Commercial License

Mainland commercial license allowing trading activities across the UAE without restrictions.

Overview

A Commercial License is the most common type of mainland trade license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the UAE, allowing you to conduct trading activities throughout the country without geographical restrictions. This license covers a broad spectrum of commercial activities including import/export, wholesale and retail trading, distribution, general trading, and specific commodity trading. It is the essential license for any business that buys and sells physical goods, whether domestically within the UAE or internationally across global markets. Holding a mainland Commercial License provides significant advantages over free zone trading licenses. You can trade directly with the UAE local market, participate in government tenders and contracts, set up retail outlets anywhere in the country, and establish your business in any emirate. The license is registered with the DED and requires a physical office address within the emirate of registration. Since the introduction of the UAE Commercial Companies Law amendments, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most commercial activities, eliminating the previous requirement for a local Emirati partner or sponsor for many business categories. The commercial license application process involves selecting your trade name, obtaining initial approval from the DED, securing a tenancy contract for your office or shop premises, and submitting the required documentation. Additional approvals may be needed from relevant government authorities depending on the specific commercial activity — for example, food trading requires approval from the municipality and food safety authority. Al Aegis guides you through every step of the process, from activity selection and trade name registration to DET (Dubai Economy and Tourism) registration, visa applications, and ongoing compliance with UAE commercial regulations.

Key Features

Trading Activities

Import/Export

Wholesale & Retail

No Trade Restrictions

Government Contracts Eligible

UAE-wide Operations

Why Choose Al Aegis?

Unrestricted UAE Market Access

A mainland Commercial License allows you to trade directly with consumers, businesses, and government entities anywhere in the UAE without geographical limitations or the need for intermediaries.

Government Contract Eligibility

Only mainland licensed companies can participate in government tenders and secure public sector contracts, opening access to a significant revenue stream that free zone companies cannot directly access.

100% Foreign Ownership

Recent UAE law reforms allow 100% foreign ownership for most commercial activities on the mainland, enabling international entrepreneurs to retain full control of their trading businesses.

Flexible Trading Activities

A single commercial license can cover multiple trading activities including import, export, wholesale, retail, distribution, and general trading, reducing the need for multiple licenses.

Retail Presence Anywhere

Set up shops, showrooms, and retail outlets in any location across the UAE, including malls, commercial districts, and residential areas, giving your business maximum customer reach.

International Trade Operations

Conduct cross-border trade with customs clearance, register with Dubai Customs, and leverage UAE's extensive network of trade agreements and strategic port and airport infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need a local partner for a mainland Commercial License?

For most commercial activities, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted following the UAE Commercial Companies Law amendments. However, certain strategic activities may still require a local Emirati service agent or partner. Al Aegis will advise you on the ownership structure based on your specific business activity.

What is the difference between a commercial license and a general trading license?

A standard commercial license covers specific trading activities listed on the license. A general trading license is a broader category that allows you to trade in almost any type of goods (excluding certain regulated items) under a single license, providing maximum flexibility for diversified trading operations.

Can I operate an e-commerce business with a mainland Commercial License?

Yes, a mainland Commercial License can include e-commerce activities, allowing you to sell products online to customers across the UAE and internationally. Additional e-commerce-specific registrations and approvals may be required depending on the nature of products sold.

What are the requirements for obtaining a mainland Commercial License?

Key requirements include choosing a legally compliant trade name, obtaining DED initial approval, securing a physical office or shop lease agreement in the relevant emirate, submitting passport copies and photos, and obtaining any activity-specific approvals from relevant authorities.

How long does it take to obtain a mainland Commercial License?

The timeline typically ranges from 5 to 10 business days once all documents are submitted and approvals obtained. The process may take longer if additional government approvals are required for specific trading activities or if the trade name registration process requires modifications.

Ready to set up your mainland company?

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