Let IBS Business Services Be Your Launchpad to Success in Dubai.
Start Your Commercial Business in Dubai – Contact IBS Today!
Commercial License in Dubai Mainland – IBS Business Services
Dubai is a thriving global trade hub, and obtaining a Commercial License is your gateway to this lucrative market. At IBS Business Services, we help foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and companies navigate the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) process with ease. Whether you are launching a general trading company or a specialized retail outlet, our experts ensure you get your business off the ground without delays or complications.
A Commercial License is issued by the DED and permits businesses to engage in trading activities. It is one of the most popular business licenses in the UAE, allowing for the buying, selling, importing, and exporting of goods across the UAE and beyond.
Unlike Freezone licenses, a mainland Commercial License gives you the freedom to trade across the UAE without any geographical restrictions.
A DED-issued Commercial License covers a wide variety of trading and commercial activities, including:
General Trading
Foodstuff Trading
Building Materials Trading
Perfumery
Electronics and Appliances Trading
Import & Export Services
Automobile and Spare Parts Trading
E-commerce and Software Trading
Domestic Gas Distribution
Retail & Wholesale Stores
IBS Business Services will guide you in selecting and registering the exact activities that match your business goals.
The most common legal form for a Commercial License is a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This structure offers flexibility, credibility, and limited liability for investors.
Since June 2021, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in many trading activities, eliminating the requirement for a UAE national sponsor in eligible sectors.
Trade freely across the UAE and internationally
Conduct multiple trading activities under one license (up to 10)
Apply for unlimited employee visas based on office size
Get access to tenders, government contracts, and local clients
Enjoy 100% foreign ownership in over 1000 business activities
No mandatory auditing for license renewal
General Trading
Supermarkets and Mini Marts
Electronic Cigarette Trading
Electric Cars Trading
Computer Software & Equipment Trading
Refined Oil Products Trading
Pharmaceutical Trading
Our consultants will provide you with the complete list of DED-approved 100% ownership activities.
Choose your trading activities
Select legal structure (e.g., LLC)
Reserve trade name with DED
Obtain initial DED approval
Draft and notarize the Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Secure office space and prepare tenancy contract
Submit final documents and make payment
Receive your Commercial Trade License
IBS Business Services will handle all steps, ensuring smooth documentation, approvals, and follow-ups.
Some activities require approvals from specific ministries (e.g., health, petroleum, food). Also, if you import regulated goods, you may need product certification from ESMA (Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology).
IBS can manage all required certifications, inspections, and approvals for:
Food & Cosmetics
PPE and Medical Devices
E-cigarettes
Tyres and Auto Parts
A: Our experienced consultants have deep knowledge of DED licensing rules and ensure your business setup is fully compliant from the start.
A: Absolutely. We provide customized solutions based on your business activity, ownership structure, and growth objectives.
A: Yes. We offer end-to-end support—from trade license application and visa processing to corporate bank account setup.
A: We manage all document clearance, visa submissions, Emirates ID processing, and trade license renewals on your behalf.
A: Yes. IBS offers value-added services such as VAT registration, bookkeeping, accounting, and office leasing to support your ongoing operations.
