Setting up your own business is a very exciting time — and it can be a stressful one, too. Don’t worry, though — our expert team is here to guide you, every step of the way.
One of the first important decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right license for your business. So, in this guide, we break down all the options available and the businesses they’re suited to.
Commercial License
Here’s a rundown of some of the key business types that require a commercial trade license:
- Trading in publications and media materials
- Trading in oil and gas
- Trading in gold and precious metals
- Trading in spare parts and vehicles
- …and plenty more, mostly relating to the trade of goods generally
Acquiring a commercial license in Dubai doesn’t need to be a challenge — but it certainly can be, if you aren’t aware of all the steps and procedures involved. It can turn out to be more expensive than you might expect, too. While many businesses factor this amount into their set-up budget, there are other costs to cover beyond the initial license. While the license itself costs AED 10,000, additional fees (such as registrations, visas and more) can take your total up to AED 30,000 or more. So make sure you plan ahead to avoid unexpected bills later.
Professional License
In order to obtain a professional license, you’ll need academic achievements and/or professional skills. Those working as everything from craftsmen to IT services providers — or any other skills-based role — can apply for this license.
Here are a few more professional areas that would be eligible; for a full list, please get in touch with our expert team.
- Tax consultancy
- Marketing consultancy
- Insurance consultancy
- IT infrastructure consultancy
- Management consultancy
Industrial License
This license is reserved for those who manufacture materials and products — or for businesses and individuals that are involved in these industries in some way. In order to be eligible, you’ll also need to have an office based in the UAE.
If you’re looking for examples of businesses that would be a good match for this license, we’ve listed a few below:
- Garment manufacturing
- Furniture manufacturing
- Meat and dairy manufacturing
- Animal and bird-feed manufacturing
- …and plenty more
Freelance Permit
Freelance license is a very popular choice in Dubai; these permits allow individual professionals to offer their freelance skills to the UAE market. You’ll find lots of creative and media professionals in this category; we’ve written a few examples below to give an idea of those who are eligible:
- Copywriters
- Actors
- Content creators
- Camera operators
- Audio and sound engineers
- Media specialists
Tourism License
If your business offers any services related to travel and tourism, this is the license for you. This is another popular option in Dubai, thanks to the city being a huge hub for those visiting from abroad. The tourism license is perfect for those who rent hotels, run cruise-boat rentals, manage restaurants or guest houses — as well as those who operate travel agencies.
Agricultural License
Agricultural licenses are reserved for people who work with crops; cultivating and harvesting vegetables and grains. This is also the right license for businesses who make their living through trading pesticides and fertilizers, as well as for those who trade in crops and plants. Irrigation systems come under this umbrella too, as well as anything involving greenhouses or consultancy around farming.
Craftsmanship License
Finally, the craftsmanship license: this option is the best choice for people or businesses that specialise in services requiring hands-on, physical tasks and skills. So, those who work as plumbers, carpenters, blacksmiths and electricians would be among those to apply for this license. It’s also a useful choice for those who work as artisans in any industry.
Why work with Worldwide formations
Successfully finding your way through the UAE’s laws can be tricky — but that’s where we can help. At Worldwide Formations, we’re highly experienced in supporting businesses through the process of getting set up in Dubai; working alongside you to ensure you’re ready to trade as soon as possible. For more on how we can help you and your business, get in touch today.
