Key Steps to receive a trade license:

1. Select your business activity.
2. Choose a trade name for your business.
3. Choose your business location.
4. Register your company.
5. Receive your license and open a business bank account.
6. Apply for your residence Visa.
7. Start your business.

Book a free expert consultation and we help you along the way!

It depends on the nature of your company and with the government that has approval and documentation. Obtaining a professional commercial License here in the UAE takes around 5-7 working days.

When comparing Mainland and Freezone, the most significant distinction is that the Freezone companies are not able to conduct or cannot operate outside the Freezone without the help of the Local Agent in UAE. A Mainland company is able to operate a business in a local market anywhere.

In UAE, there are a number of free zones to choose from. However, the reasons why expats or foreign investors select free zone projects are numerous, and include a number of advantages such as 100% ownership rights, the ability to do business internationally, access to world-class infrastructure, asset protection, and tax benefits.

Costs can vary based on your individual situation and requirements. In our Free Expert Consultation, we discuss your needs, develop a plan, and based on that highlight associated costs. You can then decide whether you want to go ahead or not.

• Business-friendly country.
• No restrictions on profit transfer or share capital.
• Residence Visa.
• Sponsorship for the family Visa.
• Currency, the Dirham, is stable and secure compared to any currency, especially the US dollar.
• Low, or non-existent, import duties.
• Very competitive labor costs.
• 100% foreign ownership is available for onshore companies in most sectors.

It will depend on the jurisdiction in which your company is located. But most probably is up to 10-50 employees. However, as long as your office is able to facilitate a lot of employees.

UAE has options of a 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year validity of the residence visa but there are exceptions and differences. Feel free to contact Lawbridge if you have any questions!

For the license validity, you can obtain 1 year up to 3 years.