Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), this licence authorises your business activities within the city and ensures compliance with local regulations.

A trade licence in Dubai provides a broad scope of permissible activities under a single permit, making it an essential asset for business owners. Whether you are involved in trading, manufacturing, or offering professional services, the right trade licence will ensure your business is legally recognised.

Types of Trade Licences in Dubai

Dubai offers various types of trade licences to cater to different industries. Whether you are starting a new venture or expanding an existing one, choosing the right licence is crucial for seamless operations.

1. Commercial Trade Licence

A commercial trade licence is for businesses involved in buying, selling, or trading goods and services. This includes:

• Importing and exporting products
• Conducting brokerage operations
• Managing rental services

Even if your enterprise trades internationally, this licence is essential as it legally empowers your business to engage in commercial transactions both within and outside the UAE.

2. Professional Trade Licence

A professional trade licence is for individuals or companies offering specialised services based on expertise and qualifications. Covered activities include:

• Consultancy services
• Healthcare
• Auditing
• Digital marketing
• Hands-on services such as carpentry, beauty salons, and graphic design

One of the key benefits of this licence is that it allows 100% foreign ownership, giving you full control over your business. It also enables you to offer services directly to the government and participate in government contracts.

3. Industrial Trade Licence

An industrial trade licence is required for businesses engaged in manufacturing or industrial activities. This is essential if your company produces goods from raw materials, such as:

• Food
• Textiles
• Metals
• Paper
• Petroleum products

This licence allows you to import raw materials, process them, package the final products, and manage the sale and export of these goods. However, to obtain this licence, your business must have a physical office space in Dubai.

4. Tourism Trade Licence

With Dubai being a premier tourist destination, the government has introduced a tourism trade licence to regulate businesses within this sector. It applies to:

• Travel agencies
• Hotels and guest houses
• Tour operators
• Cruise boat rentals

If your business involves organising tours, operating tourist camps, or providing hospitality services, obtaining this licence is mandatory. It ensures compliance with local standards and maintains the high quality and safety levels associated with Dubai’s tourism industry.

Selecting the appropriate trade licence is a crucial step in setting up your business in Dubai. Each type of licence caters to specific activities, ensuring that businesses operate legally and efficiently. Get in touch with us today let us help you navigate the process smoothly and obtain the necessary approvals.

Ruben Mendes is a Relationship Manager at Luxe Incorporations.
[email protected]
+971 50 489 2247