UAE Trade License

Trade License in Dubai

Do you need to obtain trade license in Dubai? Put your business on a seamless path to success with a general trading license in UAE. Streamline your general trade business through optimal structures with the help of KWS ME.

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Importance of Trading License in UAE

Significance of Trading License in Dubai

The city has been the hub of international trade in the region. It has attracted investors from all around the world & the authorities have made sure their regulations and processes are streamlined and ready to take on the challenge of dealing with the influx of investments in to different industries from all over the world.

The authorities have a way of handling things and the business environment that Dubai has was possible only due to the way the country has organized itself to handle everything through due process. To run your own business in Dubai, you must have a valid trade license by the Department of Economic Development. The Department for Economic Development also deals with local and foreign investors.

Entrepreneurs wishing to incorporate or own business setup in Dubai face certain hurdles. KWS ME provides with required and viable solutions to these entrepreneurs and investors.

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General Trade License in UAE

Steps to get General Trade License in Dubai

Follow the steps below to obtain a trade license so that you can operate your business setup.

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    Procedure to acquire Dubai Business License

    Process to obtain Business License in Dubai

    Reserve a name for your company and apply for registration

    For your company to incorporated or registered, you are required to submit a company registration in Dubai application in which you have to obtain initial approvals from the License Issuing Section of the Department of Economic Development.

    The department will sanction your business activities, the name of your business, and verify the identity of the people holding a legitimate stake in the company. At DED, company name must be available to be chosen and reserved. A payment is required, which can be made online on the official website of the Department of Economic Development.

    Notarize the company’s Memorandum of Association (MOA)

    You have to complete notarization of the Memorandum of Association from the Department of Economic Development for obtaining a trade license. The process does not take too long and might even be completed in a day.

    The lawyer for the applicant takes the initial approval from the notary earlier so as to save the applicant’s time when he arrives to get his documents notarized on time.

    File company documents with the authority

    The investor or the entrepreneur needs to submit company’s documents to the Department of Economic Development and obtain a trade license. After this step is complete, he must apply for membership of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). For a Trade License and Commercial Registration Certificate to be issued, the applying investor has to make submission of the following original documents at the Commercial Registry section of DED. Applicants can also make this submission of original documents online as well.

    After the submission of required documents, the Commercial Registry decides whether or not the documents are valid, sans legal or other discrepancies, and in proper order. Then the name of the company is formally entered into the Commercial Register.

    Set up business as a representative or branch office

    Foreign companies which want to setup a branch office in Dubai is now 100% owned by the foreigner. In such a case, the company has to be 100% owned by a UAE national or a local UAE national is appointed as an agent of the company.

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    Clients Reviews

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    Perrie Wilson profile picturePerrie Wilson
    08:35 06 Nov 25
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding Experience with KWS Middle East!

    I had an amazing experience with KWS Middle East during my freezone company formation, visa and residency process. From start to finish, Khyati Vyas and her team were absolutely incredible.

    Khyati guided me through every step with professionalism, clarity and genuine care. She was always available to answer my questions and made the entire process smooth, stress-free and efficient. The whole KWS team worked seamlessly to ensure all documentation and procedures were completed on time and without any issues.

    Their expertise, transparency and commitment to helping clients is outstanding. What could have been a complicated journey was made effortless thanks to their support.

    I’m truly grateful for everything they did. I’m now fully set up and ready to move forward with confidence.

