Every investor in Dubai wants to know all the details about how to open a commercial register in Dubai because it is a crucial step for individuals and companies wishing to invest in this modern and thriving city. Dubai offers an ideal investment environment, where investors can obtain diverse and promising opportunities in various economic sectors. By cooperating with Itqan Company, individuals and companies can obtain the support and assistance necessary to open a commercial register in Dubai in a smooth and efficient manner. Itqan Company provides services that include providing advice in choosing the appropriate type of company, assistance in preparing the necessary documents, and providing the necessary legal and tax support. This article will discuss the basic and important steps that must be followed to open a commercial register in Dubai, in addition to the vital role that Itqan Company provides in facilitating this process and making it smoother and more successful.

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ToggleSteps to open a commercial register in Dubai
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires compliance with several steps and procedures. Here’s how to open a commercial register in Dubai:
- Choosing a business: Select the type of business you want to practice. You must ensure that the activity is available and permitted in Dubai.
- Choosing a Business Name: Choose an appropriate business name and make sure it complies with local laws and regulations. You can check the availability of names through the Dubai Department of Economic Development website.
- Apply for a license: You may need to apply for a license from the relevant regulatory authority within your business. In Dubai, the relevant authority could be the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) or a specific free zone if you plan to register with one.
- Preparing the required documents: You may need to submit documents such as a passport photo, a personal photo, an office rental contract, and a power of attorney if there is an agent submitting on your behalf.
- Obtaining other approvals: You may need to obtain additional approvals from the competent authorities depending on the type of activity, such as the Ministry of Health or the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing in Dubai.
- Registration with the Department of Commerce: After obtaining licenses and confirming the papers, register the company with the local Department of Commerce.
- Obtaining a work permit: Obtain a work permit from the Dubai Labor Department, which is the authority responsible for regulating labor affairs in the region.
- Tax Registration: You may need to register your company for taxes if this service is available in Dubai.
- Opening a bank account: Open a bank account in the company’s name in a local bank.
- Comprehensive Compliance: Ensure compliance with all regulations and laws related to your business.
Requirements for opening a commercial register in the Emirate of Dubai
To open a commercial register in Dubai , you must follow several steps and submit the required documents. Steps and requirements may change depending on the type of activity and the relevant regulatory body. Here is a summary of the requirements needed to open a commercial registry in Dubai:
- Choosing a business: Define your business carefully, and make sure that it complies with the regulations and laws in the Emirate of Dubai.
- Determine the regulatory body: Identify the regulatory body responsible for your business, whether it is the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED) or a private free zone.
- Choosing the legal form: You may need to choose the legal form of the business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, a limited company, or a joint stock company.
- Submit an application for a license: Submit an application for a license from the relevant authority. If working with the Dubai Department of Economic Development, you can submit the application online or directly at their offices.
- Prepare documents: You may need to provide necessary documents such as a copy of your passport, personal photos, a copy of the rental contract (if you are renting an office), and a tax form.
- Payment of fees: Pay the fees required to submit the application and obtain the license.
- Additional approvals: In some cases, you may need to obtain additional approvals from different parties depending on the business activity.
- Determine the location of the business: Determine the location of the business and ensure a valid lease is available.
- Trademark Registration: You may need to register your trademark if you plan to do so.
- Obtaining a business license: After obtaining a business license, you may need to obtain a work license from the Dubai Labor Department.
- Opening a bank account: Open a bank account in the company’s name in a local bank.
- Tax Compliance: Be sure to register with the Tax Department if this service is available.
Commercial activities permitted in a commercial registry in Dubai
The type of business activities that can be registered in a Dubai commercial registry depends on several factors, including the business activity you wish to engage in and the regulatory body responsible for registering it in the Emirate of Dubai. Here are some common business activities that can be registered with a commercial registry in Dubai:
- General trade: includes buying and selling a wide range of products.
- Professional services: such as engineering consulting, legal services, financial services, interior design, and real estate services.
- E-commerce: Activities related to e-commerce and online shopping can be recorded.
- Manufacturing and Production: Business activities associated with manufacturing and production can be registered.
- Construction and Engineering: Includes construction and engineering activities.
- Medicine and Healthcare: Activities related to medicine and healthcare can be registered.
- Education and Training: Activities related to education and training can be recorded.
- Restaurants and Hospitality: Includes restaurant, hotel and logistics activities.
- Technology and information technology: includes programming activities, software development, and digital services.
- Arts and Entertainment: Includes the arts, entertainment industry, and music.
Documents required to open a commercial register in Dubai
To open a commercial register in Dubai, you will usually need to submit a set of required documents. These documents can vary based on the type of company, business activity and regulatory body involved. Here is a general list of common documents you may need to open a commercial registry in Dubai:
- Application Form: An official application form must be completed provided by the relevant regulatory body, such as the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant authority in a particular free zone.
- Copy of Passport: A colored copy of a valid passport of the owner or general manager of the company.
- Personal photo: A recent personal photo of the owner or general manager.
- Lease agreement form: If you are using an office, you will need a copy of the office lease.
- Tenant License (Ejari): If using an office, you will need a Tenant License (Ejari), which is a document proving the registration of the lease with the Dubai Land Department.
