In 2025, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce reported that more than 70,000 new companies enrolled reflecting a growth of 3 percent compared to 2023. The statistics show how the Emirate is attracting entrepreneurs and investors from across the world. With many of these businesses engaging in commercial or trading activities, they need to obtain a commercial license.
If you are also planning for business setup in Dubai, obtaining a commercial license in Dubai is crucial. Read this blog to get a thorough understanding about commercial licenses.
Back to topWhat are the Different Types of License in Dubai?
With numerous booming opportunities in Dubai, it is important to understand the different types of license available for businesses in the Emirate. Let us look at them:
- Commercial License – For trading activities.
- Professional License – For service-based professions like medical, consultancy, legal services, and IT, among others.
- Industrial License – For manufacturing and industrial activities.
- Tourism License – For businesses in the travel and tourism industry.
What is a Commercial License?
The commercial license is an official document which permits you to import and sell products and services in the local and international market. Issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), it is unique from other types of license available in Dubai.
Back to topWhat are Some Popular Dubai Commercial License Activities?
Whether you want to start a small business in Dubai or set up a branch of an established company, you can choose from the list of permitted activities by the Dubai DED. With the help of Commitbiz experts, you can decide the business activity based on the business goals among the permitted ones. Mentioned below are few permitted activities in Dubai for having a commercial license:
- General trading (import and export of goods)
- Electronics and appliances trading
- Food and beverage business
- Real estate brokerage
- Shopping Mart or Supermarkets
- General warehousing
- Construction materials trading
- Medical equipment trading
- Cleaning services
- Cold storage services
- Restaurant management
- Self-storage services
- Surveillance services
How to Obtain a Commercial License in Dubai?
If you are an entrepreneur planning business incorporation in Dubai, learning about the involved steps is essential. Read on to know about the general steps when it comes to acquiring a commercial license in Dubai:
Step 1: Choose Business Activity
Choose a business activity from the approved list of permitted activities.
Step 2: Finalise Business Structure
Dubai offers many legal structures to businesses such as sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited liability company (LLC), private limited company, public limited company, or a branch office. You can decide the business structure based on factors like capital investment and ownership rights.
Step 3: Choose Jurisdiction
The next step is to decide the jurisdiction. You can choose to set up a business in the Dubai mainland or opt for Dubai free zone company formation.
Step 4: Decide Business Name
Decide on a unique business name which complies with Dubai DED naming conventions and is not previously registered.
Step 5: Apply for Initial Approval
The next step involves getting a no-objection certificate as part of initial approval. Commitbiz consultants can help arrange and submit necessary documents to Dubai DED or the relevant free zone authority.
Step 6: Arrange Documents
Important documents such as Memorandum of Association (MOA), board resolution, power of attorney, and certificate of incorporation among others must be arranged to avail the registration certificate along with the commercial license.
Step 7: Submit Application and Pay Fees
Finally submit the application along with the documents and pay the required fees.
Commitbiz, can be your trusted partner for availing the commercial license in Dubai in a smooth and simplified manner.
Back to topWhat is the Dubai Commercial License Renewal Process?
A commercial license in Dubai must be renewed annually. The involved renewal process is simple and must be done on time to avoid penalties. The steps include:
- Submitting the renewal application.
- Updating the tenancy agreement
- Updating any changes related to the business
- Obtain additional approvals, if needed
- Submit the required documents
- Pay the renewal fees
The commercial license cost in Dubai in case of renewal depends on the original license cost and updates being made to the business.
Back to topWhy Choose Commitbiz?
Getting a commercial license in Dubai is essential for anyone planning to engage in trading or general commercial activities. With more than 17 years of experience, Commitbiz can help entrepreneurs navigate the process in a hassle-free manner, make informed decisions, obtain commercial license and set up the business with confidence. Contact us to get started today!!
Back to topCan foreign nationals fully own a company for having a commercial license?
Yes, as per recent update to the regulations, 100 percent foreign ownership is permitted for many business activities in Dubai mainland, subject to DED guidelines.
Do I need a local sponsor for availing a Commercial License?
In most cases local sponsorship is no longer mandatory due to recent foreign ownership reforms in the UAE.
Can a business with a Commercial License sponsor employees?
Yes, businesses with a commercial license can sponsor employees. The number of visas allowed typically depends on the office size and the chosen business activity.
