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Setup Your Business in Dubai in 48 Hours
Expert consultancy for every business license in UAE. From selecting the right Trade License to securing your Golden Visa, we handle 100% of the legalities with zero hidden fees.
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Why Choose UAE for Your Next Business Venture?
Getting a business license in UAE can feel confusing at first. We eliminate the guesswork, guiding you through the official UAE government licensing requirements with a streamlined, stress-free process.
No Corporate Tax Hassles
Benefit from one of the most competitive tax environments globally. We guide you on maintaining compliance while maximizing your ROI.
100% Foreign Ownership
Recent reforms allow expats full ownership of their mainland companies. Control your destiny without needing a local sponsor.
Strategic Global Hub
Position your brand in a hyper-connected economy, bridging the gap between East and West markets seamlessly.
Types of Business Licenses in the UAE
Every business license in UAE falls under one of these categories. Select the one that matches your commercial activity. Not sure? Ask our experts.
Trade License
Start your UAE trade business easily with quick approvals and full compliance.
Trade License Details ❯
Ecommerce License
Launch your online store in UAE with legal, fast, and flexible setup.
Ecommerce License Details ❯
General Trading License
Operate multiple business activities under one UAE license with full ease.
Trading License Details ❯
Professional License
Offer professional services in UAE with legal protection and fast setup.
Professional License Details ❯
Commercial License
Set up a commercial business in UAE with a smooth licensing process.
Commercial License Details ❯
Industrial License
Start manufacturing or industrial operations in UAE with full compliance.
Industrial License Details ❯Our 4-Step Company Formation Process
We handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on scaling your business.
Initial Consultation
We analyze your business model and recommend the best jurisdiction (Mainland vs Free Zone) and license type.
Document Preparation
Our team handles trade name reservation, MoA drafting, and compiling all necessary legal paperwork.
License Issuance
We submit applications to the DED or Free Zone authority and acquire your official business license swiftly.
Visas & Banking
Post-license, we assist with immigration processes, Emirates ID, and corporate bank account opening.
Business License in UAE: Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, direct answers to the questions we hear most often from entrepreneurs setting up in Dubai and the wider UAE.
A business license in the UAE is an official government permit authorizing a company to legally operate a specific commercial activity, such as trading, e-commerce, or professional services. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) for mainland companies, or by the relevant free zone authority.
A Dubai business license typically costs between AED 12,000 and AED 25,000 for standard mainland or free zone setups, depending on the license type, business activity, and number of visas required. Specialized activities like industrial or commercial trading licenses can cost more due to additional approvals.
Most UAE business licenses are issued within 3 to 7 business days once all documents are submitted correctly. Free zone licenses are often the fastest, while mainland licenses requiring external government approvals (such as industrial or healthcare activities) can take 2 to 4 weeks.
A trade license covers general buying, selling, and import-export activities. A commercial license is a broader category that includes trade activities plus other operations like retail, logistics, and contracting.
No. Since UAE commercial law reforms, most mainland business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership without a local Emirati sponsor. Free zone companies have always allowed full foreign ownership. A small number of strategic or security-related activities may still require local participation.
Yes, most free zone business licenses can be processed entirely remotely, including document submission and trade name registration. A visit is typically only required later for visa stamping, Emirates ID biometrics, or opening a corporate bank account.
Standard requirements include passport copies of all shareholders, a completed application form, a trade name reservation certificate, a Memorandum of Association (MOA), and proof of a registered office address. Certain activities may require additional approvals from bodies like municipality or health authorities.
Ready to Make Your Mark in Dubai?
Join thousands of successful entrepreneurs who trusted First Idea Consultants for their business license in UAE. Get transparent pricing, dedicated account managers, and lifelong corporate support.
- ✓ Dedicated PRO Services
- ✓ Corporate Bank Account Assistance
- ✓ Golden Visa Processing
- ✓ Tax & VAT Consultation
