Obtaining a trade license is an essential requirement for starting a business in the UAE. Whether you are looking to operate in the mainland, free zone, or offshore, each business structure comes with its own set of advantages. At Raes Associates, we make the licensing process efficient, ensuring compliance with all regulations and streamlining approvals. Our expertise will guide you through the entire process, helping you secure the necessary licenses with ease. 
 

Raes Steps to Obtain a Trade License in UAE

Raes Associates offers an efficient process for obtaining a trade license in the UAE, covering mainland, free zone, and offshore licenses. Here’s how we guide you: 

  1. 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. 

Contact us today to start your trade license registration with Raes Associates! 

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: 

  1. 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! 

  1. 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! 

  1. 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: 

Mainland License
Typically ranges from AED 10,000 to AED 30,000, depending on the scale and nature of your business.
Free Zone License
Generally starts at AED 12,000 and can go up to AED 40,000 depending on the free zone and business activity.
Offshore License
Usually costs between AED 10,000 and AED 20,000, based on the offshore jurisdiction chosen.

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.
  • Timely Processing

    We ensure that your license is renewed before expiration, preventing any disruption to your business operations.

Contact us today to get an accurate cost estimate tailored to your business needs! 

Shape Value-Added Services

we offer a variety of services to ensure that your business continues to grow and operate seamlessly: 

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Visa Services
We assist with investor visas, employee visas, and family visas.
Document Translation and Notarization
We assist with translating and notarizing official documents required by UAE authorities.
Corporate Bank Account Setup
We help you set up your business account in a UAE bank.
Tax and Accounting Services
We offer accounting, auditing, and VAT registration services to help you stay compliant with UAE tax laws.
Office Space Solutions
We can assist with renting office space or setting up a virtual office.

 

FAQ 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Can Raes Associates assist with the license renewal process?
    Yes, we handle the entire renewal process to ensure your business remains operational without interruptions.
  4. 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.