Process, costs, requirements & tips for new investors
A Trade License in Abu Dhabi is an official permit issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED / DED) that allows individuals or companies to legally conduct commercial, professional, industrial, or service activities in the emirate.
Whether you’re starting an online business, a shop, a consultancy firm, or a trading company, you must obtain this license before operating.
Types of Trade Licenses in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi issues several types of licenses depending on your activity:
1. Commercial License
For trading, general trading, retail, e-commerce, and services.
2. Professional License
For consultancy, freelancers, IT services, and specialists.
3. Industrial License
For manufacturing, production, assembly, and heavy industry.
4. Tourism License
For travel agencies, restaurants, tour operators, and hotels.
5. Agricultural License
For farming, fisheries, and related activities.
⭐ How to Get a Trade License in Abu Dhabi (Step-by-Step Process)
Below is the complete process from start to finish:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
The first step is selecting the exact business activity you want to perform.
Abu Dhabi DED offers 2,000+ activities, including:
- General trading
- E-commerce
- Restaurant/café
- Consultancy services
- Cleaning services
- Real estate brokerage
- Construction
- Technical services
⚠️ The activity determines the approvals you will need later.
Step 2: Decide Your Business Structure
Common legal structures in Abu Dhabi include:
|
Structure |
Best For |
|
LLC (Limited Liability Company) |
Trading, commercial activities |
|
Sole Establishment |
Professionals & freelancers |
|
Civil Company |
|
|
Branch of Foreign Company |
Multinational expansions |
|
Free Zone Company |
Online & international businesses |
Step 3: Select a Trade Name
Choose 3–5 name options that follow DED rules:
- No offensive words
- No religious references
- No country names
- If using a personal name → must be full name
You will reserve the name through DED’s platform.
Step 4: Get Initial Approval from DED
Initial approval confirms:
- The business is permitted
- The shareholders and manager are approved
- You can proceed with licensing steps
This is usually processed within 24 hours.
Step 5: Prepare Required Documents
You will need:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Passport-size photos
- Entry stamp or visa copy
- Emirates ID (for residents)
- NOC (if sponsored)
- Articles of Association (AOA)
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Shareholder agreement
- Trade name certificate
(For some activities, additional approvals apply—media, tourism, food, real estate, engineering.)
Step 6: Lease an Office or Workspace
To obtain your trade license, you must provide a valid office lease:
- Mainland: Tawtheeq / Ejari
- Free Zone: Flexi-desk, shared office, or private office
The size of the office affects your visa quota.
Step 7: Submit Documents & Pay Fees
Submit your documents to:
- DED (for mainland)
- Free Zone Authority (if choosing free zone)
Pay the license issuance fees, which vary depending on your activity and workspace size.
Step 8: Receive Your Trade License
Once approved, your official Abu Dhabi Trade License will be issued.
You can now:
- Apply for investor visas
- Hire employees
- Open a corporate bank account
- Start legal business operations
Cost of a Trade License in Abu Dhabi (2025)
The cost varies depending on:
- Business activity
- Number of shareholders
- Office size
- Government approvals
Average cost for a mainland trade license:
AED 12,000 – AED 25,000
Average cost for a free zone license:
AED 8,000 – AED 20,000
Additional costs:
- Office rent
- Visa processing
- Establishment card
- Immigration fees
Processing Time
With correct documentation, the trade license can be issued in:
⏱ 1–3 working days
Some free zones issue licenses within 24 hours.
Documents Required to Get a Trade License in Abu Dhabi
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Visa & entry stamp copy
- Emirates ID (for UAE residents)
- Passport photos
- NOC if on employment visa
- Trade name reservation
- Initial approval certificate
- MOA & AOA
- Office lease agreement
Who Needs a Trade License?
You need a trade license if you want to:
- Operate a business physically or online
- Sell products or services
- Hire employees
- Operate a shop, office, or warehouse
- Import/export goods
Every legal business in Abu Dhabi must hold a valid license.
Renewing Your Trade License
Trade licenses must be renewed every 1 year.
Requirements:
- Updated office lease
- Visa & establishment card renewal
- Updated corporate documents
Penalties apply for late renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can foreigners get a trade license in Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Foreign investors can hold 100% ownership in most activities.
2. How long does it take to get the license?
Usually 1–3 days, depending on approvals.
3. Do I need a physical office?
Yes for mainland; free zones may allow flexi-desks.
4. Can one license have multiple business activities?
Yes, but they must fall under the same category (commercial, professional, etc.).
5. Can I use my home as an office?
No, except under rare special approvals.
Note: This content is for informational purposes only.
Note: This content is for informational purposes only.
