Trade Licence in UAE: Requirements, Costs, Verification & Renewal

A Trade Licence in UAE is essential for legally conducting business, whether on the mainland or in a free zone. From entrepreneurs to established companies, obtaining a Trade Licence in UAE unlocks compliance, credibility, and commercial opportunity within Abu Dhabi, Dubai and across the Emirates.

This article explains in clear, professional detail how to get a UAE trade license, trade licence UAE requirements, UAE trade licence verification, renewal in Dubai, cost implications, and tips to protectTrade Secret in UAE — helping your venture thrive legally and competitively.

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How to get UAE trade license?

This section lays out the formal steps to obtain your initial trade licence in UAE.

To get a UAE trade license, start by choosing the right jurisdiction (mainland, free zone or offshore), then select the suitable licence type: commercial, professional, industrial, or tourism. Submit company name, activity and owner details, tenancy contract, passports, MOA (if applicable), and other required documents to the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant free zone authority. After approvals, pay the licence fee and receive the official licence.

trade licence uae requirements

To obtain a trade licence UAE, the following requirements must be met:

1. Tenancy Contract (Ejari Registered): A physical office space is required, and the lease must be registered under Ejari.
2. Passport & Visa Copies: All business owners, partners, and managers must submit clear copies.
3. Business Name Reservation Certificate: Approved by the relevant authority (DED or free zone).
4. Completed Application Form: Such as BR-1 for Dubai mainland or the respective free zone equivalent.
5. Memorandum of Association (MOA): Required for LLCs and multi-partner businesses.
6. Initial Approval Certificate: From the relevant economic authority.
7. Special Approvals (if needed): For activities that require regulation (healthcare, education, engineering, etc.).
8. Emirates ID Copy: For UAE residents involved in the business.

UAE trade licence verification

To verify a trade licence in the UAE, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Department of Economic Development (DED) website for your emirate (e.g., Dubai, Abu Dhabi).
2. Choose the Verification Option: Select “License Search” or “Business Inquiry” from the services menu.
3. Enter Business Details: Input the trade licence number, company name, or owner’s name as required.
4. Review Licence Information: The system will display details such as business name, activity, licence status, expiry date, and issuing authority.
5. For Free Zones: Use the respective free zone authority’s website (e.g., DMCC, JAFZA, RAKEZ) to check licences issued under their jurisdiction.
6. Check Authenticity: Ensure the information matches official records to avoid dealing with fraudulent entities.

This process helps confirm that a business is properly registered and operating legally in the UAE.

Trade License in Dubai & Renewal

Renewal is mandatory and must be timely to avoid penalties.

After operating with a valid trade license in Dubai, you must renew annually through the Dubai Economic Department or relevant free zone authority. Costs can vary—from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000 depending on activity and zone.

How to renew trade license in dubai?

Renewal in Dubai involves submitting required documents—Ejari tenancy, passport/Emirates ID, previous licence, renewal form BR‑1—via online DED portal or authorized service centers. Pay the renewal fee, and receive an updated licence within days if all is in order. Mainland offers a 30‑day grace period; delays may trigger fines and blacklisting.

How to protect Trade Secret in UAE?

To safeguard trade secrets under UAE law, businesses should follow these legal and practical steps:

1. Use Confidentiality Agreements (NDAs): Ensure all employees, contractors, and partners sign legally binding NDAs.
2. Restrict Information Access: Only authorized individuals should access sensitive data through tiered security protocols.
3. Implement Internal Policies: Create documented policies on trade secret management and employee conduct.
4. Label Confidential Materials: Clearly mark all documents and communications as “Confidential” or “Proprietary.”
5. Train Employees: Regularly educate staff on handling confidential information and consequences of disclosure.
6. Use Non-Compete and Non-Disclosure Clauses: Especially for key personnel or partners.
7. Leverage Legal Remedies: In case of breach, enforce your rights under the UAE Civil Code, Commercial Companies Law, and Penal Code.
8. Consider DIFC or ADGM Protections: These jurisdictions offer enhanced IP and trade secret laws under common law systems.

These steps ensure strong legal standing and help mitigate the risk of business-sensitive information leaks.

FAQ

In summary, a Trade Licence in UAE is a critical legal foundation—and obtaining it involves defined steps related to licensing authority, activities, documentation, payment, and approvals. Verifying the licence online adds a layer of trust and protects against fraud. Whether you hold a trade licence in Dubai or across other emirates, timely renewal keeps your business compliant. Repeat: securing a Trade Licence in UAE equips you for lawful growth, while protecting trade secrets ensures long‑term competitive advantage.

Don’t risk delays or fines on your UAE trade licence.

Let our lawyers in Dubai handle the paperwork and approvals for you—start your consultation  by contacting us via WhatsApp now.

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