Trade Licence Guide for the UAE
A UAE trade licence is issued by a licensing authority, either a free zone authority or a mainland department such as Dubai DET, and it is tied to approved business activities. Common categories include commercial, professional, service, industrial and e-commerce licences. Maven& selects the right licence and handles the application.
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What to know about Trade Licence Guide
Free zone licence
Issued by a free zone authority, with 100% foreign ownership for permitted activities.
Mainland licence
Issued by a department such as DET, allowing trade across the UAE.
Licence categories
Commercial, professional, service, industrial and e-commerce licences cover different activities.
Renewal
Licences are generally valid for one year and must be renewed before expiry.
- How it works
How to get started with Maven&
Free consultation
We review your goals, activity and budget.
Plan and quote
We recommend an option and give an itemised quote.
Prepare documents
We list and prepare the documents you need.
Apply
We submit the application and handle follow-ups.
Launch and support
We support visas, banking, accounting and compliance after launch.
What to prepare
Send us what you have and we will confirm what is missing.
- Passport copy of every shareholder and manager
- Passport-size photograph on a white background
- Three proposed trade names, in order of preference
- A short description of your business activity
- Corporate shareholders: incorporation documents and board resolution
Talk to a Maven& consultant today
- Why Maven&
Why choose Maven& for Trade Licence Guide
One dedicated consultant
One consultant coordinates your application from start to finish, so you never repeat yourself to a new team.
Transparent, itemised pricing
Every quote lists government fees and service fees line by line, with no hidden extras after you sign.
Checked against official sources
We work from official government guidance and confirm current requirements before we file.
Connected services
Company formation, visas, tax, accounting and banking are handled as one coordinated plan.
- Business setup FAQs
Trade Licence Guide: frequently asked questions
An official licence that allows a company to carry out specific business activities in the UAE.
A free zone authority or a mainland economic department, depending on where the company is registered.
Generally one year, then it must be renewed.
Often yes, subject to the licensing authority rules.
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