MAINLAND LICENCES
CHOOSE THE RIGHT DUBAI MAINLAND LICENCE
Our specialists will assist you in selecting the most suitable and advantageous Dubai mainland license for your company, whether it’s commercial, industrial, or professional.
Mainland Licences
The basic requirement for all mainland business activities in the UAE is to obtain a license in one of these categories:
Just like in many other parts of the world, entrepreneurs and companies must obtain a trade license to legally establish their mainland business in the United Arab Emirates. This trade license must be acquired before commencing any business activities and is required for both free zone jurisdictions and Mainland Dubai. A trade license in Dubai confirms to your customers that you are a legitimate business in compliance with local laws and regulations.
While there are several steps involved in registering your business on the mainland, securing a trade license is the most crucial aspect of the setup process.
When starting a new business in the UAE, acquiring the correct trade license is essential for ensuring your mainland company is properly established for long-term success. The type of business activities, company structure, and jurisdiction where you will operate can influence the type of trade license you need and the associated requirements.
Below are the three types of trade licenses to consider as you begin the company formation process and establish a mainland business in Dubai
Types of mainland trade licence
Professional Trade License
In the UAE, businesses and entrepreneurs must obtain a professional trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) before they can offer their professional services on the Dubai mainland. This license is essential to prove that the individual or business is qualified to provide services in a specific profession, often requiring the demonstration of relevant skills or training.
Commercial Trade License
Companies involved in buying and selling goods, or any trade activities, need a commercial trade license to operate in the UAE. This license supports the formation of an LLC or a sole establishment and covers both specialized and general trading activities. Various sectors, including broadcasting, communications, rental transportation services, retail, construction, healthcare, real estate, and general trading, all require a commercial trade license
Industrial Trade License
Businesses focusing on industrial or manufacturing activities must acquire an industrial trade license. This license allows companies to engage in converting natural materials or incorporating resources into their products. While issued by the DED, additional approvals might be required from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and other relevant authorities depending on the industrial activity.
For mainland company formation in Dubai, a professional trade license allows for the establishment of various structures, including:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): Where a local sponsor holds 51% of the shares.
- Civil Company and Sole Establishment: Where foreign investors can hold 100% ownership.
However, for Civil Companies and Sole Establishments, a UAE national must be appointed as a local service agent (LSA) to complete the legal formalities
Get Expert Help with Your Dubai Business Setup
Navigating the licensing and regulatory requirements for setting up a business in Dubai can be complex. Consulting with a business setup specialist ensures you meet all licensing and regulatory requirements for your specific business activity.
As a leading corporate service provider in the UAE, Dawleygroup is here to assist you with obtaining the right Dubai mainland license, setting you up for future growth and success. We also offer value-added business support services to help your company start strong and thrive in a competitive market.
Need help choosing the right trade license for your business? Contact us today, and our team will guide you through the process.
Requirements to Obtain a UAE Trade License
When applying for a mainland license in Dubai, you must go through the Dubai Economic Department and meet the following requirements:
- Determine the business category: professional, commercial, or industrial.
- Define the type of business activity.
- Choose the legal structure of the business entity.
- Decide on the trade name of your business.
Additional steps include:
- Registering the trade name with the local Department of Economic Development.
- Registering the trademark with the Ministry of Economy (if applicable).
- Completing and signing a Memorandum of Association (MoA) or a local service agent agreement (LSA), as required for specific business legal forms such as:
- Limited Partnership
- Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC)
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Private Joint Stock Company (PrJSC)