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Commercial License in Dubai
The licence for trading businesses, from retail and wholesale to import, export and logistics.
What a commercial licence allows
A commercial licence is required for businesses that buy and sell goods or provide commercial services such as logistics, brokerage and car rental. It is the most common licence type in Dubai.
The activities on the licence define what you can trade. We help you select activities that cover your current plans and leave room to grow.
At a glance
- Trading and commercial services
- Retail, wholesale, import and export
- LLC or branch structures
- 100% foreign ownership for most activities
- Customs registration for import and export
What we handle
- Activity selection
- Legal structure
- Trade name and initial approval
- MOA and notarisation
- Office, shop or warehouse
- External approvals
- Licence issuance
- Customs registration
- Visas
- Bank account and VAT registration
Why set up with Emna Capital
01
One point of contact
A single advisor manages your file from the first call to the day your licence, visas and bank account are ready.
02
The right jurisdiction
We compare mainland, free zone and offshore options against your activity, clients and budget before you commit.
03
Paperwork done properly
Applications, attestations and translations are prepared and checked by our team to avoid rejections and delays.
04
Support after setup
Accounting, VAT, corporate tax, renewals and PRO work continue with the same team once you are trading.
How it works
Step 1
Free consultation
We discuss your activity, clients, visas and budget and recommend the right route.
Step 2
Documents and approvals
We prepare the application, collect signatures and obtain the required approvals.
Step 3
Licence issued
Fees are paid and the licence and corporate documents issued.
Step 4
Visas and banking
We process visas and support your corporate bank account application.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Retail outlets need suitable premises and in some cases additional approvals.
No. A commercial licence covers specific related activities, while a general trading licence covers a broad range of goods.
Yes, through a licence amendment.
Once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 in a 12 month period, registration is mandatory.
Talk to an Emna Capital advisor
Tell us what you are planning and we will map out the route, the paperwork and the timeline. The first consultation is free.