Is commercial license and trade license same? Operating a business in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) requires a trade license. In Dubai, the two most common types of trade licenses are the Commercial License and the Professional License, both essential for foreign investors to establish their businesses in the UAE.

This article will delve into the distinctions between a Commercial License and a Professional License, highlighting their benefits and the steps to set up a business in the UAE.

Understanding the Difference: Commercial License vs. Professional License

Is commercial license and trade license same?

Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), both licenses regulate business activities in Dubai. However, they serve different purposes:

• Commercial License: This license is necessary for trading activities, including import/export and retail.
• Professional License: Aimed at service-oriented businesses, this license is for individuals or companies offering specialized expertise.

Key differences include:

• Ownership:
  • Commercial License: Foreign investors can own up to 49% of the business, with a mandatory 51% owned by an Emirati national.
  • Professional License: Foreign investors can own 100% of the business.
• Share Capital:
  • Commercial License: Requires a minimum share capital of AED 300,000.
  • Professional License: Requires a minimum share capital of AED 150,000.
• Government License Fees:
  • Commercial License: Higher fees compared to Professional Licenses.
• Liability:
  • Commercial License: Limited liability.
  • Professional License: Unlimited liability unless converted to an LLC.

Advantages of a Commercial License: is commercial license and trade license same?

• Allows up to ten activities under one license.
• Offers various company registration options.
• Provides local government support.
• Facilitates employee and management residence visas.
• Simplifies the process of opening corporate bank accounts.
• Easy renewal process.

Advantages of a Professional License: is commercial license and trade license same?

• Fixed annual fee.
• Greater transparency with clients.
• Provides employee residence visas.

Steps to Set Up a Business in the UAE

Step 1: Partner with Dubai Business Service

Engage with a local company setup agency like Dubai Business Service to manage all aspects of your business setup, including activities, documentation, and trade licenses.

Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure

Select an appropriate legal structure and apply for a company license in a Free Trade Zone for maximum benefits and support.

Step 3: Choose and Register a Business Name

Dubai Business Service will assist in choosing and registering your business name, ensuring compliance with UAE naming regulations.

Step 4: Notarize Documentation and Submit Trade License Application

After name approval, notarize the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) with the DED. Submit these documents along with your business plan and completed application form.

Step 5: Obtain Visas

Dubai Business Service will guide you through obtaining residency visas for yourself and your dependents.

Step 6: Choose a Premises

If applicable, find the right rental premises and complete a tenancy contract with the assistance of Dubai Business Service.

Working with Dubai Business Service

Setting up a business in the UAE can be complex. Partnering with Dubai Business Service ensures a streamlined process, avoiding unnecessary delays or rejections. Provide basic documentation and information about your business, and let the experts handle the rest, from trade license and visa applications to communicating with relevant authorities.

Simplify your business setup in the UAE with Dubai Business Service