Starting a business in Dubai? Then your journey begins with one critical document your trade license. Without it, you can’t legally operate, advertise, or hire staff. Whether you’re launching a new venture, renewing an existing license, or expanding to a new business activity, Al Fady Business Setup is your expert partner in handling every step efficiently and legally.
With over 10 years of experience in trade license issuance and renewal, our consultants help you avoid delays, fines, and rejections, while keeping your business 100% compliant with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and other Free Zone authorities.
🏙️ What Is a Trade License in Dubai?
A trade license is the official legal document that allows individuals or companies to conduct business in the UAE. It defines your activity, structure, and operational jurisdiction.
Whether you’re a local startup, global investor, or freelancer, your license type determines your scope of operations in Dubai.
📂 Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai
Here’s a breakdown of the main trade licenses you can apply for:
| License Type | Purpose | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial License | Trading & retail | Import/export, e-commerce, general trading |
| Professional License | Service-based | Consultancy, marketing, IT services |
| Industrial License | Manufacturing | Factories, food processing, goods production |
| Tourism License | Travel & hospitality | Tour operators, travel agencies |
| Freelance License | Solo professionals | Designers, writers, developers (Free Zones) |
🟢 100% foreign ownership is now allowed for most activities in both Free Zone and Mainland areas.
⚙️ Trade License Application Process in Dubai
Getting your trade license in Dubai involves multiple steps, but don’t worry Al Fady handles everything for you.
✅ Step-by-Step Breakdown:
- Select your business activity (must match with DED or Free Zone list)
- Choose legal structure – LLC, Sole Proprietorship, Free Zone FZ-LLC, etc.
- Reserve your company name
- Submit initial approval request to relevant authority
- Prepare & notarize documents (MOA, LSA if required)
- Secure an office/retail space and register Ejari
- Submit license application
- Receive your trade license
⏱️ Processing Time: 3–7 working days (mainland or Free Zone)
💬 Let us do the paperwork while you focus on launching your business.
🔁 Dubai Trade License Renewal – Don’t Risk Penalties
Trade licenses in Dubai must be renewed annually. Failure to do so may result in:
- ❌ Business suspension
- ❌ Employee visa cancellation
- ❌ Late penalties (AED 200+ per month)
- ❌ Legal action from authorities
We offer automated reminders, document support, and PRO services to ensure your license is renewed on time, every time.
📌 Documents required for renewal:
- Valid Ejari (tenancy contract)
- BR/1 form
- Copy of current trade license
- Passport copies of partners
- Emirates ID
Need help renewing? Click here to schedule your renewal now.
🧾 What Is the Cost of a Trade License in Dubai?
The cost varies depending on your location, license type, number of visas, and business activity.
| License Type | Mainland (AED) | Free Zone (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial License | 12,000–25,000 | 8,000–18,000 |
| Professional License | 9,000–18,000 | 7,000–15,000 |
| Freelance Permit | Not applicable | 6,000–10,000 |
💡 Al Fady provides transparent, all-inclusive pricing packages tailored to your goals.
🤝 Need a Local Sponsor or PRO Services?
For some mainland activities, a Local Service Agent (LSA) or Corporate Sponsor may still be required. We provide:
- ✅ Reliable Emirati sponsorship
- ✅ 100% transparent contracts
- ✅ Corporate sponsorship for added flexibility
- ✅ PRO services for all government transactions
🎯 If you’re unsure whether your business requires a sponsor or not, we’ll advise you on the most cost-effective and legally compliant structure.
💼 Our Trade License & PRO Services Include:
✔️ New license registration
✔️ Trade name approval
✔️ MOA & LSA drafting
✔️ Ejari support
✔️ Bank account opening
✔️ Employee visa processing
✔️ Document translation & attestation
✔️ License renewal & amendment
✔️ Local sponsorship agreements
✔️ Smart Government services
💼 View our complete services here
📍 GEO Targeting: We Serve All Over Dubai
Our office is based in the heart of Al Barsha First, and we serve clients across:
- Business Bay
- Downtown Dubai
- Deira
- Al Qusais
- Dubai Silicon Oasis
- JLT & Marina
- Al Quoz
- International City
- Sheikh Zayed Road
…and all major Free Zones & Mainland jurisdictions.
📌 Want to visit us? Here’s our full address:
Al Fady Business Setup
Office 1205, Yes Business Tower, Al Barsha First, Dubai, UAE
🙋 FAQ: Trade License in Dubai
Q1: How long does it take to get a trade license in Dubai?
Typically 3 to 7 working days, depending on the activity and authority.
Q2: Can I own 100% of my Dubai business as an expat?
Yes. Most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership under new laws.
Q3: Do I need a physical office to get a trade license?
Yes, especially for mainland businesses. Free Zones may offer flexi-desk solutions.
Q4: What happens if I don’t renew my license?
Fines, business suspension, and visa issues. We help you avoid all of that.
Q5: Can Al Fady help with Free Zone and Mainland licenses?
Absolutely. We work with all major jurisdictions and handle everything from start to finish.
📞 Ready to Get or Renew Your Trade License in Dubai?
Let Al Fady Business Setup take the stress out of government procedures. Whether it’s your first license or an annual renewal, we make it fast, affordable, and 100% compliant.
📍 Visit us: Office 1205, Yes Business Tower, Al Barsha First, Dubai
📞 Call us: +971 55 886 6931
📧 Email: supremepro7@gmail.com