Trade Licence Registration in Dubai – Set Up Your Business with EGSH

A Dubai trade licence is a mandatory legal document that authorises individuals or entities to conduct commercial, professional, or industrial activities in the UAE. Issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the licence ensures your business complies with local laws.

To get a trade licence in Dubai, select your business activity, reserve a trade name, choose a legal structure, and submit your application with all required documents to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Since preparing and submitting a compliant application can be challenging, EGSH offers full support as an authorised centre, guiding you through every step and ensuring you receive your trade licence quickly and without complications.

There are three main types of trade licences in Dubai: Commercial Licence (for trading activities), Professional Licence (for service-based businesses), and Industrial Licence (for manufacturing or industrial operations).

A commercial licence covers trading and general business activities, a professional licence is issued for service-based professions (e.g. consultancy), and an industrial licence is required for manufacturing or production-based operations.

The government fees for a Dubai trade licence start from AED 1,370, which includes the licence issuance fee and membership with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. However, the total cost of a trade licence in Dubai may vary depending on the business activity, number of partners, and required external approvals. Additional expenses may include office rent, document attestation, and service charges. For accurate estimates and end-to-end support, EGSH provides full consultation based on your specific business setup.

You can verify a Dubai trade licence through the official Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) portal. Use the Business Activity Search or the Trade Licence Verification tool by entering the licence number, business name, or registration details.

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) offers online platforms such as Invest in Dubai and the Dubai Business portal for new trade licence applications and renewals. However, many steps still require careful coordination due to document requirements, activity selection, tenancy contract verification, and possible additional approvals. EGSH offers full legal assistance to ensure your application is compliant and processed efficiently.

You must submit an amendment application through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) to add new business activities to your existing Dubai trade licence. This includes verifying activity compatibility, updating legal documents, and paying the applicable amendment fees. EGSH handles the entire process — from eligibility checks and documentation to official submission — ensuring full compliance with DET regulations and a smooth update to your licence.

By default, a UAE trade licence is valid for one year and must be renewed annually through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). However, two-year and three-year permits may be granted in specific cases, such as professional freelancer licences, certain free zone activities, or when offered under DET’s promotional packages. EGSH helps assess your eligibility, prepares the required documents, and submits your application to ensure your trade licence is issued with the maximum available validity.

You will need a valid passport copy, Emirates ID (for residents), tenancy contract, initial approval certificate, trade name reservation, and completed application forms. Depending on your business activity, additional documents may apply.

Suppose all documents are complete and no external approvals are required. In that case, a standard UAE trade licence—issued under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)—can be registered within 3 to 5 working days. EGSH ensures your application is correctly prepared and submitted, reducing delays and helping you get the licenced quickly.