Business Licensing Services
Commercial License
A business engaging in the purchase and sales of goods in the UAE or outside the UAE are granted commercial licenses. Commercial licenses authorise the import, export, storing and distribution of items specified on the license.
General Trading License
General Trading License comes under the broader category of commercial license. This enables the licensee to trade in a wider range of activities and gives the freedom and flexibility to trade in any commodity which is permitted within the UAE.
Service License
The UAE offers great opportunities for service providers and the services sector is one of the key drivers in the economic growth of the UAE. In UAQ Free Trade Zone, Service Licenses help service companies to incorporate companies, market and distribute their services.
Freelance Permit
A freelance license or work permit allows an individual to operate as a freelance professional, and conduct business in one’s birth name as opposed to a brand name or company. It is designed for individuals who operate in technology, media and film sectors, and is issued to talent roles, creative roles and selected administrative roles.
Industrial License
A company incorporated in the UAE will need a business license if it is involved in the process of manufacturing and production, where natural material is transformed to finished goods. A physical office or warehouse is mandatory for Industrial Licenses and the UAQ Free Trade Zone offers leasable land units with the lowest operating costs in this region for industries.
How to choose your business licence
Start with the activity your business will carry out. Use the licence summaries above to compare trading, general trading, service, freelance and industrial options. Your selected activities and operating needs help determine the appropriate licence route.
When you are ready, review the business setup steps. If you are unsure which option fits your planned activities, contact UAQ Free Trade Zone for guidance before you apply.
Verify License
- Search using the License Number
- The license Number must be exactly as per the issued license
Talk it through with an adviser
Share what you have planned so far. An adviser will confirm what applies to your business, what it costs and what happens next — no obligation.