How to Get a Trade License in Dubai?

To get a commercial trade license in Dubai, you must choose a business activity, select the right jurisdiction (Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore), register a trade name, and apply through the relevant authority. The Infinite Service simplifies every step with end-to-end support.

What Is a Trade License in Dubai?

A trade license in Dubai is a legal document issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant Free Zone authorities that permits individuals or companies to operate a business in the Emirate.

Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai

License Type	Purpose	Issued By
Commercial	For trading and buying/selling goods	DED / Free Zones
Professional	For service providers, consultants, freelancers	DED / Free Zones
Industrial	For manufacturing or production activities	DED / Specialized Zones
Tourism	For travel agencies, tour operators	DTCM / DED

What Are the Steps to Get a Trade License in Dubai?

The Infinite Service follows a structured and compliant process to secure your Dubai trade license efficiently.

Step-by-Step Process:

Choose Business Activity
→ Must match DED or Free Zone listed activities.
Select Jurisdiction
→ Mainland (DED), Free Zone (e.g., DMCC), or Offshore.
Reserve Trade Name
→ Must follow UAE naming conventions and be approved.
Prepare Legal Documents
→ Includes passport copies, MoA, lease agreement, etc.
Apply for Initial Approval
→ Required before proceeding with license issuance.
Secure Office Space
→ Ejari or Free Zone office lease mandatory.
Submit Final Application
→ Via DED, Free Zone, or agent like The Infinite Service.
Receive Trade License
→ Usually issued in 3–7 working days if documents are valid.

What Documents Are Required for a Trade License in Dubai?

Document	Required For
Passport copies of owners/partners	Identity verification
Emirates ID (if resident)	Residency confirmation
Trade name reservation certificate	Business name registration
Tenancy contract (Ejari)	Physical office requirement (Mainland)
Memorandum of Association (MoA)	Legal structure & ownership clauses
Initial approval certificate	Issued by DED or Free Zone Authority

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Trade License in Dubai?

The average cost ranges between AED 7,000 – AED 25,000, depending on the jurisdiction, number of shareholders, business activity, and location.

Breakdown of Costs:

Cost Item	Estimated Range (AED)
DED License Fee	7,000 – 15,000
Trade Name Registration	620 – 1,000
MoA Drafting & Notarization	1,000 – 2,500
Ejari Lease (Mainland only)	10,000 – 20,000+
Service Agent Fee (if any)	3,000 – 5,000

The Infinite Service offers transparent pricing and customized packages to reduce setup costs.

How Can The Infinite Service Help You Get a Trade License?

The Infinite Service is a Dubai-based business setup consultancy specialized in helping entrepreneurs, freelancers, and corporations get licensed and operational fast.

Their Trade License Services Include:

Business activity selection and classification
Trade name reservation and approval
Preparation and submission of documents
MoA drafting and legal translations
PRO support for notarization and government approvals
Assistance with visa and establishment card after licensing
Ongoing compliance for renewals and regulatory changes

Unique Advantages:

Works across Mainland, Free Zones & Offshore setups
Bilingual consultants for Arabic and English coordination
100% compliance with DED, MOHRE, Immigration & Dubai Municipality
Digital document tracking and one-point contact system

Mainland vs Free Zone Trade License – What’s the Difference?

Feature	Mainland	Free Zone
Issuing Authority	DED (Dubai Economic Dept)	Free Zone Authority (e.g., DMCC)
Office Requirement	Physical office required	Flexi-desk options available
Trade Scope	Across UAE & globally	Within Free Zone or internationally
Ownership Rules	100% expat ownership allowed	100% foreign ownership allowed
Cost	Higher (due to office needs)	Lower (with shared facilities)