Dubai is one of the most attractive destinations for commercial investment in the world, providing a dynamic and thriving business environment. The process of opening a commercial register and obtaining a commercial license are essential steps that any investor or entrepreneur must follow to start their project in this vibrant city.
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires a number of legal procedures aimed at regulating commercial activities and ensuring compliance with local laws. This step is essential for any business, whether small or large, as it gives individuals and companies the legitimacy necessary to conduct business.
The process of opening a commercial register in Dubai includes determining the type of commercial activity that the investor wishes to practice, which can range from general trade to specialized activities. The investor must then choose a suitable trade name that matches the proposed activities, while adhering to the terms and standards in force in Dubai.
After determining the name and activity, it is time to submit the necessary applications to the relevant authorities, which include the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the relevant government departments. The applications are studied and verified, and after approval, the commercial register and commercial license are issued, allowing investors to officially start their activities.
In addition, Dubai offers many advantages to investors, such as tax exemptions, diverse business opportunities, and advanced infrastructure, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to achieve success in the business world. Understanding the procedures and requirements necessary to open a commercial register and a trade license in Dubai is an important first step towards achieving business ambitions.

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ToggleDocuments required to open a commercial register
To open a commercial register in the UAE, a set of documents are required to complete the process. Here are the basic documents required:
Application to open a commercial register: An official application form that can be obtained from the Department of Economic Development or from the website of the relevant authority.
Copies of passports: Valid copies of passports of all shareholders or partners in the company.
Copies of Emirates ID: Copies of the Emirates ID of the founders and investors (if they are residents of the UAE).
Memorandum of Association: A document that includes details of the establishment of the company, such as the trade name, type of activity, and percentage of shareholders.
No Objection Certificate: If one of the founders is an employee, a No Objection Certificate may be required from the employer.
Proof of Address: A document proving the address of the company’s headquarters, such as an office lease or property ownership contract.
Power of Attorney: If there is a legal representative, a power of attorney document confirming his or her powers must be submitted.
Business Activity Report: A detailed description of the business activity you intend to carry out.
Bank Letter: A letter from the bank may be required stating the financial balance of the founders or partners.
Additional Approvals: For some special activities, you may need approvals from other government entities.
Fees associated with opening a commercial register
Here is an overview of the fees associated with opening a commercial register in the UAE:
Registration fees: These include the application fees to open a commercial register.
Licensing fees: These are paid to obtain a commercial license, and the amount depends on the type of business activity.
Membership fees: You may be required to pay a fee to join local chambers of commerce.
Rental fees: If you have an office, you will need to pay a rental fee for the place where you will operate.
Additional service fees: Such as notarization services, translation services, or any other support services you may require.
Certification fees: These include the various certificates you may need, such as commercial certificates.
Registration renewal fees: The commercial register must be renewed annually, and this requires the payment of a renewal fee.
How to obtain commercial licenses available in Dubai
To obtain a commercial license in Dubai, you must follow the following steps:
Determine the type of license: Before starting the process of obtaining a commercial license in Dubai, you must determine the type of commercial license that is appropriate for your business activity, such as a general commercial license, a professional license, a transportation and distribution license, etc.
Choosing a company name: Choose a suitable and unique name for your company and make sure it complies with the rules and regulations of naming companies in Dubai.
Preparing the required documents: You may need to prepare documents such as passport, personal photos, lease contracts, ownership documents, and any other documents required depending on the type of license.
Submitting the application: Submit the application for the trade license to the relevant authority in Dubai, whether it is the Department of Economic Development in Dubai or one of the free zones.
Paying the fees: Pay the required fees to issue the trade license.
Wait for approval and receiving the license: After reviewing the documents and application, the license will be approved and issued to you.
Types of Commercial Licenses Available in Dubai
In Dubai, there are several types of commercial licenses, each designed to meet different business needs. Here are the most prominent types of commercial licenses available:
Commercial License: Granted to companies that operate in the trade of goods and services. Includes commercial activities, such as selling products and distributors.
Industrial License: Used for companies related to manufacturing or production. Includes businesses such as food factories and manufacturing industries.
Professional License: Granted to liberal professions, such as lawyers, accountants, and consultants. Used for businesses that rely on providing professional services.
Free Zone License: Granted to companies operating in free zones, and provides benefits such as full foreign ownership and tax exemptions. License types vary depending on the type of free zone.
Tourism License: Granted to tourism companies, such as travel agencies and hotels. Includes activities related to tourism and hospitality.
E-Commerce License: Granted to commercial activities that take place online, such as online stores.
Export License: Given to companies that export goods abroad, including commercial activities related to export.
Renewing a Commercial License in Dubai
To renew a commercial license in Dubai, a company must follow the following steps:
Submit a renewal application: The business owner or authorized manager must submit a commercial license renewal application to the relevant department in Dubai.
Pay the fees: The fees required to renew the commercial license must be paid. These fees can be paid online or through authorized agencies.
Submit the required documents: The company may need to submit some documents as part of the license renewal process. The required documents may vary depending on the type of business activity and company type.
License Inspection: After submitting the application and payment, the license will be inspected by the relevant authority in Dubai.
Receiving the renewed license: After the application is reviewed and approved, the license renewal process will be completed and the renewed license will be issued.
In conclusion, it is clear that opening a commercial register and obtaining a commercial license in Dubai is a vital step for any entrepreneur seeking to establish a successful business in the emirate’s dynamic business environment. Dubai, thanks to its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and encouraging legal environment, offers ample opportunities for local and international investors.
The process of opening a commercial register begins with determining the type of business activity and choosing the appropriate name for the company, as this plays a major role in enhancing the commercial identity. After that, the required documents must be submitted and ensured that they comply with the standards set by the competent authorities.
Obtaining a commercial license is the next stage, which requires some assessments and approvals from the relevant government agencies. These steps, although they may seem complicated, ensure that the business is conducted in accordance with local laws, which enhances the company’s credibility in the market.
Moreover, the process of opening a commercial register and a commercial license is an opportunity for the entrepreneur to build a network of business relationships and participate in local and international events, which contributes to expanding the scope of his work and increasing the chances of success.
Ultimately, entrepreneurs must be prepared to adapt to the constant changes in the business environment in Dubai. With patience and commitment, they can achieve success and growth in this market full of challenges and opportunities. So, if you are thinking of starting your business in Dubai, do not hesitate to take the first step towards achieving your business ambitions.
Top Frequently Asked Questions About Opening a Commercial Register and a Commercial License in Dubai
What is a commercial register?
A commercial register is an official document that proves the registration of a company and specifies the type of commercial activities it can practice.
What is a commercial license?
A commercial license is an official authorization granted to companies to practice specific commercial activities in Dubai.
What are the documents required to open a commercial register?
The required documents include: a copy of the passport, a personal photo, a lease contract, and a commercial plan.
Can foreigners open a commercial register in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can open a commercial register, especially in free zones.
Can I practice multiple activities with one license?
No, usually, different licenses must be obtained for each type of commercial activity.