Learn about opening a commercial register and a commercial license in Dubai, because the commercial register in Dubai today is considered an integral part of the commercial license issued by the Department of Economic Development. In the past, all merchants conducting business in the country were required to obtain a commercial register from the Ministry of Commerce, as the commercial register includes all data and details about the merchant’s transactions and the names of suppliers and companies with which he deals, but now it has become a commercial license or a license to conduct business. We will learn how to open a commercial register and a commercial license in Dubai.
This is the only legal document that includes all the data required to register companies in the Emirates. The Chamber of Commerce certificate has also become a document added to the commercial license, which serves as a commercial record.
Our work team will provide all support to you and your partners during all steps of establishing and registering the company, starting from determining the type of activity and providing the necessary economic feasibility studies to support your choice of the appropriate project, then choosing the trade name and obtaining security approval, all the way to preparing all the documents required to complete the commercial registry procedures and establishing Company in Dubai.
All you have to do is set a time to meet with our experts to discuss the details of the activity of the company you would like to establish and submit all the required personal documents to them. Then, on your behalf, we will complete all the steps with the various government bodies in order to obtain a business license, which includes the commercial registry in Dubai, in the shortest time. maybe.

جدول المحتوى
ToggleWhat is the commercial register in Dubai?
The commercial registry in Dubai is an official document proving the registration of a business or company in the emirate. This register is one of the essential documents that any business needs to start operating legally. The commercial register is issued by the Department of Economic Development in Dubai, and includes detailed information about the company such as its name, type of activity, and owners or partners. Obtaining the commercial register is considered an essential step for establishing any project in Dubai, as it allows the company to conduct business legally, and allows it to open bank accounts, sign contracts, and submit applications for additional licenses if necessary.
In addition, a commercial registration in Dubai is evidence of a company’s compliance with local laws and regulations, and contributes to building trust between customers and business partners. The type of commercial register varies based on the type of business activity, as it can be a commercial register for general commercial activities or specialized registers depending on the nature of the business. Companies are also required to renew the commercial registration regularly to ensure continuity of activity and compliance with current legal requirements. The commercial registration is also a prerequisite for enjoying many government and banking services, making it an integral part of the business environment in Dubai.
What is a trade license in Dubai?
A trade license in Dubai is a legal document that grants individuals or companies the right to conduct a specific commercial activity within the emirate. This license is issued by the Department of Economic Development in Dubai, and is considered necessary to conduct any business legally. The business license includes details about the type of activity, company name, and where it is registered. Obtaining a commercial license allows the company to carry out various commercial operations such as signing contracts, opening bank accounts, and dealing with government agencies. In addition, a commercial license contributes to enhancing credibility and professionalism, as it is considered an official certificate that reflects compliance with local laws and regulations. Regularly renewing the business license is vital to ensure the business continues legally and avoid any potential legal issues.
When applying for a business license in Dubai, companies or individuals are required to submit various documents including the rental contract for the workplace, a copy of the passport, and attestation certificates if necessary. Types of commercial licenses vary based on the business activity, such as the general commercial license, industrial license, and services license. Each type of these licenses requires specific documents and requirements according to the type of activity to be practiced.
Moreover, a commercial license facilitates dealing with other parties such as tax authorities, insurance companies, and investors, which enhances opportunities for growth and expansion. Complying with business license responsibilities, such as payment of fees and periodic renewal, is an essential part of successfully running a business in Dubai.
Types of commercial license in Dubai
Requirements can vary depending on the type of activity and scope of work, so it is important to check the specific requirements with the Dubai Department of Economic Development or the relevant authorities. Here is a table showing the types of commercial licenses in Dubai :
Type of commercial license | Activities included | Basic requirements |
---|---|---|
General commercial license | Business activities that are not specific to a specific activity or are diversified | Activity registration, lease contract, passport, and approval of the competent authorities if necessary |
Services license | Providing services such as consulting, education, maintenance, and professional services | Activity registration, lease contract, passport, and special approvals according to the type of service |
Industrial license | Manufacturing and production, heavy and light industries | Production plan, lease contract, passport, environmental and health approvals if necessary |
Retail license | Buying and selling retail goods, managing stores and shops | Lease contract, activity registration, passport, and permits for the type of sale |
Literal license | Craft activities such as carpentry, upholstery, and repair | Rental contract, passport, skill certificates if necessary |
Import and export license | Import and export of goods and products | Lease contract, passport, import and export permits, quality certificates if necessary |
How to open a commercial register and business license in Dubai
Opening a commercial register and obtaining a commercial license in Dubai are considered essential steps for anyone wishing to start a business in the emirate. This process ensures that the company operates legally and benefits from the advantages offered by Dubai’s thriving business environment. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to open a commercial register and obtain a business license in Dubai:
- Choosing a business: Before starting the registration process, you must determine the type of business activity you intend to engage in. There is a wide range of business activities that can be done in Dubai, and they should be clear and specific.
- Determine the legal form of the company: There are several legal forms of companies in Dubai, such as a limited liability company (LLC), a branch of a foreign company, or a free zone company. The choice of legal form depends on the nature of the business activity, the number of partners, and the ownership structure.
- Choosing a trade name: A trade name must be chosen that reflects the nature of the business activity and complies with the regulations and standards specified by the Department of Economic Development. The name must be unique and not similar to other company names.
- Obtaining initial approval: After choosing the trade name and determining the activity, an application must be submitted to obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development. This step requires providing some basic information about the company and partners.
