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License Type

Commercial License (Dubai & UAE)

A Commercial License covers trading, retail, e-commerce and import/export. Choose Mainland for on-shore distribution and tenders; Free Zones are ideal for cross-border trading and online operations. Warehouse or showroom space may be required depending on scope.

Trading & E-commerce Mainland or Free Zone Import/Export ready Warehouse optional
Direct Answer Yes — available on Mainland and in Free Zones.
Estimated Cost: AED 5,500–10,500 Timeline: ≈ 5–10 working days (stock/permits can add time) See Steps See Documents
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Steps to get a Commercial License

  1. Pick Mainland or a Free Zone; confirm exact trading activity
  2. Reserve trade name and obtain initial approval
  3. Arrange office/warehouse (if required) and submit KYC
  4. Issue commercial license and establishment card
  5. Open bank account; set up payment gateway/e-commerce

Documents required

  • Passport & photo for each owner
  • UAE entry/visa page (if available)
  • Trade-name options
  • Warehouse/showroom lease (if applicable)

What this license covers

  • Wholesale/retail trading, import/export, e-commerce and marketplaces
  • Distribution, warehousing and logistics add-ons (where available)
  • Retail/showroom optional; many zones allow flexi-desk + online trading

Key notes

  • Sensitive goods (food, pharma, cosmetics, vaping, etc.) may need product registrations or authority approvals.
  • For on-shore retail, use Mainland or zones with approved on-shore retail permits.
  • Bank account & payment gateway require clear activity and KYC.

Commercial License — FAQs

How much does a Commercial License in Dubai cost?

Typical government/authority fees range around AED 5,500–10,500 depending on the jurisdiction and add-ons.

Can a Commercial License in Dubai do e-commerce?

Yes. Many Free Zones and the Mainland allow e-commerce with the correct activity; payment gateways may ask for website/KYC.

Do I need a warehouse for a Commercial License in UAE?

Not always. You can start with a flexi-desk and 3PL; physical stock handling usually requires a warehouse lease.

Can I sell on-shore with a Free Zone Commercial License?

B2B via distributors is common. For direct on-shore retail, confirm permissions or choose Mainland.

Is a Commercial License in Dubai good for dropshipping?

Yes—ensure your activity wording covers online trading and logistics model.