How to Obtain a Commercial, Professional, or Industrial License in Dubai. Starting a business in Dubai opens doors to global markets, strong infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies. However, before launching, you must choose and obtain the right business license. Whether you plan to trade, offer services, or manufacture goods, Dubai offers three main license types: Commercial License, Professional License, and Industrial License.
This guide from Black Swan Business Setup Service explains every step clearly, using simple English and practical details.
Why Business Licensing Matters in Dubai
Dubai regulates all business activities through official licensing. Therefore, a valid license:
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Makes your business legal
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Builds trust with customers and banks
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Allows you to open a business bank account
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Lets you apply for visas and contracts
Moreover, the correct license ensures you operate within UAE law and avoid penalties.
Types of Business Licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers three main business license categories:
| License Type | Best For | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial License | Trading activities | Import, export, retail, general trading |
| Professional License | Services & skills | Consulting, IT services, education |
| Industrial License | Manufacturing | Factories, food processing, packaging |
Each license supports specific activities. Therefore, choosing the right one is your first step.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
First, identify what your business will do. Dubai authorities list over 2,000 approved activities. For example:
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Trading clothes → Commercial License
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Offering design services → Professional License
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Producing furniture → Industrial License
After that, match your activity with the correct license type. Choosing wrong may delay your approval.
Step 2: Select Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore
Next, decide where you want to register:
Mainland
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Trade anywhere in UAE
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Work with government contracts
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Higher setup cost
Free Zone
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100% foreign ownership
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Tax benefits
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Limited to zone activities
Offshore
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No physical office needed
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Used for holding companies
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No local business trading
Therefore, your business goals decide the best location.
Step 3: Reserve Your Trade Name
Now choose a unique business name. It must:
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Not offend religion or culture
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Not copy existing brands
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Match your activity
For example:
“Black Swan Business Setup Service LLC” works well because it is clear and professional.
After approval, the name stays reserved for your registration.
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
Initial approval means Dubai authorities agree with your business idea. At this stage, you submit:
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Passport copies of owners
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Visa status
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Trade name
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Business activity
After that, you can move forward with office space and documents.
Step 5: Prepare Legal Documents
Now you must prepare:
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Memorandum of Association (MOA)
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Local service agent agreement (if needed)
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Tenancy contract (Ejari)
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NOC if you are under UAE visa
Each license type needs different paperwork. Therefore, expert guidance saves time.
Step 6: Secure Office Space
Dubai requires a registered business address. Options include:
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Physical office
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Shared workspace
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Virtual office (in some zones)
However, Industrial License needs warehouse or factory space.
Step 7: Final License Submission
Finally, submit all documents and pay government fees. After approval, you receive your license and start operations.
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Commercial License in Dubai
A Commercial License suits businesses involved in trading. For example:
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Import/export
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Wholesale
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Retail
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E-commerce
Requirements:
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Office space
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Trade name
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Shareholder details
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Activity approval
Benefits:
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Wide activity choices
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Easy business expansion
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Access to local and global markets
Professional License in Dubai
A Professional License is for skilled services. For example:
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Consultants
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Designers
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IT experts
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Trainers
Key Features:
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100% foreign ownership
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Local service agent (no ownership)
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Lower setup cost
Best For:
Freelancers, service providers, and specialists.
Industrial License in Dubai
An Industrial License suits manufacturing businesses.
Activities Include:
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Food production
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Garment factories
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Plastic or metal manufacturing
Requirements:
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Factory or warehouse
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Environmental approvals
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Municipality inspection
Benefits:
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Access to industrial zones
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Export incentives
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Support from government programs
Estimated License Costs in Dubai
| License Type | Approx Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Commercial License | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Professional License | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Industrial License | 25,000 – 50,000 |
Costs vary based on location, activity, and office size.
Timeline to Get a Dubai License
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Trade Name Approval | 1–2 Days |
| Initial Approval | 2–3 Days |
| Document Setup | 3–5 Days |
| Final License | 3–7 Days |
Total time: Around 7–14 working days
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Choosing wrong activity
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Using rejected trade names
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Missing approvals
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Renting office before initial approval
Therefore, planning saves both money and time.
Why Choose Black Swan Business Setup Service?
Black Swan Business Setup Service helps you:
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Choose the right license
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Prepare documents
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Deal with authorities
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Save time and cost
Moreover, their expert team ensures smooth and fast processing.
Conclusion
Starting a business in Dubai becomes easy when you follow the right steps. First, choose your activity. Then, select the correct Commercial License, Professional License, or Industrial License. After that, complete approvals, rent office space, and receive your license.
With expert help from Black Swan Business Setup Service, your business journey in Dubai can begin smoothly, legally, and confidently.
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