Business license fees in Dubai. Dubai is considered one of the most prominent commercial and economic centers in the world, annually attracting thousands of investors and entrepreneurs of various nationalities. This attraction comes as a result of providing an advanced investment environment, government facilities, and global infrastructure. One of the most important elements that contribute to the success of a business in Dubai is the trade license, which is a legal permit to officially practice commercial activities.
A commercial license is not just a document, but rather a key that opens doors for companies to access the local, regional and international market. Hence the importance of understanding the different types of commercial licenses, the costs associated with them, and the procedures necessary to obtain them. This article aims to provide a comprehensive and detailed overview of commercial license fees in Dubai , starting with the types of licenses available, passing through the costs associated with them, and ending with the procedures and steps required to obtain them.
In this context, we will also discuss the differences between professional, industrial, and commercial licenses, and everything related to government and additional fees related to issuing and renewing these licenses. In addition, we will review the required documents and approved locations for submitting applications. This guide will help everyone who wants to establish a business in Dubai to better understand the procedures and steps, making it easier for them to make the right decisions and move towards success.

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ToggleTypes of commercial licenses
Dubai is considered one of the most prominent global cities that attract entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world. To facilitate commercial operations and provide a suitable investment environment, the Dubai government provides a variety of commercial licenses that suit various economic activities. Here we will review the main types of business licenses in Dubai :
Professional business license
This license is granted to individuals or companies that provide services based on personal skills and technical expertise. This category of licenses includes professions such as management consulting, legal services, medical services, education and training, interior design, and other activities that depend on professional competence. This license usually requires the submission of certificates of experience and approved professional specializations.
Industrial commercial license
The industrial license is granted to companies operating in the fields of production and manufacturing. This category includes manufacturing, product assembly, packaging, and heavy and light manufacturing. To obtain this license, companies must provide suitable locations for factories and follow safety and quality standards approved by the competent authorities. In addition, environmental and health approvals may be required.
Commercial trade license
The commercial trade license is the most common and is granted to companies operating in the areas of trade, retail and wholesale, import and export. This category includes shops, restaurants, retail stores, and large commercial businesses. This license requires precisely defining the type of business activity and submitting a clear business plan that includes the distribution of products and services.
Understanding the types of business licenses available is essential for entrepreneurs to determine the most appropriate type for their business and ensure their compliance with the laws and regulations in Dubai. The requirements for each type of license vary, but all aim to provide a safe and sustainable business environment that enhances economic growth in the emirate.
Costs of obtaining a license
The costs of obtaining a commercial license in Dubai are among the important factors that investors and business owners must take into consideration when planning to establish a commercial project in the emirate. These costs are divided into several aspects, including government fees and possible additional fees, in addition to license renewal costs. Below we review the details of these costs.
Government fees
The process of obtaining a commercial license in Dubai requires paying government fees whose value varies depending on the type of business activity and the size of the project. These fees include the costs of registering with the Department of Economic Development and issuing a commercial license. This depends on the type of license and commercial category.
Additional fees
Besides government fees, investors may have to pay additional fees that include the costs of legal advice and administrative services. Additional fees may also be imposed on some specific activities that require special approvals from the relevant authorities. Additional fees also include commercial advertising costs and Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry membership fees. Overall.
License renewal
A trade license in Dubai requires annual renewal, and the renewal process requires payment of certain fees. Renewal fees vary based on the type of license and the size of the business. It is necessary to adhere to renewing the license on the specified dates to avoid possible fines and penalties.
In short, depending on the type of activity and the size of the project. It is important to plan well financially and allocate the appropriate budget to cover these costs to ensure the smooth conduct of the procedures for obtaining a commercial license.

How to obtain a license
Obtaining a commercial license in Dubai requires following a set of steps and procedures regulated by the competent government authorities. Investors and entrepreneurs must adhere to these steps to ensure obtaining the license on time and with the least possible effort. The process of obtaining a business license in Dubai includes the following:
Required documents
To obtain a business license in Dubai, you must submit a set of basic documents that vary depending on the type of license desired. These documents usually include:
- A copy of the license holder’s passport: A clear and valid copy of the passport must be provided to all parties involved in the business activity.
