Types of commercial licenses in the United Arab Emirates

There are many types of commercial licenses in the United Arab Emirates depending on the activities carried out by investors in the country, and in this article, dear readers, we will introduce you to the types of licenses in the United Arab Emirates; so follow us in the next few lines.

Commercial licenses in Dubai:

The commercial license in “Dubai” allows you to work in the following activities: import and export of goods and products, work in the advertising field, work in building maintenance services, work in cleaning services, work in storage, gas stations, shops, general stores, work in sanitation services, maintenance of electrical appliances (TV screens, cinema screens, radio), providing rental services, monitoring services, etc. the commercial license in “Dubai” and restaurant management.

Types of commercial licenses in Dubai:

1. Industrial licenses:

Licenses for the establishment of industrial activity, companies engaged in production and manufacturing.

2. Tourist licenses:

These are the licenses for companies that operate in all services related to hospitality and tourism within the United Arab Emirates.

3. Professional licenses:

These are licenses for the professions, craftsmen, services, and specialists.

4. Commercial licenses:

There are many types of commercial licenses, these types are:

  • Commercial licenses allow companies to carry out their commercial activities, which are clearly defined in the license.
  • Commercial licenses allow companies to provide services that are specific and clearly stated in the license.
  • Commercial licenses allow entrepreneurs to practice general trade unrestricted by a range of activities.
  • Licenses are intended for the operation of businesses, and these licenses are for companies that want to obtain a contract to work in the free zone.
  • Licenses are intended for companies that organize special events, such as: organizing conferences, and meetings.

The cost of a trade license in Dubai:

The fees for a business license in Dubai start at AED 15 thousand, in addition to several fees, namely:

  • The trade name reservation fee is AED 620 for 6 months.
  • The initial approval is worth AED 120 for 6 months.
  • The value of the electronic memorandum of association with a printing fee of AED 500.
  • Notary fees depend on the number of partner shareholders of the company and the value of its share capital.

What is the cost of a trade license in the Dubai free zone?

The fees for a business license in the Dubai free zone are the same as the cost of establishing a company in Dubai, but the difference between the license in the free zone is between the license of the institution and the license of the company, since:

  • The costs of obtaining a business license for an enterprise are up to AED 15 thousand.
  • The costs of obtaining a business license for a company are up to AED 10 thousand.

Commercial license in Abu Dhabi:

The commercial license in “Abu Dhabi” is one of the basic commercial licenses that allow individuals and companies to practice commercial activities in the emirate, and is issued to owners of companies or institutions that do business, such as general trade, contracting, real estate, transportation, clinics, and hospitals.

Types of licenses in Abu Dhabi:

There are six types of licenses in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, and it is worth mentioning here that the authority authorized to grant this license is the Department of Economic Development, but some activities require other parties according to the nature of the company’s activity, such as activities related to the tourism, medical, or insurance sector, and these types are:

1. Commercial licenses:

It is for the owners of companies or institutions that conduct business, such as contracting, general trade, clinics, hospitals, transport, or real estate.

2. Craft license:

It is for craftsmen, and for everyone who relies on his physical effort with the help of several tools and equipment, and practices his craft independently, such as: carpentry, printing, or blacksmithing.

3. Industrial license:

It is for professionals who rely on their scientific talents, studies, intellectual property, and mental ability in their work, such as law firms, consulting firms, or audit offices.

4. Agricultural license:

They are for owners of livestock, vegetable, or marine production farms.

5. Tourist license:

It is for the owners of establishments that specialize in tourist activities, such as travel offices, floating restaurants, hotels, picnic boat rentals, tourist restaurants, or tourist camps.

6. Industrial licenses:

They are for the owners of factories of all kinds.

Fees for obtaining a commercial license in Abu Dhabi:

There are no fixed and specific fees for all types of economic activity located in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The value of fees varies depending on the type of company and its activity. it is worth mentioning here that all investors can view the value of fees through the Abu Dhabi Business Center Services website dedicated to this to find out the estimated value of the license depending on the activity to be practiced. the site also provides other services for investors, including: obtaining a trade name, booking it, and knowing its availability.

Investors can download the “ADBC” application on their smartphone, or receive the necessary information through the business facilitation centers located in most areas of the emirate, or through customer services.

Commercial license in Sharjah:

The Department of Economic Development in “Sharjah” is the responsible authority for issuing the trade license, for those who can obtain this license, there are several categories, they are:

Individuals who have UAE citizenship, and are residents of the emirate of “Sharjah”.

Residents of the emirate of “Sharjah” and hold a valid residence permit.

Citizens and residents of the GCC countries, and residents of the emirate of “Sharjah”.

Citizens and residents from other countries who have UAE partners; the company is established and registered under a partnership agreement between the parties.

Types of commercial licenses in Sharjah:

1. General commercial license:

It is issued to companies wishing to practice general commercial activities.

2. Specific business license:

It is issued to companies wishing to work in a specific commercial field, such as a shop.

3. Free trade license:

It is awarded to companies operating in the free zone of “Sharjah”.

4. Contributing business license:

It is issued to companies that want to be a joint-stock company.

5. Limited company license:

It is issued to the company wishing to be a limited liability company.

6. The license of the company is fully owned by citizens:

It is awarded to companies that are 100% owned by citizens.

The cost of establishing a commercial license in Sharjah:

The cost of establishing a commercial license in the emirate of “Sharjah” varies according to the type of license, the type of business, the size of the company, and its geographical location, the cost usually ranges between 5,000 and 10,000 dirhams, and, there may be some simple activities whose total cost does not exceed 2,000 dirhams, and it should be noted that the costs vary according to government policies.

In conclusion:

Obtaining a trade license in one of the UAE is an opportunity to invest in a vibrant and prosperous business environment, and the trade license system in the UAE is characterized by flexibility, especially with foreign investors, it opens the opportunity to own the company 100%, a trade license is an excellent investment opportunity, whether for individuals or companies from all over the world, and an opportunity to achieve success and prosperity