Whether you're starting a new business or managing an existing one, Dream Global provides end-to-end trade license services in Dubai. From obtaining a new DED or Free Zone license to renewing, modifying, freezing, or cancelling an existing one — our expert consultants handle every step, so you can focus on running your business. Over 300 companies have trusted us with their UAE licensing needs.
A valid trade license is the legal foundation of every business in the UAE. Whether you hold a Mainland (DED), Free Zone, or Offshore license, keeping it current and correctly structured is essential for visa processing, banking, government contracts, and daily operations. Dream Global manages the full lifecycle of your UAE trade license — from initial application to annual renewal, activity modifications, and formal cancellation.
We handle the complete application process for new Mainland (DED), Free Zone, and Offshore trade licenses in Dubai. We advise on the right license type, business activities, and jurisdiction based on your specific business model.
Avoid fines and business disruption. We renew your UAE trade license before the expiry date, managing all documentation, fee payments, and authority submissions on your behalf.
Need to add business activities, change your company name, update share structure, or change your business address? We handle all DED and Free Zone modification requests efficiently.
Planning to close or temporarily pause your business? We manage the formal license cancellation and freezing process, ensuring you're fully compliant with UAE regulations and avoid ongoing liabilities.
Everything you need to set up and manage your UAE trade license.
Starting a business in UAE? We can help you set up in a Freezone, on Mainland or Offshore.
Understanding which license type fits your business is the first step. Dream Global helps you choose correctly from the start.
Issued to businesses involved in buying and selling goods — including general trading, import/export, and retail operations. The most common license type for trading companies in Dubai.
Required for service-based businesses including consultancies, IT firms, marketing agencies, legal services, accounting firms, and freelancers. Allows 100% foreign ownership in most categories.
For businesses involved in manufacturing, production, or industrial activities. Requires a physical factory or production space and is typically issued by DED or relevant industrial authorities.
Required for travel agencies, tour operators, hotel apartments, and related hospitality businesses operating in Dubai.
| Feature | Mainland (DED) License | Free Zone License |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign Ownership | Up to 100% (most activities) | 100% always |
| Trade with UAE Market | ✅ Unrestricted | Via local distributor |
| Government Contracts | ✅ Eligible | ❌ Not eligible |
| Office Requirement | Physical office required | Flexi-desk available |
| Starting Cost | From AED 29,999 | From AED 12,900 |
| Setup Time | 5–10 business days | 3–7 business days |
UAE trade licenses must be renewed annually before the expiry date. Failure to renew on time results in:
Dream Global sends renewal reminders and begins the process 60 days before your expiry date to ensure zero gaps in your license validity.
We assess your business type, activities, and goals to recommend the right license category and jurisdiction.
Our team collects and reviews all required documents — passports, visa copies, Ejari, MoA drafts, and any authority-specific requirements.
We submit to the relevant authority (DED, DMCC, IFZA, RAKEZ, or other Free Zones) and track your application status in real-time.
Once approved, we deliver your trade license and guide you through the next steps — visa applications, bank account opening, and more.
A trade license is a legal document issued by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or a Free Zone authority that permits your business to operate legally within the UAE. Without a valid trade license, your business cannot legally sign contracts, hire employees, open a bank account, or sponsor visas. Every business operating in the UAE — regardless of size or type — requires a valid license.
Trade license costs in Dubai vary by jurisdiction and business type. A Free Zone trade license starts from AED 12,900 with Dream Global. A Mainland (DED) trade license starts from AED 29,999. Costs include the license fee, registration charges, and any required approvals. Additional costs such as office rent (Ejari), visa fees, and activity-specific permits may apply. Contact us for a precise quote based on your specific business activities.
With Dream Global, a Free Zone trade license can be issued in as little as 3–5 business days. A Mainland (DED) license typically takes 5–10 business days, depending on the business activity and any required external approvals. Having all documents ready — including passport copies, Ejari, and the Memorandum of Association — ensures the fastest processing time.
UAE trade licenses must be renewed every year before the expiry date. Dream Global recommends starting the renewal process at least 30 days before expiry. Late renewal attracts fines starting at AED 250 per month and can result in visa and banking restrictions. Our team handles the entire renewal process — document collection, fee payment, and authority submission — so your license remains valid without interruption.
Yes. You can modify your trade license to add, remove, or change business activities at any time. This is called a License Modification. You can also modify your company name, legal structure, or shareholder details through the same process. Dream Global handles all DED and Free Zone modification requests, typically completing them within 5–7 business days.
License freezing allows you to temporarily suspend your trade license without formally cancelling it. This is useful if you're pausing operations due to travel, restructuring, or market conditions, and plan to resume business later. A frozen license avoids ongoing renewal fees while preserving your company registration. Dream Global manages the formal freezing process with DED or your Free Zone authority and advises on the conditions and duration permitted under your specific jurisdiction.
