Raes Steps to Obtain a Trade License in UAE
We provide a structured, smooth process for obtaining mainland, free zone, and offshore licenses. Here’s how we guide you:
- Consultation and Business Activity Analysis
We begin by understanding your business goals and specific activities. Based on this, we recommend the right license type—whether it’s a mainland, free zone, or offshore license.
2. License Type Selection
After analyzing your business activity, we help you choose from:
- Mainland License: Allows you to operate within the local UAE market and internationally. Ideal for retail, consulting, and service-based businesses.
- Free Zone License: Provides benefits like 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions. Suitable for IT, media, logistics, and more.
- Offshore License: Designed for international businesses that don’t intend to operate within the UAE market. Perfect for holding companies or asset protection.
3.Documentation and Submission
We assist you in gathering all required documentation, including passports, business plans, and approval letters. Our team ensures that everything is compliant with UAE laws.
4.Application and Government Liaison
We handle the entire submission process, liaising with government authorities to ensure a smooth approval process. We also provide assistance with additional permits, if needed.
5.License Issuance
Once your application is approved, we ensure the prompt issuance of your trade license, and assist with additional services like visa applications, office space setup, and corporate bank accounts.
Start your trade license process today with Raes Associates and launch your business with confidence.
Types of Business Licenses in UAE
Choosing the right business license is critical to your company’s operations. In the UAE, businesses typically fall under three main license categories: mainland, free zone, and offshore. Here's a breakdown of each:
- Mainland Trade License
Mainland licenses allow businesses to operate within the UAE market and engage with government agencies. With a mainland license, you can expand to any location within the UAE. This license is ideal for businesses that want to target local customers directly.
- Common Business Activities: Retail trade, hospitality, real estate, consulting, construction, manufacturing, and more.
Contact us today to get your mainland license and start operating across the UAE!
- Free Zone Trade License
Free zone licenses provide 100% foreign ownership and come with various tax incentives, making them ideal for businesses focusing on import/export or services without the need to interact directly with the local market.
- Common Business Activities: IT, logistics, e-commerce, media, manufacturing, and consultancy.
Contact us today to set up your business in a free zone with Raes Associates!
- Offshore Trade License
Offshore licenses are designed for businesses that do not require physical presence in the UAE but still want to benefit from tax exemptions, privacy, and the UAE’s favorable business environment.
- Common Business Activities: Holding companies, asset protection, international trade, and consultancy.
Contact us today to explore offshore licensing options for your business!
Cost of Business Licenses in the UAE
The cost of obtaining a trade license in the UAE varies depending on the license type, business activity, and location. Here’s a general overview of costs:
Contact us today to get an accurate cost estimate tailored to your business needs!
Raes Associates' License Renewal Process
At Raes Associates, we ensure the smooth renewal of your trade license every year. Here’s our process for license renewal:
-
Document Review
We verify that all your business documents are up to date and compliant with local regulations. -
Renewal Application
Our team submits the renewal application to the relevant government authorities. -
Deadline Management
Ensure renewals are completed before expiry to avoid fines.
We can also process your visa and permit renewals alongside your license renewal.
Value-Added Services by Raes Associates
We support your business beyond licensing:
FAQ
- What’s the difference between mainland, free zone, and offshore licenses?
A mainland license allows you to operate within the UAE market, while a free zone license offers 100% foreign ownership and tax exemptions for international businesses. Offshore licenses are for businesses not intending to operate directly within the UAE but seeking tax benefits and privacy. - How long does it take to get a trade license?
The process generally takes 7 to 14 days, depending on the license type and complexity of your business setup. - Can Raes Associates assist with the license renewal process?
Yes, we handle the entire renewal process to ensure your business remains operational without interruptions. - What documents are required for a trade license application?
The key documents include passport copies, business plans, proof of address, and any approvals from relevant authorities.
Contact us today to begin your business license registration with Raes Associates!
Whether you are looking to set up a mainland, free zone, or offshore company, we provide expert assistance to ensure a smooth and timely registration process.
