Dubai is a renowned global business hub located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that offers various types of trade licenses to businesses wishing to operate within its mainland. These licenses are issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) and are regulated by the Federal Law No. 2 of 2015 on Commercial Companies. Understanding the different types of mainland trade licenses available in Dubai is crucial for businesses planning to establish their presence in the emirate.
Commercial Trade License: A commercial trade license is one of the most common types of mainland trade licenses in Dubai. It is issued to companies engaged in trading activities, which involve buying, selling, and distributing goods. Businesses with a commercial trade license can carry out trading activities within Dubai or the UAE. This type of license is suitable for companies involved in wholesale or retail trade, import and export, and general trading. Commercial trade licenses are further categorized into three subtypes:
- General Trading License: This allows businesses to trade in a wide range of goods, including but not limited to electronics, textiles, food items, and more. However, obtaining a general trading license in Dubai requires meeting certain additional requirements, such as having a physical office and a higher share capital.
- Specific Trading License: This restricts businesses to trade in specific types of goods or commodities. For example, a business may obtain a specific trading license for trading in only electronics, garments, or food items.
- Food Trading License: This is a specialized trade license for businesses engaged in the import, export, and trading of food items. It is required for businesses involved in the food and beverage industry, such as restaurants, cafes, catering services, and food trading companies.
Professional Trade License: A professional trade license is issued to individuals or firms providing professional services in fields such as law, accounting, engineering, consulting, healthcare, and other similar fields. This type of license allows professionals to offer their expertise and services within Dubai or the UAE. It is suitable for individuals or firms providing specialized services that require professional qualifications and expertise. Some examples of professions that require a professional trade license in Dubai include doctors, lawyers, engineers, accountants, consultants, architects, and artists.
Industrial Trade License: An industrial trade license is issued to companies engaged in manufacturing or industrial activities, such as production of goods, assembling, and manufacturing. This type of license allows businesses to establish and operate manufacturing or industrial facilities within Dubai or the UAE. It is suitable for businesses involved in manufacturing, processing, and production of goods, including factories, workshops, and manufacturing units. To obtain an industrial trade license, businesses need to meet certain requirements related to land, infrastructure, and environmental regulations, as well as obtain approvals from relevant authorities.
Tourism Trade License: A tourism trade license is issued to companies engaged in tourism and travel-related activities, such as tour operators, travel agencies, hotels, and other tourism-related businesses. This type of license allows businesses to offer tourism and travel services within Dubai or the UAE. It is suitable for businesses involved in tourism, travel, and hospitality, including travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, resorts, and travel-related service providers. Obtaining a tourism trade license in Dubai requires meeting certain requirements related to tourism regulations, safety standards, and customer protection.https://highplanservices.com/blog/start-tourism-business-in-dubai-uae/
Real Estate Trade License: A real estate trade license is issued to companies engaged in real estate activities, such as buying, selling, renting, and managing properties. This type of license allows businesses to operate in the real estate sector within Dubai or the UAE. It is suitable for businesses involved in real estate brokerage, property management, real estate development, and other real estate-related services. https://highplanservices.com/blog/explore-the-dynamic-real-estate-market-in-dubai/
It’s important to note that the requirements, procedures, and fees for obtaining mainland trade licenses may vary depending on the type of license and the nature of the business activity. It’s advisable to seek professional guidance and adhere to the regulations and requirements set by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) when applying for a mainland trade license in Dubai.