How to Get a Trade License in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
Every business operating in Dubai needs a valid trade license. It is the legal document that authorises your commercial activity, and choosing the right one shapes your costs, your ownership options, and where you can trade. This 2026 guide walks you through the license types, the exact steps, the documents, and the real costs.
New to Dubai? Start with our complete guide on how to start a business in Dubai.
What Is a Trade License in Dubai?
A trade license is an official permit issued by a licensing authority — either the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for mainland companies or a free zone authority for free zone companies. It defines the activities your business is legally allowed to perform. Operating without one, or outside your listed activities, can lead to fines and closure.
Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai
Dubai issues four main categories of trade license, and your business activity determines which one you need:
- Commercial License — for trading activities: buying, selling, import, export, and general trade.
- Professional License — for service providers and specialists: consultants, accountants, IT, marketing, and artisans.
- Industrial License — for manufacturing, processing, and production activities that turn raw materials into finished goods.
- Tourism License — for travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality businesses.
How to Get a Trade License in Dubai: Step-by-Step
1. Choose your business activity
Select your activity from the official approved list. Your activity decides your license type and any external approvals you may need.
2. Decide on a legal structure and jurisdiction
Pick mainland, free zone, or offshore, and a structure such as LLC or sole establishment. See our guide on Free Zone vs Mainland vs Offshore to choose well.
3. Reserve a trade name
Register a unique company name that follows the UAE naming rules — no offensive language and no abbreviations of personal names.
4. Apply for initial approval
Get the authority’s no-objection to start your business, plus any special approvals your activity requires.
5. Secure an office address and tenancy
Mainland companies need an Ejari-registered tenancy; many free zones offer flexi-desk packages that satisfy this requirement.
6. Submit documents and pay the fees
Submit your final paperwork, settle the license fee, and receive your trade license — often within a few working days.
Documents Required for a Dubai Trade License
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
- Passport-size photographs
- Completed application form and approved trade name
- Initial approval certificate
- Tenancy contract / Ejari (mainland) or flexi-desk agreement (free zone)
- Memorandum of Association (for LLCs)
Cost of a Trade License in Dubai
Trade license costs in 2026 typically range from AED 12,500 to AED 30,000+ depending on jurisdiction, activity, visa quota, and office type. Free zone packages are often the most budget-friendly for startups. For a full breakdown, read our guide on the cost to set up a company in Dubai.
Mainland vs Free Zone Trade License
A mainland license lets you trade directly across the UAE market and bid for government contracts, with 100% foreign ownership now available for most activities. A free zone license offers tax incentives, full ownership, and simplified setup, but trading inside the mainland may require a local distributor or agent. Your growth plans should drive the choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a trade license in Dubai?
For most free zones and straightforward mainland activities, a trade license can be issued within 3–7 working days once your documents and approvals are in order.
Can I get a trade license in Dubai with 100% foreign ownership?
Yes. Most mainland commercial and professional activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, and free zones have always offered full ownership.
Do I need an office to get a trade license?
Yes, but it can be flexible. Mainland companies need a physical office with Ejari, while free zones accept flexi-desk or shared-desk packages that meet the requirement at a lower cost.
How often do I renew my trade license?
Trade licenses are renewed annually. Late renewal incurs fines, so it is best to renew before the expiry date on your license.
Ready to get your Dubai trade license? Talk to Kurum Group’s setup experts and we will handle the activity selection, approvals, and paperwork from start to finish.
