What is the cost of a trade license in Dubai? Dubai is one of the world’s most prominent investment destinations, offering a flexible business environment and attractive economic incentives for investors and entrepreneurs of various nationalities. Obtaining a trade license is one of the essential steps for establishing any business or company in Dubai, whether in the free zones or on the mainland. A trade license is not just an official document; it serves as a legal authorization that allows a company to conduct various commercial activities in the emirate. This makes understanding its costs essential for anyone seeking to establish a business in Dubai.
The cost of a trade license in Dubai varies based on several factors, including the type of business the investor wishes to pursue and the area they choose to establish their company in, whether in a free zone or other areas. Additionally, it depends on the size of the company, the number of employees, and the type of license required. There are also additional costs associated with leasing office or workspace, and the government permits required to operate the business legally.
Itqan, a specialist business setup company in Dubai, offers investors full support in understanding the costs of obtaining a commercial license that best suits their needs and investment plans. Through personalized consultations and streamlined procedures, Itqan ensures that investors obtain the license at the lowest possible cost while maintaining full compliance with local laws and regulations. The company also helps investors reduce costs by offering customized solutions, including selecting free zones that offer tax exemptions and reduced incorporation fees.
Ultimately, knowing the cost of a commercial license is a crucial step in establishing a successful business in Dubai, and Itqan ensures this step is smooth and suitable for all budgets.

What is a trade license in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the most prominent global destinations for investment and business, thanks to its advanced economic environment and advanced infrastructure, in addition to the extensive facilities it offers to investors from around the world. One of the most important steps any investor wishing to establish a business in Dubai must take is obtaining a trade license. This license is a legal authorization through which a company or organization can officially conduct commercial activities in accordance with local laws. Obtaining a trade license is key to the success of any business, as it ensures compliance with legislation and instills confidence in partners and customers.
What is a trade license in Dubai?
A trade license in Dubai is an official permit granted by the Department of Economic Development or the competent authorities in free zones. This license allows individuals and companies to conduct certain commercial activities within the emirate’s borders or within its free zones. The type of license is determined based on the business activity the business owner wishes to pursue, whether trade, services, manufacturing, or any other activity.
A trade license is one of the most important legal documents required to establish any company in Dubai. Without it, a company cannot legally operate within the country. Types of trade licenses vary depending on the type of activity being conducted, and the process of obtaining one requires submitting a set of documents, such as company details, partner names, and the type of activity to be undertaken.
Obtaining a trade license in Dubai offers numerous benefits, such as the ability to import and export goods, conclude commercial contracts, and apply for necessary visas for employees. A trade license is the legal foundation upon which the success of businesses in Dubai is built, whether on the mainland or in the free zones.
Types of Trade Licenses Available in Dubai
Dubai is a global business hub that attracts investors and businessmen of various nationalities, providing a supportive and diverse business environment that contributes to business growth and project development. One of the essential steps for any investor is choosing the appropriate type of trade license, which specifies the commercial activities the company can engage in. Types of trade licenses in Dubai vary according to the nature of the business activity, allowing investors to choose the license that best suits their goals and ambitions.
Types of Business Licenses Available in Dubai
Commercial License (General Trading): This license is issued to individuals or companies wishing to engage in general commercial activities, such as selling products and services. This license covers a wide range of activities, allowing flexibility in expanding the scope of work.
Industrial License: This license is issued to factories and companies engaged in manufacturing and producing goods. Industrial companies must submit documents detailing their production processes and equipment and must have a dedicated headquarters.
Service License: This license is issued to companies that provide services, such as consulting, programming, and design firms. Service companies must specify the type of services they will provide in their license application.
Tourism License: This license is issued to travel agencies and tourism companies that provide tourism-related services, such as organizing trips, providing tourist guides, and booking hotels.
Education License: This license is issued to educational institutions such as schools, institutes, and training centers. Obtaining this license requires meeting specific criteria related to the curriculum, facilities, and teachers. Free Zone License: This license is granted to companies wishing to operate in free zones. This license offers tax benefits and customs duty exemptions, making it a popular choice among foreign investors.
