired business activity from the DED list. You can choose multiple activities under one license — depending on the category.
Click Here for “Top Low-Cost Business Ideas in Dubai” here for inspiration.
2. Decide Mainland or Free Zone Jurisdiction
Your business model will determine whether to set up:
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Mainland (via DED): Operate freely across UAE
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Free Zone (via zone authority): Enjoy benefits like 100% foreign ownership, no corporate tax, etc.
🔗 “UAE Free Zone vs Mainland Business Setup: Which One is Right for You?”
3. Register Your Trade Name
Submit at least three name options to the licensing authority. Avoid names that are religious, political, or already taken.
✅ Your trade name must reflect your business activity and follow UAE naming rules.
4. Apply for Initial Approval
Initial approval means the government has no objection to you starting a business. You’ll need:
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Passport copy of shareholders
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Business plan (for some activities)
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Proof of residence (in some cases)
5. Finalize Office Space or Virtual Office
You’ll need to provide a tenancy contract (Ejari) or a virtual office agreement, depending on the jurisdiction.
💡 Tip: Free zones often offer flexible desk or smart office options for startups.
6. Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Once all the documents are in order, submit them along with your payment to DED (for mainland) or the relevant free zone.
📄 Documents typically required:
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Passport copies of shareholders
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Visa copies (if applicable)
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Initial approval certificate
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Trade name reservation
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Tenancy contract or office lease
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NOC from current sponsor (if on employment visa)
💰 Average cost of trade license: AED 12,000 to AED 25,000 depending on business activity and location.
7. Get Your Trade License Issued
Once approved, you’ll receive your official Dubai Trade License and can proceed with visa processing, bank account opening, and operations.
🔗 Learn More About: Business Setup Services in UAE
🛡️ What Happens If You Don’t Get a License?
Operating a business without a valid license can lead to:
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Fines up to AED 50,000
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Business closure
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Visa cancellation
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Blacklisting by authorities
Stay compliant, and protect your business from unnecessary legal trouble.
🤝 How Top Next Consultants Can Help
At Top Next Consultants, we take care of the entire process — from choosing the right license to securing approvals, without the stress or delays.
We offer:
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Free initial consultation
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Documentation and PRO services
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DED and Free Zone setup support
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Ongoing compliance guidance
📞 Get in touch or call us to get started.
✅ Conclusion
Now that you understand how to get a trade license in Dubai, you’re one step closer to launching your dream venture in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
With the right support, the process becomes not just easier — but also faster, more cost-effective, and fully compliant.
📝 Ready to start? Contact Top Next Consultants today!
Top Next Consultants
+971 52 9227960