Services · Business setup

Business Licenses

Setting up a business in the UAE is an exciting opportunity thanks to its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and efficient digital government systems.

Talk to a setup advisor →Call +971 52 754 3243
License types3
Business activities2,000+
Instant license5–10 min
Key steps8
2,000+listed business activities to choose from across commercial, industrial and professional sectors.Getting the license right is mandatory
Setting up in the UAE

Start right. Start legally.

Setting up a business in the UAE is an exciting opportunity thanks to its strategic location, business-friendly environment, and efficient digital government systems. Whether you’re opening a physical store, launching an online brand, or setting up a consultancy, obtaining the correct business license is mandatory to operate legally.

Below is a comprehensive overview of the types of licenses, legal structures, and key steps to help you get started.

Types of business licenses in the UAE

Pick the license that fits.

~1–3 business days

Normal License

Suitable for traditional businesses with a physical location.

  • Requires a lease agreement and a memorandum of association (MoA)
  • Application processed through service centres or online via the DED portal
5–10 minutes

Instant License

Issued within minutes for businesses that do not need external approvals.

  • No lease contract required for the first year (virtual office is allowed)
  • Available for: LLC, LLC-SO, Sole Establishment, and Civil Company
Includes
  • Dubai Chamber membership
  • Establishment card from GDRFA
  • MOHRE card (to hire up to 3 employees)
~3–5 business days

eTrader License

Designed for home-based online businesses in Dubai.

  • Issued as a sole establishment license
  • Apply via the Invest in Dubai portal
Required documents

What you’ll need to apply.

Normal license

For traditional businesses with a physical location. Gather these before you apply.

Your document checklist0 of 6 ready
Legal forms to consider

Match the structure to your activity.

Your business structure must match your activity type. Each form comes with different legal obligations, ownership rights, and setup procedures.

  • Sole Proprietorship
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Civil Company
  • Private or Public Joint Stock Company
  • Branch of a foreign company
Key steps to get your license

Eight steps to open for business.

  1. 01
    Identify your business activity

    Choose from over 2,000 listed activities across various sectors (commercial, industrial, professional, etc.)

  2. 02
    Choose a legal structure

    Based on the number of owners and the nature of the business

  3. 03
    Reserve and register a trade name

    Must be unique, relevant, and approved by the DED

  4. 04
    Get initial approval

    Indicates the government’s no objection to starting your business (not a permit to operate)

  5. 05
    Prepare MoA (if required)

    Required for LLCs, partnerships, and joint stock companies

  6. 06
    Secure office space

    The lease agreement is registered and compliant with the municipality’s zoning rules

  7. 07
    Get external approvals (if needed)

    For regulated sectors (healthcare, legal, education, etc.)

  8. 08
    Submit final documents and pay fees

    Finalise your application and receive your commercial license

Business license fees in the UAE

What affects the cost.

Fees vary depending on:

  • Type of license
  • Business activity
  • Emirate of registration
  • Required government approvals

For updated fee details, visit the official DED or the relevant emirate’s economic department portal.

How long does it take?

From minutes to weeks.

  • Instant License~5–10 minutes
  • Normal License~1–3 business days
  • eTrader License~3–5 business days
  • Full company setup (with external approvals)Up to several weeks
Where to apply

Online or in person.

You can apply via:

  • Official DED portals for other emirates
  • Authorised service centres across the UAE

Or let DRE’s consultants guide you through it.

Talk to us

Our consultants are ready to assist you.

+971 52 754 3243Call DRE sales@drehomes.comEmail us
More from DRE

Other services

Property and Investment Consultancy→ Mortgage Advisory→ Relocation Service→ Bank Account Opening→ Book Your Valuation→
Set up your business

Let’s get you
licensed.

Call +971 52 754 3243 or email sales@drehomes.com — or leave your details and a business setup consultant will call you back.