    I highly recommend KWS Middle East to anyone looking for trustworthy and professional business setup services in the UAE!
    ביולה נאנד profile pictureביולה נאנד
    20:30 05 Nov 25
    We had an excellent experience working with Mr. Sharjeel from KWS Middle East for setting up our company in Dubai. He was extremely professional, responsive, and supportive throughout the entire process.
    Sharjeel made sure everything was handled smoothly — always following up, answering our questions quickly, and keeping us updated at every stage. His help made what could have been a complex process feel simple and stress-free.
    Highly recommend KWS Middle East and especially Mr. Sharjeel for anyone starting a business in the UAE!
    Abdulhamit Bolat profile pictureAbdulhamit Bolat
    08:13 08 Oct 25
    Many thanks to the entire KWS Middle East team. I was truly surprised at how straightforward and simple everything was. From the company formation to the personal support at important appointments regarding the visa. My special thanks also go to Mr. Casano, who addressed my questions and uncertainties in a very professional manner. For me, it is certain that I will continue to rely on the support of KWS Middle East throughout my entrepreneurial journey in Dubai. An absolute recommendation when it comes to business consulting.
    Hashim Alvi profile pictureHashim Alvi
    16:38 29 Sep 25
    I had such a smooth and stress-free experience with KWS for my work. From day one, Mr Abdullah was incredibly professional and knowledgeable. He explained everything in simple terms, guided me step by step, and always took the time to answer my questions without rushing me.

    I also want to mention Mr Ali, his assistant, who was super responsive and always on top of the paperwork and follow-ups. Both Abdullah and Ali really went out of their way to make sure everything was handled properly.

    What I appreciated the most was their honesty and the personal attention they gave me, it honestly felt like they genuinely cared about helping, not just “getting the job done.” Thanks to them, the whole process was completed smoothly and right on time.

    I’d happily recommend Abdullah and his team to anyone who wants reliable, trustworthy, and hassle-free services. They truly deserve more than 5 stars!
    Kamran Sikandar profile pictureKamran Sikandar
    09:33 29 Sep 25
    With Sana's exceptional assistance, I successfully obtained my license and opened my bank account. She provided guidance every step of the way, ensuring the entire process was straightforward and effortless. I'm really grateful to Sana for her support and expertise; she's very professional.
    Sathik Janvi profile pictureSathik Janvi
    08:50 29 Sep 25
    I successfully obtained my crypto license with the help of Hasan and KWS Middle East. They guided me through every step, ensuring full compliance with AML regulations, financial approvals, and fintech requirements. The team was professional, efficient, and made the entire process seamless. Highly recommended for anyone looking to set up a crypto or fintech business in the UAE.
    Faizan Chattha profile pictureFaizan Chattha
    08:45 29 Sep 25
    I have set up my Garments Trading business in Ajman Mainland with the support of Sana. She guided me throughout the entire journey and was always responsive to my concerns and questions. The whole process was smooth and hassle-free.
    I highly recommend Sana and KWS Middle East to anyone looking to start their business in the UAE.
    Akhil Goyal profile pictureAkhil Goyal
    06:03 29 Sep 25
    I had an excellent experience working with Hasan and the team at KWS Middle East for obtaining my crypto license. From start to finish, they provided expert guidance on all aspects of the process, including financial approvals, AML compliance, and fintech regulatory requirements.

    Their professionalism, attention to detail, and deep understanding of the UAE regulatory environment made the entire process seamless and stress-free. Thanks to Hasan and KWSME, I was able to successfully launch my business in the crypto and fintech space without any hurdles.

    Highly recommended for anyone looking for business setup, crypto licenses, AML compliance, or fintech approvals in the UAE!
    Azimullah John profile pictureAzimullah John
    14:18 18 Aug 25
    I recently opened my Investment Holding Company in the UAE with Hasan from KWS Middle East, and I must say the experience was nothing short of exceptional.

    Due to an unfortunate mistake, I entered the UAE using my old passport, which could have turned into a very complicated situation. Hasan personally stepped in, went above and beyond—he took me to the airport, resolved the issue, arranged a VIP medical, and even dropped me home. Thanks to his dedication and hands-on support, everything was sorted smoothly.

    Within just 18 days, I had my Trade License and Emirates ID in hand. I couldn’t be happier with Hasan’s commitment and professionalism. Truly grateful for his support, highly recommended for anyone planning to set up a business in the UAE.
    Amitha Jeevandas profile pictureAmitha Jeevandas
    10:47 14 Aug 25
    Ms Anum, I sincerely appreciate the highly professional manner in which you handled my case. I am impressed by KWS’s commitment to delivering exceptional services and fulfilling its promises in a timely manner.
    Harman Kaur profile pictureHarman Kaur
    11:04 12 Aug 25
    I recently opened my Ladies Home Salon Services business with KWS Middle East, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience.