- Business Plan: You may need to submit a detailed business plan explaining the company’s activity and future goals.
- Copy of criminal penalties: A certified copy of the owner or general manager’s criminal penalties.
- Authorization (if there is an agent): If there is someone authorized to submit on behalf of the owner, you will need an official authorization document.
- A copy of the previous work license (if available): If the work license is transferred from another place in Dubai, you may need a copy of the previous licence.
- Registration and license fees: You must pay the fees required to register the company and obtain the necessary licenses.

Legal and tax obligations after opening the commercial registry in Dubai?
After opening the commercial registry in Dubai , the company must adhere to several legal and tax laws and controls to ensure successful operation and compliance with local authorities. Here are some legal and tax obligations that companies must adhere to:
Legal obligations
- Compliance with local regulations: The company must adhere to all local regulations and regulations that regulate its activity.
- License renewal: Ensure that the work permit and necessary licenses are renewed on time.
- Submitting annual reports: There may be a need to submit annual reports to the regulatory body or local authorities.
- Compliance with labor regulations: Compliance with labor laws in Dubai including working hours, vacations, and working conditions.
- Compliance with tax laws: Adhere to local tax legislation and submit tax reports and returns on time.
- Maintaining Accounting Records: A company must maintain accurate accounting records for financial reporting and tax purposes.
Tax obligations
- Company registration for taxes: Register with the local tax department and obtain a tax number if this service is available.
- Submitting tax returns: Submitting annual and monthly tax returns by the specified deadlines.
- Commitment to tax rates: Paying taxes due on time according to the applicable tax rates.
- Verifying tax details for purchases and sales: Verifying that all invoices and accounting records contain the required tax details.
- Application of tax transfer (VAT) rules: If value added tax (VAT) applies, all VAT rules and controls must be adhered to.
- Submitting financial reports: Submitting the required financial reports to the tax authorities.
The importance of the commercial register in establishing companies in Dubai
The commercial registry plays an essential role in establishing companies in Dubai , and is of great importance, which is evident in the following points:
1. Legal registration of the company: The commercial register is the official document that recognizes the existence of the company as a legal legal person. Without a commercial register, a company cannot legally conduct business or sign contracts.
2. Compliance with legal requirements: Establishing a company in Dubai requires compliance with legal requirements, including registering with the Department of Economic Development and obtaining a commercial register. This helps companies avoid legal violations and fines.
3. Opening bank accounts: Many banks in Dubai require the submission of a commercial register as a prerequisite for opening company bank accounts. Without this record, it is difficult for a company to manage its finances and conduct banking transactions.
4. Dealing with government agencies: The commercial register is necessary to deal with various government agencies, such as submitting taxes, obtaining the necessary permits, and submitting the required reports.
5. Facilitating expansion and growth: Having a commercial register facilitates the company’s expansion and growth process. A company can use the commercial register to make changes in activity, expand its scope of work, or even open new branches.
6. Financing and investment: When searching for financing or attracting investors, the commercial register is considered an essential document that proves the seriousness and legitimacy of the company. Investors and lenders prefer to deal with legally registered companies.
7. Trademark protection: Company registration and commercial registry enhance the company’s brand protection and prevent others from using the same trade name or activity, thus preserving intellectual property rights.
8. Enhancing trust and credibility: Having a commercial register contributes to building trust and credibility between the company, customers and business partners. Clients and partners tend to deal with registered and legally recognized companies.
In the end, the commercial register is not just a document, but rather an essential element in the process of establishing and managing businesses in Dubai, and enhances the ability of companies to succeed and grow in the market.
Learn how to open a commercial register in Dubai
In conclusion, opening a commercial register in Dubai in cooperation with Itqan Company is a crucial step for individuals and companies aspiring to succeed in the dynamic business environment that the city provides. By cooperating with Itqan, investors can obtain the support and guidance necessary to overcome challenges and successfully achieve their goals.
Itqan Company provides a comprehensive range of services that include the stages of opening a commercial register, from choosing the appropriate business activity and preparing the necessary documents, to providing legal and tax advice. The company also helps in facilitating the comprehensive construction process, ensuring that business begins with the least amount of obstacles.
Besides, Dubai provides an ideal investment environment, as it has advanced infrastructure, facilitating commercial laws and active financial markets, making it an ideal destination for business. Thanks to these factors, investors can achieve sustainable success in Dubai, with the support of Itqan and other consulting and facilitation companies that contribute to enhancing trade and investment in the region.
Frequently asked questions about how to open a commercial register in Dubai
What are the documents required to open a commercial register in Dubai?
Required documents usually include a copy of the passport, a personal photo, the lease contract, the company’s articles of incorporation and articles of association (if it is a new company), and initial approval of the trade name and activity.
Can foreigners open a commercial register in Dubai?
Yes, foreigners can open a commercial register in Dubai. There are many options such as free zones that allow full foreign ownership without the need for a local partner.
What is the cost of opening a commercial register in Dubai?
The cost varies based on the type of business and location. Costs include registration fees, licensing fees, and office rental costs. An accurate estimate of costs can be obtained through consultation with the Department of Economic Development or service providers such as Atqan.
How long does it take to obtain a commercial registration in Dubai?
Opening a commercial register in Dubai can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the completion of the required documents and approvals.