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

A Dubai trade license 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 license ensures your business complies with local laws.

To get a trade license 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 license quickly and without complications.

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

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

The government fees for a Dubai trade license start from AED 1,370, which includes the license issuance fee and membership with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. However, the total cost of a trade license 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 license through the official Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) portal. Use the Business Activity Search or the Trade License Verification tool by entering the license 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 license 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 license. 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 license.

By default, a UAE trade license 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 licenses, 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 license 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 license—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 licensed quickly.