- Preparing required documents: Required documents usually include copies of partners’ passports, business plan, lease contract, and forms required by the Department of Economic Development. Documents may vary slightly depending on the type of activity and legal form of the company.
- Renting a company headquarters: The company must have a physical headquarters in Dubai. This requires signing a lease contract for an office or shop according to the business activity.
- Submitting a registration application: After obtaining initial approval and preparing the required documents, the official registration application is submitted to the Department of Economic Development. This application includes all necessary information and documents.
- Payment of fees: The registration process requires payment of the prescribed fees. Fees vary based on the type of activity, legal form, and location of the company.
Advantages of opening a commercial register and commercial license in Dubai
Opening a commercial register and obtaining a commercial license in Dubai provides many advantages and benefits for companies and investors. Dubai, being one of the most important commercial and financial centers in the world, provides an outstanding business environment that supports growth and innovation. Below we review the most important advantages of opening a commercial register and commercial license in Dubai:
1. Ideal business environment: Dubai provides an ideal business environment supported by advanced infrastructure and laws that encourage investment. The city is known for its world-class facilities such as ports, airports, and modern transportation networks, making it a major center for international trade.
2. Tax breaks: One of the biggest advantages of Dubai is the tax breaks. Dubai does not impose taxes on personal income or business profits, which increases its attractiveness for local and international companies. Companies in free zones also enjoy additional tax exemptions, including exemption from corporate taxes and income taxes for up to 50 years.
3. Full foreign ownership: In free zones, foreign investors are allowed to own 100% companies without the need for a local partner. This is a huge advantage for international investors who want full control of their business.
4. Ease of establishing companies: The process of establishing companies in Dubai is easy and fast compared to many other countries. The Department of Economic Development (DED) and other stakeholders provide comprehensive support to companies during the registration process.
5. Strategic location: Dubai is located in a strategic location linking Europe, Asia and Africa, making it an ideal center for international business. The city offers access to a huge market of over a billion people within a few flying hours.
6. Advanced infrastructure: Dubai is characterized by an advanced infrastructure that includes business centers, free zones, commercial complexes, and luxury hotels. All these factors make it an attractive destination for companies seeking sustainable growth.
7. Availability of skilled workers: Dubai attracts skilled workers from all over the world thanks to its thriving economic environment and high standard of living. This skilled labor gives companies access to the best talent and skills they need to succeed.
Costs of opening a commercial register and business license in Dubai
Opening a commercial register and obtaining a commercial license in Dubai requires paying a set of fees and costs that vary based on the type of business activity, the size of the company, and the geographical location of the company. These costs include registration fees, business license fees and other additional costs that may be necessary. Here is an overview of the costs associated with opening a commercial registration and business license in Dubai:
- Initial approval fees: These fees include paying an amount to obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development to begin company establishment procedures.
- Trade name reservation fees: A fee is paid to reserve the company’s chosen trade name, as the name must be unique and not used by any other company.
- Company registration fees: These fees include the cost of registering the company in the commercial registry of the Department of Economic Development, and depend on the type of business activity and the size of the company.
- Commercial license issuance fees: After completing the registration procedures, the company must pay fees to issue the commercial license that allows it to legally practice its business activity in Dubai.
- Annual Renewal Fee: Businesses are required to pay an annual renewal fee to maintain the validity of the business license and ensure they continue to operate legally.
- Lease contract fees: Companies need to rent an office or commercial space to conduct their activity, and the costs here include lease contract fees for the commercial space.
- Special licenses and permits fees: Some businesses require additional licenses and permits from different government agencies, such as health licenses or environmental licenses.
- Costs of consulting services: Companies may need to use legal or financial consulting services to assist with registration procedures and obtaining a business license.
- Document preparation costs: These include the costs of preparing required documents such as articles of incorporation, the company’s articles of association, and other legal documents.
- Chamber of Commerce fees: After obtaining the trade license, the company must be registered with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which charges additional registration and membership fees.
- Insurance costs: Some businesses may require various insurances, such as employee health insurance or property insurance.

Our company’s role in opening a commercial register and commercial license in Dubai
Opening a commercial register and obtaining a commercial license in Dubai in cooperation with Itqan Company represents a decisive step towards achieving success in the global business market. Through Itqan’s guidance and extensive experience in the legal and economic field in Dubai, investors can benefit from integrated support in incorporation procedures and obtaining the necessary licenses. Dubai is characterized by an inspiring business environment and diverse investment resources that encourage innovation and growth, making it an ideal destination for ambitious companies.
Frequently asked questions about opening a commercial registration and business license in Dubai
What are the basic steps to open a commercial register in Dubai?
Foreign investors must first apply for an investment permit from the Department of Economic Development. Setting up a company in Dubai can also require depositing the required capital in the bank.
What types of business licenses are available in Dubai?
There are several types of commercial licenses, such as general commercial licensing, professional licensing, and industrial licensing, each of which varies depending on the business activity.
What documents are required to obtain a business license in Dubai?
Passport for investors and auditors. Commercial plan and necessary agreements. The necessary insurance and licenses from the relevant government agencies.
How can I renew my business license in Dubai?
Business owners must submit a renewal application to the Dubai Department of Economic Development before the current license expires.
What are the expected fees for opening a commercial register and obtaining a business license in Dubai?
Fees vary according to the type of license and business activity, and must be verified by the relevant government authorities.