Each type of license has its own requirements and procedures for obtaining it, so it is essential for investors to choose the most appropriate license based on the nature of their business and future plans.

Trade License Validity Period
A trade license is essential for the success of any business in Dubai, granting companies and commercial entities the legal authorization to conduct business. Along with the importance of this license, questions arise about its validity period and the renewal procedures necessary to maintain legal licenses. It is essential for investors and business owners to be aware of the validity period of their trade license and renewal requirements to ensure the continuity of their business and avoid any fines or business suspension.
Trade License Validity Period
A trade license in Dubai is typically valid for one year. Trade licenses are issued by the Department of Economic Development or the relevant authorities in free zones and are valid until the specified expiration date. It is important for business owners to monitor the expiration date of their license, as timely renewal is vital to ensuring continued business operations.
The trade license renewal process requires the submission of certain documents and payment of the prescribed fees. Businesses must apply for renewal well before the license expires, as the relevant department must review and approve the application. If the license expires without renewal, the business owner may be subject to fines or even business closure until the license is renewed.
In general, maintaining a valid trade license is essential to maintaining a company’s reputation and ensuring business continuity in the market. Therefore, all investors are advised to monitor the expiration dates of their trade licenses and ensure that all necessary renewal requirements are met on time.
Learn about the trade license in Dubai
In conclusion, the cost of a trade license in Dubai is an essential part of establishing any business in the emirate. These costs vary based on several factors, including the type of business activity, the area in which the company is established, and the required volume of work. Additional costs may include government registration fees, office rental, and issuing the necessary permits. Therefore, obtaining a comprehensive understanding of these costs is an essential step for investors to ensure sound financial planning that helps them achieve commercial success.
Itqan, a leading provider of business setup services in Dubai, plays a pivotal role in helping investors determine the appropriate costs for their trade license. Through personalized advisory services and assistance throughout the registration process, Itqan ensures that investors are fully aware of potential costs and that all necessary procedures are completed smoothly. The company also offers its clients opportunities to reduce costs by proposing smart solutions, such as choosing free zones that offer tax exemptions and reduced incorporation fees. This helps reduce the financial burden on investors in the initial stages of establishing their companies.
Furthermore, Itqan is committed to providing ongoing support to investors to ensure they obtain a trade license at the lowest possible cost, according to the highest quality standards, and in compliance with local laws. This approach helps companies take advantage of the significant advantages Dubai offers as a global investment destination, while avoiding excessive costs that could impact their long-term business success.
Thanks to Itqan’s extensive experience, investors can rely on it to ensure they establish their businesses in Dubai at the lowest possible cost and with maximum efficiency. Understanding the costs and capitalizing on the opportunities available through a trade license is an important step towards achieving growth and sustainability in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Frequently Asked Questions about Business Licenses in Dubai
What is a business license in Dubai?
A business license is a legal authorization granted by the government that allows companies to legally conduct business within the emirate. The license varies depending on the type of business activity, such as trade, manufacturing, services, or education.
What are the types of business licenses available in Dubai?
Business licenses in Dubai include several types, including commercial licenses for general trade, industrial licenses for factories, service licenses for companies that provide services, and educational licenses for educational and training institutions. Costs and procedures vary depending on the type of license.
Can foreign investors own 100% of a company in Dubai?
Yes, foreign investors can own 100% of a company in free zones. In the mainland, full ownership is permitted in some activities under certain laws.
How long is a business license valid?
A business license is typically valid for one year, renewable annually. Renewal fees must be paid and legal requirements met to avoid fines or business closure.
Can any business activity be practiced with any license?
No, the type of license determines the activities that can be practiced. For example, a commercial license allows the trade of goods, while a service license allows the provision of specific services.
Does a commercial license require a physical location?
Yes, a physical location is required for the company, whether an office or a warehouse, depending on the type of activity. Flexible office leasing options are available in free zones.
What are the tax benefits for companies holding a commercial license in free zones?
Companies in free zones enjoy tax exemptions, including exemption from corporate and personal income taxes, and customs exemptions on imports and exports.