How to Obtain a Trade License for your Business in Abu Dhabi?

by Zaara 07, Aug 2020

Abu Dhabi, is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is located on the Persian Arabian Gulf's mainland. It is both the Middle East's fastest-growing and most stable market. Commercial and industrial enterprises call Abu Dhabi home. It is great for entrepreneurs looking to start a successful business in Abu Dhabi. 

The method for establishing a business in Abu Dhabi is extremely flexible and open. This is one of the numerous reasons why company owners pay attention to Abu Dhabi.

Obtaining a trade license in Abu Dhabi is one of the first steps in establishing a business. One cannot legally start a business without a business license. Let us understand the things involved and the method of receiving one.

Abu Dhabi Trade License is not the only Type of License in Abu Dhabi

Let's See the Different Types

Industrial License - Industrial Licenses are awarded to owners of companies of any type that manufacture items for profit. For example, company formation in Industrial City - Abu Dhabi can be an ideal option for starting your industrial business.

Professional License - Professional Licenses are given to those whose jobs rely on their mental powers, intellectual ability, academic performance, and scientific abilities.

Commercial License - Commercial licenses are provided to the proprietors of firms that engage in activities such as general trading, contracting, real estate, transportation, and healthcare. In general, setting up a commercial business in the UAE requires a commercial license.

The Department responsible for providing a business license is determined by the sort of commercial activity that your company engages in. Business licenses are obtained through the Department of Economic Development, the Department of Culture and Tourism, the Higher Corporation for Specialized Economic Zones, and free zone authorities such as Masdar and the Media Zone Authority.

Procedure to Start a Trade Business and Obtain AbuDhabi Trade License

Business set up in Abu Dhabi, requires the below-indicated process to be followed in order to fulfill the legal requirements of all pertinent government bodies and to provide optimum economic advantages for the businessperson.

Choose the Category

Determine which category your company belongs to: industrial, commercial, or professional.

Select Business Activities

Determine which business activities should be included in each business license (maximum 10 per license)

Trade Name

Choose a suitable trading name for the firm. Make sure you follow the protocols

Initial Approval

Submit the application form to the Department for preliminary approval.

After gaining initial assistance, register a trading name (if you do not already have a company name reserved).

Office Space

Lease commercial space and seek permission from the Authority

Documentation

Prepare the necessary paperwork, such as the Memorandum of Association and clearances from any relevant government bodies that may be required in each circumstance.

Get your License

To get the final license, submit a new application to the Department and pay the fees.

Documents Required to Get Trade License in Abu Dhabi

The legislative requirements and circumstances for getting a business license differ based on the type of operation. The steps of licensing can be summarised as follows:

  • Trade name reservation

  • Abu Dhabi's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs supports an investment visa.

  • Specifying the sort of economic activity and securing permission from the appropriate authorities

  • Inspecting the business's premises and issuing a preliminary approval

  • Giving final approval

  • Having to pay the fees

  • Requesting and gaining membership in the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry 

  • Obtaining a business card from both the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs- Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Trade License Fees

Abu Dhabi trade license fees depend on the location, the business activity, etc. In general, the package starts from AED 10000.

Trade License Renewal Abu Dhabi

Trade license Renewal in Abu Dhabi is a mandate to continue one's business. When it comes time to renew your Abu Dhabi trade license, you can, if necessary, modify your sponsor and company address. 

Commitbiz provides comprehensive support in renewing your trade license in whatever way you require. We will email you reminders when it is time to renew your license.
Commitbiz will work with you from start to end to manage your business establishment in the UAE. To learn more, please contact us immediately.

FAQs

How many activities can an Abu Dhabi trade license have?

A trade license in Abu Dhabi can hold a maximum of 10 activities.

How long is a trade license valid in Abu Dhabi?

A trade license is valid for 1 year and later requires renewal.

How much does a trade license in Abu Dhabi cost?

Abu Dhabi trade license fees depend on the location, activity, etc. It generally starts from 1000 AED.

How long will it take to obtain a trade license in Abu Dhabi?

It takes up to 2 to 3 business days. Now there is scope for an instant license also.

Can I get a trade license in Abu Dhabi instantly?

Yes, the nation has provided a facility to get your business license instantly with an initiative of ‘instant license’.