Just like many places around the globe, entrepreneurs and companies must obtain a trade license to validate their mainland company as a legal entity in the United Arab Emirates. This trade license must be granted before commencing business activity. This applies in both free zone jurisdictions and Mainland Dubai. Having a trade license in Dubai ascertains your customers that you are a legitimate business that complies with local laws and regulations. Whilst there are many steps to get your business registered in the mainland, obtaining a trade license in Dubai is the most crucial to business setup.

When starting a new business in the UAE, you need to acquire the right trade license to ensure that your mainland company is set up properly for the long-term. The type of business activities, company structure and jurisdiction where you will operate can affect the type of trade license you need to acquire and the requirements applicable to you. Below are the three types of trade licenses that you need to consider as you begin the company formation process and start a mainland business in Dubai: