Trade License in UAE
Trade License in UAE
A Trade License is a mandatory legal document required to operate any business in the UAE. Whether you’re starting a trading company, professional consultancy, manufacturing unit, or an online venture, obtaining the correct UAE Trade License is essential to operate legally and gain customer trust.At Almalia Consulting FZCO, we make the Trade License process simple, fast, and stress-free. Our expert team will help you choose the right type of license—Commercial, Professional, or Industrial—based on your business activity. We also guide you in selecting the most suitable jurisdiction: Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore.
From preparing documentation and submitting applications to coordinating with UAE authorities and ensuring compliance, we manage every step of the process for you. With deep local knowledge and years of experience, we ensure your business setup is smooth and fully compliant with UAE regulations.
Types of Trade Licenses Offered by Almalia Consulting FZCO
Commercial Trade License – For businesses involved in buying and selling goods, import/export, retail, wholesale, and general trading. Ideal for trading companies and product-based businesses.
Industrial Trade License – For businesses engaged in manufacturing, production, or industrial activities. This includes factories, assembly plants, and any company transforming raw materials into finished products
Professional Trade License – For individuals or firms offering services based on professional skills or Advisors —such as consultants, IT services, designers, marketing agencies, legal firms, and educators.
Convert Existing Trade License to 100% Ownership – No Local Sponsor Needed – Take full control of your business in the UAE. Almalia Consulting FZCO helps you legally remove your local sponsor and restructure your company for 100% foreign ownership.
Documents Required to Obtain a Trade License in UAE
Passport Copies of Shareholders and Managers – Clear, valid passport copies of all shareholders, directors, and designated managers must be submitted. Each passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of application.
UAE Residence Visa & Emirates ID (if applicable) – If any shareholder or manager is a resident of the UAE, you must include a copy of their valid residence visa and Emirates ID. These documents help validate your local status and identity.
Proof of Address – A recent proof of residential address—such as a utility bill, tenancy contract, or bank statement—is often required. This document should be in English (or officially translated) and dated within the last 90 days.
Passport-Sized Photographs – Recent, high-resolution passport-size photographs of the shareholders and managers are required. The photos must adhere to UAE official standards (white background, no headgear unless for religious reasons).
Proposed Company Name & Business Activity Details – You will need to provide 2–3 proposed trade names that comply with UAE naming conventions, along with a detailed description of your intended business activities. The final name is subject to availability and approval by the licensing authority.
Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA / AOA) – These are key legal documents that outline the company’s ownership structure, responsibilities of shareholders, and operational guidelines. For Mainland licenses, these documents must be notarized and signed by all shareholders.
Initial Approval from Licensing Authority – Before proceeding with the full license process, you must obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the relevant Free Zone Authority. This approval confirms that your business activity and trade name are accepted in principle.
Lease Agreement / Ejari Certificate (for Mainland Licenses) – For Mainland business setups, you must present a valid tenancy contract for your office or business premises. This contract must be registered with the Ejari system in Dubai or the equivalent system in other emirates. It serves as proof of your company’s physical location.
How We Help You Obtain Your Trade License in UAE
Free Business Structuring Advice – We begin by understanding your business model, goals, and market focus. Based on this, we recommend the ideal license type—commercial, professional, or industrial—and help you choose between mainland, free zone, or offshore setup.
Company Name Reservation & Initial Approvals – We assist in selecting and reserving a compliant trade name that aligns with UAE regulations. We then obtain initial approvals from the relevant licensing authority to move your application forward.
Preparation of Legal Documents – Our team drafts and notarizes all required documentation, including the Memorandum of Association and application forms, ensuring full compliance with UAE commercial laws.
Trade License Application & Issuance – We compile and submit your complete application, respond to authority queries, and manage the process until your official trade license is issued.
Office Space & Establishment Card – Whether you need a flexi-desk or physical office, we arrange it and register your lease (Ejari for mainland setups). We also obtain your company establishment card to enable visa processing.
Visa & Bank Account Support – We handle investor and employee visa applications and assist in preparing the documents needed to open your UAE corporate bank account with ease.
Ongoing Compliance – From annual renewals and license amendments to tax and regulatory updates, we help you stay fully compliant year after year.
Why Choose Almalia Consulting for Trade License in UAE?
Trusted Professionals in UAE Licensing – We’ve guided startups, SMEs, and international businesses in securing trade licenses across all UAE jurisdictions, offering tailored advice based on your business activity and goals.
Clear Pricing & Quick Turnaround – With no hidden costs, our transparent fee structure and strong government ties allow us to process most trade licenses within 5–10 working days.
End-to-End Business Support – Beyond licensing, we assist with visas, banking, accounting, tax registration, and ongoing compliance—ensuring your business is set up and supported from day one.
Data Protection & Legal Assurance – Your personal and business information is safeguarded in full alignment with UAE confidentiality and compliance laws.
Frequently Asked Question
What is a trade license in the UAE?
A trade license is an official legal document issued by the UAE government that permits an individual or company to carry out specific commercial, professional, or industrial activities.
Do I need a local sponsor for a UAE trade license?
Not always. Thanks to recent reforms, many business activities in the UAE mainland now allow 100% foreign ownership without the need for a local Emirati sponsor.
How long does it take to get a trade license?
The timeline typically ranges from 5 to 10 working days, depending on the chosen jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), the type of license, and whether all required documents are in order.
Can I operate across the UAE with a free zone trade license?
A free zone trade license allows you to conduct business within that specific free zone and internationally.
How do I start the process of getting a trade license?
Simply reach out to us at Almalia Consulting. We will assess your business needs, advise on the most suitable legal structure (mainland, free zone, or offshore), prepare and submit all required documents, and handle every step of the application