Learn about opening a commercial registry in Dubai in terms of features and procedures because when thinking about establishing a company in Dubai , opening a commercial registry is an essential step to start commercial activity in a legal and organized manner. Dubai, as one of the world’s leading economic destinations, provides a vibrant and competitive business environment. However, to succeed in this dynamic market, it is necessary to understand the features and procedures involved in opening a business registry. The process of opening the commercial register begins with identifying the business activity and choosing the appropriate trade name, which requires verifying the availability of the name with the relevant authorities. Then comes the turn of preparing the required documents and submitting them to government agencies, such as the Department of Economic Development. This includes procedures for registering the company, obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, and preparing legal documents that ensure that your business complies with local laws. We will review the rest of the details about opening a commercial register in Dubai – features and procedures .

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ToggleAdvantages of opening a commercial register in Dubai
Opening a commercial register in Dubai comes with many advantages that enhance the chances of business success and provide an ideal business environment. Here are the most prominent features:
- Encouraging business environment : Dubai provides a stable and attractive business environment for investors, with modern infrastructure and advanced facilities that support businesses of all kinds.
- Ease of procedures : Dubai facilitates the procedures for opening a commercial register through an integrated electronic system, which saves time, reduces bureaucracy, and makes the process smoother and more effective.
- Tax exemptions : Dubai offers many tax exemptions and privileges to investors, such as not imposing personal income tax or corporate tax in some free zones, which helps improve the profitability of companies.
- Access to global markets : Thanks to its strategic location as a global trade center, Dubai gives companies the opportunity to access global markets and enhance their international trade.
- Financing and support opportunities : Dubai provides many financing and support options for investors, including government support programs and grants, which helps develop SMEs.
- Intellectual property protection : Dubai offers an advanced system for protecting intellectual property rights, which helps companies protect their trademarks and patents.
- Diverse business environment : Dubai provides diversity in commercial activities and economic sectors, allowing companies to choose the field that suits them and innovate in it.
These advantages make Dubai an ideal destination for opening a commercial register, and provides strong support to new business owners and investors.
Cost factors for opening a commercial register in Dubai
The cost of opening a commercial registry in Dubai depends on several factors that may vary based on the type of business, location, and options you choose. Here are the most important factors that affect the cost of opening a commercial register:
- Type of business : Different business activities may require different types of licenses and permits, which affects the cost. Activities that need special licenses or additional permits may be more expensive.
- Company type : The costs of opening a commercial register may vary based on the type of company you create, such as a limited liability company, sole proprietorship, or commercial company.
- Location : If you choose to establish your company in a different free zone or commercial zone, there may be differences in fees. Free zones usually offer incentives and facilities but may have different costs.
- Company Name : Business name registration costs depend on the availability and use of the name, as additional fees may be charged if you need to change the name or if the name contains special terms.
- Office rent : The cost of the lease for the company’s headquarters plays a large role in the total cost. There may be additional fees related to facilities and services.
- Government fees : Government fees include fees for registering the commercial registry, issuing licenses, and other fees that may be requested by the Department of Economic Development or other government agencies.
- Legal and consulting services : If you use consulting or legal services from companies like Itqan, these services come with additional fees that may include assistance in preparing documents, submitting applications, and completing legal procedures.
- Banking fees : You may need to open a business bank account, and this comes with bank-specific fees that may include account opening and maintenance fees.
- Special Licenses and Permits : Some activities require additional licenses and permits that may increase the overall cost.
Depending on these factors, the cost of opening a commercial registry in Dubai can vary greatly, and it is important to take all of these factors into consideration when estimating the budget required to establish your company.
Procedures for opening a commercial register in Dubai
Procedures for opening a commercial register in Dubai include several main steps to ensure the establishment of a company in a legal and orderly manner. Here are the basic steps:
- Choose a business : Select the business you would like to practice. The activity must be compatible with the classifications approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai.
- Choose a trade name : Choose a trade name that is consistent with the business and is available for registration. Make sure the name follows the approved rules and is free of any conflicts with previously registered names.
- Submitting a registration application : Submit an application to obtain a commercial register through the electronic services portal of the Department of Economic Development or through its offices. The application includes details about the business activity, trade name, and required documents.
- Preparing documents : Prepare the necessary documents such as the passport, identity card, lease contract for the company’s headquarters, and a copy of the previous commercial license if it exists. You may also need to submit a business plan and some legal documents depending on the type of activity.
- Application review and approval : After submitting the application, it will be reviewed by the Department of Economic Development. Some activities may require additional approvals from other government agencies.
- Payment of fees : Pay the fees related to commercial registry registration, which include fees for issuing a commercial license, application submission fees, and any other related fees.
