Commercial Trade LICENSE

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Start Your Trading Business in Dubai with Confidence – Commercial Trade License Made Simple

Commercial Trade License in Dubai

Dubai is one of the world’s leading hubs for commerce, logistics, and global trade. If you’re planning to launch a trading company in the UAE, the commercial trade license is your key to unlocking these opportunities. At Business Diaries, we guide you through every step—ensuring your business is set up efficiently, compliantly, and ready to thrive.

What is a Commercial Trade License in Dubai?

A commercial trade license is a mandatory legal document that allows businesses to engage in buying, selling, importing, and exporting physical goods within Dubai and internationally. Whether you’re trading electronics, textiles, machinery, or food products, this license is a must-have for your operations.

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Who Needs a Commercial Trade License?

01.

Import-export businesses

03.

E-commerce platforms dealing in tangible products

02.

Retail and wholesale traders

04.

Companies involved in general trading activities

Activities You Can Do with a Commercial License in Dubai

Depending on your specific business model, a commercial license in Dubai can cover:

  • Import and Export of Goods
  • Wholesale Trading Retail Trading (Online and Physical Stores)
  • General Trading (multiple unrelated products)
  • E-commerce Business (with physical products)
  • Automotive Trading (new and used vehicles)
  • Construction Materials Trading
  • Electronics and Mobile Phone Trading
  • Garments and Fashion Accessories Trading
  • Foodstuff and Beverages Trading
  • Office Equipment and Stationery Trading
  • Furniture and Home Décor Trading
  • Beauty and Personal Care Products Trading
  • Cleaning and Hygiene Products Trading
  • Machinery and Spare Parts Trading

Key Benefits of Setting Up a Trading Business in Dubai

Centralized Access to Global Markets


Dubai connects East and West like no other city. From one strategic location, you can efficiently trade with markets across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Its time zone overlaps with all major global trading zones, making communication and operations seamless.

Business Ownership Flexibility


Whether you’re trading in eco-products, AI-driven devices, sustainable fashion, or traditional goods, Dubai supports a wide variety of trading licenses. You can also apply for a general trading license if your business covers multiple, unrelated products.

Diverse Trading Possibilities


Whether you’re trading in eco-products, AI-driven devices, sustainable fashion, or traditional goods, Dubai supports a wide variety of trading licenses. You can also apply for a general trading license if your business covers multiple, unrelated products.

Easy Scalability


Businesses in Dubai can scale operations easily by adding new activities, opening branches, or expanding into other Emirates or GCC countries—without major legal barriers.

Business-Friendly Government Support


Government bodies like the Department of Economic Development (DED) and Free Zone authorities provide structured and streamlined services, making setup and renewals straightforward.

How to Get a Commercial Trade License in Dubai

Determine Business Activity

Choose the products or goods your business will trade. You can apply for specific activity licenses or a general trading license if you deal in multiple product types.

Choose a Company Structure

Decide where to register your business. Mainland gives access to UAE markets, while Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership and tax advantages.

Trade Name Registration

Pick a unique business name that complies with UAE rules. We help check availability and reserve it with the appropriate authority.

Identify Business Activities

List the trading activities your company will engage in. You can include multiple related activities, but make sure they’re allowed under the chosen license type.

Complete the License Application

Accurately fill out the trade license application and submit it to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant Free Zone authority for initial review.

Get External Approvals (if required)

Obtain clearance from relevant authorities for specific business activities (if applicable).

Prepare All Required Documents

Ensure you have all documentation in order, including passport copies, MoA (for LLCs), and proof of address. Missing paperwork can delay or halt the application.

Choose a Business Location

A physical address is mandatory for most licenses, especially in the mainland. Secure a commercial space and obtain a tenancy contract, which must be Ejari-certified.

Submit the Final Application

With all documents and approvals in hand, submit your complete license application package to the DED or Free Zone authority for final evaluation.

Pay Government Fees

Pay the licensing and registration fees as per the activity type and setup jurisdiction. Costs vary based on the number of visas, office space, and business category.

Commercial Trade License Cost in Dubai

The total cost of obtaining a commercial trade license in Dubai in 2025 typically ranges between AED 15,000 to AED 35,000, depending on your chosen jurisdiction, business activities, office location, and whether additional approvals are required. This amount generally includes government fees, trade name registration, license issuance, basic office rental, and initial administrative costs. For businesses opting for a general trading license or larger office spaces, the cost may be on the higher end of this range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Any individual or company involved in the buying and selling of goods—whether retail, wholesale, or online—must obtain a commercial trade license to operate legally in Dubai.

With the right documentation and approvals in place, the process typically takes 5 to 10 working days. Free Zone licenses can sometimes be issued even faster.

Yes, for Mainland companies, a physical office space is mandatory. In Free Zones, flexible desk or shared workspace options may be acceptable depending on the authority.

Absolutely. A commercial license allows you to apply for investor and employee visas, as well as sponsor family members once the license and establishment card are issued.

At Business Diaries, we offer complete support—from business planning and documentation to approvals, PRO services, and post-setup support—making your business launch fast, compliant, and stress-free.

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