Trade License in UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular destination for investors willing to establish business. However, every company must get a business license before starting a business in the UAE. A trade license is the first step for an investor to start a new business in the UAE.
Business setup in the UAE can become a complex process if we don't comply with regulations. Our advisors at Gryffin Capitalist will assist you in setting up a company and meeting all compliance regulations.
Types of Trade Licenses in UAE
In UAE, there are different types of trade licenses. Choosing a business trade license is the first step in starting a company. The authorities have approved the below business license in the UAE.
- Commercial License: A Commercial License is a requirement for businesses that are engaged in buying and selling goods, covering both wholesale and retail trading.
- Industrial License: It is necessary for businesses involved in manufacturing or industrial activities.
- Professional License: Companies offering professional services such as consulting, accounting, and legal services will require a Professional License.
- General Trading License: It allows businesses to trade in a wide range of goods without needing multiple licenses. The General Trading License in UAE is very popular among investors.
- E-Commerce License: Investors choose an E-Commerce License for businesses specifically operating Online. To open a physical presence, they would require additional licenses.
UAE Trade License Cost
The cost of obtaining a business license in Dubai varies depending on many factors. The cost of a company license can range between AED 10,000 and AED 50,000. The factors that decide the cost are license type, company structure, visas, location, and business activity types.
The Trade License process varies based on the type of business and the jurisdiction where you are planning to set up. As a business owner, we need to decide on the following:
- Business Activity
- Selecting a Location
- Receiving preliminary approvals
- Completing legal paperwork
- Applying for a license
- Tax registration
Business Consultants can avoid delays with regulatory authorities and ensure we comply legally. Consultants will assist us in every step, such as choosing the proper license, paperwork, preliminary permissions, and submitting your application.
Benefits of obtaining a Business Trade license in UAE
- Reputable Jurisdiction
- Seamless Bank Account Opening
- Business Expansion
- Government Contracts
- Residence Visas
- Business Opportunities
- Tax Benefits
Steps to get a Business Trade License in UAE
The business trade license process is seamless. There are seven Emirates in the UAE. Select the Emirates where you are planning to start a company. In the UAE, each Emirate has its authority.
The authorities will set its rules and regulations for the jurisdiction. However, these rules and regulations are similar across the jurisdiction. Here are some of the steps to get a trade license in UAE.
Select the business activity that would suit your business. The authorities will have a list of approved activities for the investors to select. You can select up to three business activities under your license that closely resemble your nature of business. There might be a penalty if the chosen activity does not match your business.
We recommend working with a business consultant who will assist you in choosing the right business activity.
At the time of company registration in UAE, we need to be careful when selecting the right legal type for the company. Each of the company's legal types has its benefits. As investors, we need to have a clear understanding of our company's vision and how it will evolve in the coming years. Select a company type that would best suit your company's growth in the future.
The following legal forms an investor can select while registering a Company:
- Partnership Company
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Limited Partnership
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Private Joint Stock Company
- Public Joint Stock Company
As an investor, select the business name that best suits your business. You can choose a name that closely relates to your business and which is unique. Register your company name with the UAE Registry Office.
The business name must comply with the UAE's naming laws. The UAE law forbids obscene language or any references to religious sentiments. The company name should be unique and available to the authorities.
To conduct business in the UAE, you must first obtain DED approval. This preliminary approval indicates that the UAE government has no objections to your venture. However, this is not a temporary permit to begin trading.
Before receiving initial approval, foreign investors and entrepreneurs must obtain approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
The investors planning to set up a company in UAE need to have a business location. You can set up a company in the UAE Free Zone with a virtual office. However, to register a company on the Mainland, one needs to have a physical address.
In UAE, there are different types of office space availabile based on location and budget. The company can seamlessly open an office in Dubai. The rental agreement of the business location is an essential document during the business application process.
You may need additional approvals from local or federal government bodies depending on your business activity. These approvals range from municipal to federal agencies that regulate specific business activities and industries.
It includes obtaining membership in the UAE Chamber of Commerce. You must apply to the relevant emirate in which your company operates.
Activities under Business Trade License in UAE
Documents Required to Get a Business Trade License in UAE
- Completed Business License Application Form
- 3 proposed names for the company
- Passport copies of all shareholders and partners
- Copy of the Emirates ID for UAE residents is necessary
- Initial Approval Certificate
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- A copy of the lease agreement
What our clients say
Thanks to Gryffin Capitalist, starting my business in the UAE was smooth and efficient. They offered advice on company formation and licensing and assisted in opening a bank account.
Starting a business in the UAE seemed complicated, but Gryffin Capitalist made it seamless. The team is very knowledgeable, professional, and responsive.
I had a great experience registering my company in the UAE with Gryffin Capitalist. The Gryffin Capitalist team assisted in selecting the right Emirate to complete all legal steps.
Why Choose Gryffin Capitalist?
As an investor, are you planning to get a Business Trade License in UAE? We can assist you and provide guidance and support throughout the process. Our team of business advisors is thoroughly aware of the local laws and procedures.
We provide end-to-end support for your company registration and UAE bank account opening assistance. Our wide range of services includes business establishment, PRO services, and visa processing. We can assist you as you navigate the challenging process of getting a business license in the UAE. Reach out to us if you are planning to get a trade license in the UAE.
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Important articles entrepreneurs should read and have clarity before deciding the company structure, business activity and business setup locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The UAE issues several licenses, including commercial, industrial, professional, and tourism. The type of license required depends on the nature of the business activity and its location.
The main requirements for obtaining a business license in the UAE include the following:
• Determining the type of license required.
• Selecting a location for the business.
• Obtaining initial approvals from relevant government entities.
• Legal document preparation
• Registering for tax purposes with the Federal Tax Authority
The process can take one to six weeks, but it can be longer if there are any issues with the application.
Yes, foreign nationals can own a business in the UAE. If you are planning to open a company in the UAE Free Zone, you can own 100% of the company. However, in the Mainland, only certain activities can own 100% of the company.
Working with a business consultant ensures that obtaining a business license in the UAE is efficient and hassle-free. A business consultant can provide expert guidance and advice on local regulations and procedures. They can assist with the preparation of legal documents and handle the application process on behalf of the client.