    A special thanks to Hasan for guiding me through the entire process from selecting the right license to handling all the paperwork with such professionalism and ease. His attention to detail and prompt communication made everything stress-free and efficient.

    I highly recommend KWS Middle East and Hasan to anyone looking to start their business in the UAE. They truly know how to turn your vision into reality.

    Harman kaur
    Aileen Peguis profile pictureAileen Peguis
    08:42 12 Aug 25
    Hasan and KWS Middle East made our Cloud Kitchen setup in the UAE smooth and stress-free. From licensing to approvals, they handled everything quickly and professionally, keeping us informed at every step. Highly recommended for anyone starting a Cloud Kitchen.
    REVILE MDF FURNITURE profile pictureREVILE MDF FURNITURE
    08:29 12 Aug 25
    I had the pleasure of setting up my materials trading company with KWS Middle East, and the experience was outstanding from day one.

    A big thanks to Hasan for his constant support, clear guidance, and professional approach throughout the entire process. He took the time to understand my requirements, explained every step in detail, and ensured everything was handled smoothly and efficiently.

    If you’re planning to establish a company in the UAE, I highly recommend KWS Middle East and Hasan for their expertise and exceptional service.

    Rizwan
    Neha Jamal profile pictureNeha Jamal
    07:22 12 Aug 25
    Amazing service from start to finish! The team at KWS Middle East made setting up our business in the UAE so easy and stress-free. They handled everything quickly and kept us updated at every step. Highly recommend them!
    Iqra Anwar profile pictureIqra Anwar
    14:47 11 Aug 25
    Sana is truly dedicated to her work at KWS Middle East. She handles project with care, professionalism, and attention to detail. She helped me in opening a bank account and she ensures things get done smoothly and on time.
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    FAQs about UAE Business License

    FAQs about Dubai Trade License

    Business activities fall into following categories of licenses:

     

    • Commercial licenses.
    • Professional licenses.
    • Industrial licenses.
    • Tourism.

     

    DED issues the Trade License and Commercial Registration Certificate to the company after the due processes are complete. Business consultants in Dubai can help you through the whole process.

    • A financial institute or bank has to obtain approval from the UAE Central Bank before applying for a Trade License to start operations in Dubai.
    • Manufacturing companies have to get the approvals of Ministry of Finance and Industry before a license can be issued to them.
    • An Insurance company must have the approval of the Economy and Commerce Ministry before a License can be issued to it.
    • For a medical and pharmaceutical company healthy ministry’s approval is required.
      Companies engaged in oil & gas business must get approvals from a number of government agencies.

    The UAE Commercial Companies Law requires, companies holding a professional license must have a local partner in ownership with 51% shares. Companies involved with Oil & Gas business are exempt from the 51% requirement and are given certain concessions.

    The registration process consists of these steps:

     

    Step 1

    • Decide who will partner with the company or a local sponsor.
    • Decide the role played by the local partner in business matters.
    • Decide on fee the company is prepared to pay each year.


    Step 2

    • Reserve a name for the company and get required approval for the name and business activities from DED.

     

    Step 3

    • Decide a place for office premises and get a tenancy contract.
    • This contract is necessary for getting the company registered.

     

    Step 4

    • Creation of Memorandum of Association (MOA) with the sponsor and its submission to the DED.
    • A legal firm or business consultants in Dubai may be hired for the development of MOA which is going to highlight business activities, special arrangements, and share of the partners in the company

     

    Step 5

    • The MOA and the license application has to be submitted to the DED with other required legal documents and the tenancy contract.
    • Applicable fees and charges will have to be paid and a trade license can be obtained a week or two after the submission of application.

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