Last Updated: August 2025
Starting a Dubai business is an exciting goal. It requires getting the right trade license. Many entrepreneurs feel confused about this process. So, in this article, we will discuss every license type in Dubai. You will learn which license fits your business, and you will also learn how to get it.
What is a Trade License in Dubai?
A trade license is your legal permit to operate. The Department of Economic Development (DED) issues it. Without a license, your business can be shut down. Every business activity needs a specific license type.
Main Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai
Dubai offers six main types of licenses. Each one is for different business activities.
Commercial License
A commercial license is for trading businesses. It works for companies that buy and sell goods, and this license covers many trading activities.
- General trading
- Import and export
- Electronics trading
- Software trading
- Car rental services
- Real estate brokerage
You can have up to 10 activities per license. Foreign investors can own 100% of mainland firms. Likewise, this license gives full access to Dubai’s market.
Industrial License
An industrial license is for manufacturing businesses. You need this license to make or process products.
- Manufacturing goods
- Food production
- Textile making
- Assembly plants
- Processing raw materials
You must have a physical office or warehouse. Your business must be in a designated industrial zone.
Professional License
Professional licenses are for service-based businesses. It is for skilled professionals and consultants.
- Consulting services
- Legal services
- Medical services
- Beauty salons
- Graphic design
- Repair services
- Document clearing
Foreign investors can get 100% ownership, which is a major benefit for professional firms.
Tourism License
Tourism licenses are for travel and hospitality. You need this for any tourism-related business.
- Hotels and guest houses
- Travel agencies
- Tourist camps
- Cruise boat rentals
- Restaurants
Agricultural License
Agricultural licenses cover farming and related work. This includes cultivation and agricultural trade.
- Crop cultivation
- Pesticide trading
- Greenhouse installations
- Agricultural consulting
Crafts License
Crafts licenses are for skilled manual trades. These licenses are for craftsmen and artisans.
- Plumbing work
- Carpentry
- Electrical work
- Other skilled crafts
Special License Types
- General Trading License: This license offers great flexibility. You can trade many different types of products. It works well for diverse business models.
- E-Commerce License: An e-commerce license is for online businesses. You need it to sell products through digital platforms.
- Websites
- Mobile apps
- Social media platforms
License Application Types
Dubai offers three ways to apply for licenses.
- Normal License: Takes longer to process. Requires a Memorandum of Association and a site lease.
- Instant License: Gets approved in about five minutes. It needs no external approvals for the first year. A virtual office is allowed initially.
- e-Trader License: This is perfect for home-based online businesses. It has a simple online application process.
Where Can You Set Up Your Business?
Your business location affects your license choice. There are three main options in Dubai.