- Personal photo: A recent personal photo of the license holder.
- Copy of residence visa: If the license holder is a resident of the UAE, a copy of the residence visa must be submitted.
- Lease Contract: A documented lease contract for the place where the business activity will be conducted.
- Articles of Association: In the case of companies, a notarized Articles of Association must be submitted.
- No objection certificate: from the local sponsor if required.
Procedures and steps
To obtain a business license in Dubai , you must follow the following steps:
- Choosing a business: Determine the type of business you want to engage in and ensure it complies with local laws.
- Choosing a trade name: Choose a unique trade name for the business and ensure that it is not repeated.
- Submitting the application: Apply via the electronic system or visit one of the service centers to submit an application for the license.
- Payment of fees: Pay the fees required to issue the commercial license.
- Obtaining the necessary approvals: Some commercial activities require obtaining additional approvals from various government agencies.
- Receiving the license: After completing all procedures, you can receive the commercial license and begin practicing commercial activity.
Approved places
To obtain a commercial license in Dubai, you can go to several approved places to submit applications and complete procedures, and the most prominent of these places are:
- Department of Economic Development in Dubai: It is considered the main body responsible for issuing commercial licenses in the emirate.
- Authorized service centers: There are many service centers spread across Dubai that provide services for issuing and renewing commercial licenses.
- Electronic services: Applications for obtaining a license can be submitted through government websites, which saves time and effort.
By following these steps and procedures, investors and entrepreneurs can obtain a commercial license in Dubai easily and conveniently, allowing them to start their businesses and achieve success in the growing business market in the emirate.
Learn about the commercial license in Dubai
At the conclusion of this article, it is clear that obtaining a commercial license in Dubai is an essential step for starting any commercial activity in the emirate. By reviewing the different types of commercial licenses, whether professional, industrial, or commercial, business owners can choose the appropriate type for their activities and requirements. Understanding the costs associated with obtaining and renewing a license is vital to avoid any unexpected surprises, as these costs include government fees and surcharges.
We also discussed how to obtain a license by clarifying the required documents and procedures followed, which makes it easier for new investors and entrepreneurs to engage in the market in a legal and orderly manner. The diversity of places approved for obtaining a license shows the extent of the facilities provided by Dubai to support the business sector and investors.
Based on the above, obtaining a commercial license in Dubai is considered a deliberate and organized process that contributes to enhancing the business environment and providing tremendous growth opportunities. We invite all those wishing to start their commercial projects to review the details related to commercial licenses and take advantage of the possibilities available in Dubai to achieve success and prosperity.
Frequently asked questions about the commercial license in Dubai
Are there additional fees associated with obtaining a commercial license?
Yes, there may be additional fees such as consulting fees, document translation fees, and legal services fees.
Do the fees differ between commercial licenses in free zones and other areas in Dubai?
Yes, fees vary based on location. Free zones may offer special incentives and lower costs in some cases compared to other areas in Dubai.
What is the validity period of a trade license in Dubai?
The validity period of a business license is usually one year, and can be renewed annually.
What is the cost of renewing a trade license in Dubai?
The renewal cost varies based on the type of business and company size, and the renewal fee is similar to the initial issuance fee.
Can the commercial license fees be paid in installments?
Yes, some entities in Dubai provide the option of paying the commercial license fees in installments, but this depends on the internal policies of those entities.
Are there additional fees to amend the trade license?
Yes, there may be additional fees for amending the commercial license, such as changing the trade name, changing the activity, or amending the legal form of the company.
Can the commercial license fees be refunded if the procedures are not completed?
The refund policy depends on the concerned party. Some entities may provide a refund of part of the fees paid if the procedures are not completed, while the fees may be non-refundable in other cases.