Services
Business Licenses
Setting up a business in the UAE is an exciting opportunity thanks to its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and efficient digital government systems. Whether you're opening a physical store, launching an online brand, or setting up a consultancy, obtaining the correct business license is mandatory to operate legally.
Below is a comprehensive overview of the types of licenses, legal structures, and key steps to help you get started.
Types of Business Licenses in the UAE
1. Normal License
- Suitable for traditional businesses with a physical location
- Requires a lease agreement and a memorandum of association (MoA)
- Application processed through service centres or online via the DED portal
2. Instant License
Issued within 5-10 minutes for businesses that do not need external approvals
No lease contract required for the first year (virtual office is allowed)
Includes:
- Dubai Chamber membership
- Establishment card from GDRFA
- MOHRE card (to hire up to 3 employees)
- Available for: LLC, LLC-SO, Sole Establishment, and Civil Company
3. eTrader License
- Designed for home-based online businesses in Dubai
- Issued as a sole establishment license
- Apply via the Invest in Dubai portal
- Fees: AED 1070 + AED 300 (Dubai Chamber)
Required Documents:
The documents vary depending on the license type:
For a Normal License:
- Emirates ID and passport copy
- Initial approval certificate
- Trade name reservation
- MoA (signed electronically or manually)
- Lease contract (Ejari for Dubai)
- Approvals from other authorities (if required)
For an Instant License:
- Emirates ID or Unified Number
- No lease agreement required (virtual office acceptable)
- Trade name reservation
For an eTrader License:
- Emirates ID
- UAE residency
- Registered trade name
Legal Forms to Consider
Your business structure must match your activity type. Common legal forms include:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Civil Company
- Private or Public Joint Stock Company
- Branch of a foreign company
Each form comes with different legal obligations, ownership rights, and setup procedures.
Key Steps to Get Your License
1. Identify your business activity
Choose from over 2,000 listed activities across various sectors (commercial, industrial, professional, etc.)
2. Choose a legal structure
Based on the number of owners and the nature of the business
3. Reserve and register a trade name
Must be unique, relevant, and approved by the DED
4. Get initial approval
Indicates the government’s no objection to starting your business (not a permit to operate)
5. Prepare MoA (if required)
Required for LLCs, partnerships, and joint stock companies
6. Secure office space
The lease agreement is registered and compliant with the municipality's zoning rules
7. Get external approvals (if needed)
For regulated sectors (healthcare, legal, education, etc.)
8. Submit final documents and pay fees
Finalise your application and receive your commercial license
Business License Fees in the UAE
- Fees vary depending on:
- Type of license
- Business activity
- Emirate of registration
- Required government approvals
For updated fee details, visit the official DED or the relevant emirate’s economic department portal.
How Long Does It Take?
- Instant License: ~5 minutes
- Normal License: ~1–3 business days (after approvals)
- eTrader License: ~3–5 business days
- Full company setup(with external approvals) up to several weeks
Where to Apply
You can apply via:
- Official DED portals for other emirates
- Authorised service centres across the UAE
Call AKW Real Estate on +971 52 334 3345 or email us at admin@akw.ae
Our consultants are ready to assist you.
