Trusted UAE Business Setup & Management Consultancy
Mainland Company Formation
Mainland Company Formation

Get Your UAE Trade License – Fast & Affordable

Expert trade license processing for all business activities across UAE mainland and free zones.

  • 100% Foreign Ownership
  • Setup in 24–72 Hours
  • Investor Visa Eligibility
  • Corporate Bank Account
  • No Hidden Costs
  • Dedicated Account Manager
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15+Years of Experience
10,000+Companies Formed
50+Countries Served
99%Client Satisfaction
Overview

About Business Setup in UAE Trade License

Quick Answer

UAE Trade License company formation involves choosing your business activity, securing the required approvals, and obtaining your trade licence from the relevant economic department. AR Star Management Consultancy handles the entire process end-to-end — typically within 24–72 hours — with 100% ownership, investor visa, and corporate bank account support.

A trade license is the fundamental document required to legally operate a business in the UAE. It authorizes you to conduct specific business activities within your chosen jurisdiction and is issued by the relevant mainland authority or free zone.

The type of trade license you need depends on your business activity. Commercial licenses cover trading activities, professional licenses cover service-based businesses, and industrial licenses cover manufacturing operations. Some businesses may require multiple licenses.

AR Star provides end-to-end trade license services including activity selection, application processing, and license issuance. Our expertise ensures you get the right license for your business with the fastest turnaround and most competitive pricing.

Start Your Business in UAE Trade License Today

Get a free, no-obligation consultation and a transparent quote from our UAE setup experts.

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Advantages

Key Advantages of UAE Trade License

Fast license processing
Expert activity selection guidance
Multiple license types available
Competitive pricing
License renewal support
Activity amendment services
Multi-activity licenses
Digital license issuance
Full compliance assurance
Post-license business support
Comparison

UAE Trade License vs Other Jurisdictions

See how it compares so you can choose with confidence.

FeatureUAECommercial LicenseProfessional LicenseIndustrial License
Best ForAll typesTradingServicesManufacturing
Processing Time24-72 hrs24-48 hrs24-48 hrs5-7 days
Cost LevelVariesModerateLowHigh
ActivitiesMultipleTrading onlyServices onlyManufacturing
Office RequiredDependsYesVirtual OKIndustrial space
Visa EligibilityYesYesYesYes
Activities

Business Activities Allowed in UAE Trade License

General Trading
Management Consulting
IT Services & Software Development
E-commerce & Online Retail
Marketing & Media
Import & Export
Education & Training
Real Estate Brokerage
Food & Beverage Trading
Event Management
Licences

Trade Licence Types Available

Commercial License

For trading and general commercial activities

Professional License

For service-based businesses and consultancies

Industrial License

For manufacturing and industrial operations

Documents

Documents Required

Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
Passport-sized photograph (white background)
Visa copy (if applicable)
Business activity details and description
Proof of address (home country)
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if UAE resident)
Process

UAE Trade License Company Setup Process

Our streamlined process gets your business running quickly.

01

Free Consultation

We assess your needs and recommend the best jurisdiction and structure.

02

Activity & Name

Select your business activities and reserve your trade name.

03

Document Submission

We prepare and submit all paperwork to the relevant authority.

04

Licence Issuance

Receive your official trade licence and start operating legally.

05

Visa & Banking

Complete visa processing and corporate bank account opening.

Launch Your Company in 24–72 Hours

Fast, fully compliant setup with 100% ownership, visa, and corporate bank account support.

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Who It's For

Who Should Choose UAE Trade License?

Global entrepreneurs seeking 100% ownership
Startups looking for cost-effective setup
SMEs expanding into the Middle East market
Consultants and freelancers going independent
Investors seeking UAE residency and Golden Visa
Corporates establishing regional headquarters
Why AR Star

Why Thousands Choose AR Star for UAE Business Setup

A licensed consultancy delivering speed, transparency, and complete end-to-end support.

One-Stop Business Solution

From company formation to full operations, accounting, and growth — everything managed under one roof.

Fast Setup in 24–72 Hours

Industry-leading turnaround. Get your trade licence issued and your business running in record time.

Transparent, Fixed Pricing

No hidden fees, no surprises. You know exactly what you pay before you commit — guaranteed.

Trusted by 50+ Countries

Thousands of entrepreneurs and investors worldwide trust AR Star with their UAE expansion.

Dedicated Account Manager

A single expert point of contact guides you through every step — and stays with you after launch.

Licensed & Compliant

A fully licensed UAE consultancy with government-approved advisors and end-to-end compliance.

Get a Quote

Get Your UAE Trade License Setup Quote

Speak with a UAE business setup specialist today. Get a tailored, no-obligation quote and a clear roadmap for your company — costs, timelines, and the best jurisdiction for your activity.

  • Transparent fixed pricing — no hidden government or service fees.
  • End-to-end handling — licence, visa, Emirates ID, and bank account.
  • Dedicated account manager — one expert from enquiry to launch.

Get a Free Quote

Our experts reply within 30 minutes during business hours.

Thank you!

Your request has reached our consultants. We will contact you shortly — usually within 30 minutes during business hours.

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FAQs

UAE Trade License Business Setup — FAQs

What is a UAE trade license?
A UAE trade license is an official document that authorizes a business to operate specific commercial activities within the UAE.
How to get a trade license in UAE?
Select your business activity, choose a jurisdiction, submit required documents, and receive your license after government approval.
What types of trade licenses exist?
There are three main types: commercial (trading), professional (services), and industrial (manufacturing).
Can foreigners get a trade license?
Yes, foreigners can obtain trade licenses with 100% ownership in both mainland and free zone jurisdictions.
How long does it take to get a trade license?
License processing typically takes 24 hours in free zones and 2-5 days for mainland.
What is the cost of a UAE trade license?
Costs vary by license type and jurisdiction, starting from AED 5,750 for free zone trade licenses.
Can I have multiple activities on one license?
Yes, many jurisdictions allow multiple activities on a single license, sometimes for additional fees.
How do I renew my trade license?
Trade licenses are renewed annually. We handle the entire renewal process including compliance checks.
What happens if I don't renew my license?
Operating without a valid license is illegal and can result in fines. Late renewal penalties may also apply.
Can I change activities on my license?
Yes, you can amend your business activities. We assist with the amendment process and any required approvals.
Do I need a trade license for e-commerce?
Yes, e-commerce businesses require a valid trade license. Several free zones offer specialized e-commerce packages.
What is the difference between freelance and trade license?
A freelance permit is for individual professionals, while a trade license allows broader commercial activities and hiring employees.
Can I trade internationally with a UAE license?
Yes, UAE trade licenses allow international trade. Free zone licenses are particularly suited for global business.
Is a trade license required for consulting?
Yes, consulting businesses need a professional trade license to operate legally in the UAE.
Can I operate from home with a trade license?
Some jurisdictions allow home-based businesses with virtual office arrangements and a valid trade license.

Ready to Set Up in UAE Trade License?

Join thousands of businesses that trust AR Star Management Consultancy. Get started with a free consultation today.

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