Types of UAE Trade Licenses
Commercial License
For businesses engaged in buying and selling goods — import, export, retail, wholesale, trading, e-commerce, and distribution. Issued by DED (mainland) or the relevant free zone authority.
Professional License
For service-based businesses — consultancies, IT firms, management advisories, marketing agencies, HR firms, engineering companies, and more. Individual professional activities are available as sole establishments.
Industrial License
For manufacturing, processing, and production activities. Requires a suitable industrial facility or warehouse. Issued by DED with Dubai Municipality and/or Ministry of Industry approval for some activities.
Tourism & Hospitality License
For hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and tour operators. Requires DTCM (Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing) approval in addition to DED.
Our License Packages
| License Type | Price (AED) | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Business License | 5,500 | DED license + trade name + initial approval |
| Platinum Business License | 6,500 | Standard + priority processing + compliance review |
| Freelance Permit | 8,999+ | Individual professional permit (Creative Zone / TECOM) |
| SME Business Package | 16,999+ | License + Ejari + 1 investor visa (Most Popular) |
| Corporate Package | Custom | Complex activity combinations, regulated sectors |
Government authority fees included in packages at cost.
What's Included
Every license engagement includes:
- Trade name search — 3 name options researched and reserved with DED
- Activity selection advisory — we identify the correct DED activity codes for your business
- Initial approval — DED preliminary approval secured before any physical requirements
- MOA / LSA preparation — Memorandum of Association or Local Service Agent agreement drafted and notarized
- External approvals (where required) — DHA, KHDA, RTA, MOCCAE, etc. managed by our PRO team
- License issuance and collection — we collect and courier your original trade license
- Post-license checklist — Ejari, MOHRE, WPS, VAT registration guidance
Activities Requiring External Approvals
Some business activities require clearance from government bodies beyond DED before a license can be issued:
| Activity Sector | Approving Authority |
|---|---|
| Healthcare & Clinics | DHA (Dubai Health Authority) |
| Education & Training | KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) |
| Transport & Logistics | RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) |
| Food Trading & F&B | Dubai Municipality |
| Agriculture & Environment | MOCCAE |
| Security Services | Dubai Police / Ministry of Interior |
| Financial Services | CBUAE / SCA / DFSA |
Our PRO team manages all external approvals — you don't need to visit any government office.
Regulated Activities — Special Notes
Real estate brokerage: Requires RERA registration and passing the DREI exam. We advise on the process and connect you with approved training providers.
Healthcare: DHA approval, facility inspection, and healthcare professional licensing are required. Timeline is longer (4–8 weeks). We manage the full process.
Financial services: CBUAE or SCA approval required. Minimum capital and prudential requirements apply. We provide advisory and connect you with licensed specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a UAE trade license? DED mainland: 7–14 working days (or 3–5 days with express processing after all documents are submitted). Free zones: 3–7 days. Activities requiring external approvals may take 4–8 weeks.
Do I need a physical office to get a trade license? DED mainland licenses require a tenancy contract registered on Ejari. Free zones offer flexi-desk and virtual office options that satisfy the address requirement.
Can I add multiple activities to one license? Yes — DED allows multiple activities on a single license. Some combinations (e.g., professional + commercial) may require specific structuring. We advise on the optimal setup.
What is the difference between a commercial and professional license? A commercial license covers trading/buying-selling of goods. A professional license covers services and consulting. The distinction affects ownership structure: professional sole establishments may require a Local Service Agent for non-UAE nationals.
Office 225, Oud Metha Offices, Dubai Healthcare City +971 50 380 7565 | support@hashmibusinessconsultant.com