Commercial License in UAE | Start Your Trading Business in Dubai & UAE

Overview

A Commercial License in UAE | Start Your Trading Business in Dubai & UAE in the UAE is the key to starting a trading business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. It allows companies to buy, sell, import, export, and distribute goods and products both locally and internationally. Whether you’re launching an e-commerce platform, retail store, or import-export firm, this license gives you full legal authority to operate and trade under UAE law.

Key Features of a Commercial License

A UAE Commercial License offers flexibility, scalability, and legitimacy to businesses. Here are the key features:

  • Covers Trading Activities: Allows the company to trade goods and services within the UAE or internationally.
  • Multiple Activities Under One License: You can include up to 10 related business activities under one commercial license (depending on jurisdiction).
  • Applicable to Different Jurisdictions: Available for both Mainland (issued by the Department of Economic Development – DED) and Free Zones (issued by respective free zone authorities).
  • Local and Global Operations: Enables import/export activities, warehousing, and product distribution.

Eligibility for Visas and Bank Accounts: Essential for obtaining investor and employee visas, opening a corporate bank account, and signing legal contracts.

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    Purpose of a Commercial License

    A commercial license defines your trading activities and ensures compliance with UAE business regulations. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations looking to expand into the GCC and global markets through the UAE’s strong trade infrastructure.

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    Activities Covered Under a Commercial License

    The UAE’s commercial license covers a wide range of activities — from product trading to logistics and distribution. Multiple activities can be listed under a single license.

    General Trading

    • Import/export of various goods
    • Wholesale and retail trading
    • Re-export and distribution
    • Multi-category product trading

    Specific Product Trading

    • Textiles and garments
    • Electronics and mobile devices
    • Food, beverages, and packaged goods
    • Perfumes, cosmetics, and skincare
    • Furniture and household items
    • Construction materials and equipment

    Jewelry and luxury items

    E-Commerce and Online Retail

    • Online selling and dropshipping
    • Marketplace operations and digital storefronts

    Real Estate and Property Trading

    • Property sales, leasing, and brokerage (with approval)

    Import and Export

    • Customs clearance and freight forwarding
    • International trade and logistics

    Vehicle and Equipment Trading

    • Cars, spare parts, heavy machinery, and equipment rentals

    Benefits of a Commercial License

    • ✅ Legal authorization to trade in UAE and globally
    • 🌍 100% foreign ownership (in approved sectors)
    • 💼 Add multiple trading activities under one license
    • 🏦 Access to UAE corporate banking and credit facilities
    • 💰 Tax advantages and profit repatriation
    • 📦 Eligibility for warehousing, logistics, and distribution
    • 👨‍💼 Obtain investor and employee visas easily
    • 🔒 Enhance brand credibility and market trust

    Documents Required

    • Passport copies of shareholders
    • Trade name reservation certificate
    • Initial approval from DED or free zone
    • Memorandum of Association (MOA)
    • Tenancy contract (Ejari for mainland)
    • NOC (if applicable)
    • Payment receipt of government fees

    Steps to Get a Commercial License in UAE

    • Choose your business activity (up to 10 related activities)
    • Select jurisdiction – Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore
    • Reserve a trade name approved by authorities
    • Get initial approval from the DED or Free Zone authority
    • Prepare legal documents (MOA, tenancy contract)
    • Submit your application and pay government fees

    Cost of a Commercial License

    The cost of obtaining a commercial license in the UAE typically ranges between:

    • Mainland: AED 10,000 – 25,000
    • Free Zone: AED 12,000 – 20,000

    License Renewal

    A commercial license must be renewed annually.
     You’ll need a valid tenancy contract (Ejari), updated trade documents, and payment of renewal fees to keep your license active.

     

    Why Choose the UAE for Trading

    • Strategic location connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe
    • World-class logistics and transport network
    • 0% corporate tax (in many free zones)
    • Simple company formation process
    • 100% foreign ownership in multiple sectors

     

    FAQ’s

    A Commercial License in Dubai is an official permit that allows businesses to buy, sell, trade, or distribute goods and commodities legally in the UAE and abroad.

    Anyone involved in trading physical goods — like electronics, fashion, food, or equipment — needs a commercial license to operate legally.

    It covers import/export, retail, wholesale, e-commerce, logistics, and distribution of products across various industries.

    You apply through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) or a free zone authority, depending on your business location.

    The average cost ranges between AED 10,000 to AED 25,000, depending on business activities, office space, and jurisdiction.

    Yes, foreigners can now own 100% of their company in many business sectors in Dubai.

    A Commercial License is for trading goods, while a Professional License is for offering services or consultancy.

    It usually takes 3 to 7 working days to obtain a commercial license once all documents are submitted.

    Yes, you can include up to 10 related trading activities under a single commercial license.

    You’ll need passport copies, trade name approval, initial approval, tenancy contract, and a Memorandum of Association (MOA)