- Receiving the commercial register : After completing all procedures and paying the fees, you will receive the commercial register that authorizes you to legally practice commercial activity in Dubai.
- Registration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry : After obtaining the commercial registration, you may need to register with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry to obtain membership and complete some additional procedures. By following these steps, you can open a commercial register in Dubai and successfully establish your business in one of the most prominent global economic destinations.

Steps to open a commercial register
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires following a set of basic steps to ensure that your company is registered legally. Here are the detailed steps:
- Identify the business activity : Choose the business activity you wish to engage in and check its classification according to the requirements of the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Choosing a trade name : Select a trade name for your company and ensure that it complies with approved laws and is not similar to other registered trade names.
- Trade name registration : Submit an application to register a trade name through the Department of Economic Development’s website or through its offices. Make sure the name is available and approved.
- Preparing documents : Prepare and collect the required documents such as the passport, Emirates ID card, lease contract for the company’s headquarters, and copies of other legal documents such as academic certificates or special licenses (if necessary).
- Submitting a registration application : Fill out the commercial registration application form through the electronic services portal of the Department of Economic Development, and submit all required documents.
- Application review : Your application will be reviewed by the Department of Economic Development, and may require obtaining additional approvals from other parties depending on the type of activity.
- Payment of fees : Pay the fees required to register the commercial registry. Fees usually include the costs of issuing a business license and any associated additional fees.
- Receiving the commercial register : After processing the application and paying the fees, you will receive the commercial register for your company, which authorizes you to start practicing business activity legally.
- Registration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry : After obtaining the commercial registration, register your company with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry to obtain membership and associated privileges.
- Obtaining other licenses : You may need to obtain additional licenses or permits specific to your business depending on the type of business.
By following these steps, you can open a commercial register in Dubai and establish your business legally and orderly.
How to establish a company in Dubai with the help of Itqan Company
Establishing a company in Dubai with the help of Itqan Company can be a smooth and simplified process thanks to its specialized services. Here’s how to do it:
- Contact Itqan Company to obtain an initial consultation about the type of company you wish to establish, the commercial activity, and the best suitable areas or free zones.
- Itqan will help you choose the most appropriate type of company, whether it is a limited liability company, a sole proprietorship, or another company, based on your needs and market requirements.
- Itqan will help you determine the business activity you want to practice and register the required trade name in accordance with the laws of the Department of Economic Development.
- Itqan will guide you through preparing and collecting the necessary documents such as passport, ID card, lease contract for the company’s headquarters, and any other legal documents.
- Itqan will submit an application to establish the company on your behalf to the relevant government agencies, including the Department of Economic Development.
- Itqan will undertake the task of obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to practice commercial activity, which may include special permits from other government agencies depending on the type of activity.
- Itqan will help you pay the fees related to establishing the company, including registration and licensing fees.
- After completing all procedures and paying the fees, you will receive your company’s commercial registration through Itqan, allowing you to start practicing commercial activity.
- Itqan will also help you register with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry to obtain membership and complete the necessary procedures.
After establishing the company, Itqan provides additional support services such as license renewals, legal amendments, and management consultations, to ensure that your business continues smoothly.
By using Itqan Company’s services, you can benefit from their expertise and experience in simplifying the company establishment process and providing full support to ensure the success of your business in Dubai.
In conclusion, opening a commercial registry in Dubai is a crucial step for any investor or entrepreneur looking to take advantage of the economic opportunities offered by this global city. By understanding the procedures followed and complying with legal requirements, you can successfully establish your company and enjoy an encouraging business environment that supports growth and expansion. The advantages offered by Dubai, such as facilitation of procedures, tax exemptions, and advanced infrastructure, contribute to creating an ideal environment for business. With the presence of consulting companies such as Itqan, the process of opening the commercial register becomes smoother and easier, as they provide you with full support from submitting applications to receiving the commercial register and preparing the necessary licenses.
Frequently asked questions about opening a commercial register in Dubai
What is a commercial register?
A commercial registry is an official document issued by government agencies in Dubai that proves a company’s registration and commercial activity, and is considered necessary to conduct business legally.
What are the documents required to open a commercial register in Dubai?
Documents required usually include: passport, Emirates ID card, office lease contract, copies of other legal documents such as academic certificates or special licenses, and sometimes additional approvals depending on the type of activity.
How long does it take to issue a commercial registration?
The time it takes may vary based on the type of business and the type of company. Typically, the process can take from several days to several weeks.
Is it possible to open a commercial register in Dubai without having a physical headquarters?
It is possible to open a commercial register in some free zones without the need for a permanent physical headquarters, as these zones provide virtual office services. However, some activities may require a physical location.