A business license in Dubai Free Zone is an important investment step for many entrepreneurs and ambitious startups. This license represents a gateway to one of the most dynamic and developed markets in the world, the Emirate of Dubai, which is famous for its thriving economic environment and innovative government facilities.
Itqan Company cooperates with investors and aspiring entrepreneurs to facilitate the processes of obtaining trade licenses in the Dubai Free Zone. Through its extensive experience in this field and its extensive network of relationships and resources, Itqan provides the necessary support and guidance to individuals and companies to achieve their business goals efficiently and smoothly.
A business license in the free zone is characterized by a number of advantages, including tax exemptions, easy access to regional and global markets, advanced infrastructure, in addition to excellent government support for businesses. In cooperation with Itqan, investors can make the most of this opportunity and achieve sustainable success in their business operations in Dubai and beyond.
In short, a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone in cooperation with Itqan Company is a golden opportunity for those wishing to invest and expand in a market characterized by dynamism and abundant opportunities.
Obtaining a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone
To obtain a commercial license in a free zone in Dubai, there are several steps that must be followed by every investor. These procedures are represented in the following points:
Choose a free zone
Select the free zone in which you wish to establish your company. In Dubai, there are many free zones available such as Jebel Ali Free Zone, Jebel Ali Industrial Free Zone, Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone, and Dubai World Trade Free Zone (Jebel Ali, Al Jaddaf, Al Quoz, etc.).
Choose the type of license
Determine the type of commercial license appropriate for your company’s activity. There can be several types of business licenses, such as limited company, joint stock company, central technology and media company, and others.
Submission of the application
You may be required to apply for a business license from the competent authority in your chosen free zone. You must fill out the required form and submit all required documents with it.
The required documents
The required documents may vary depending on the type of license and free zone, but in general, you may need to provide the following documents:
- A copy of the passports of the main shareholders or partners.
- Completed application form.
- The social contract of the company.
- Document proving ownership of the main office.
- Business plan.
- Notice of effective implementation management.
Payment of fees
You may be required to pay the fees required to submit and process the application. You must review the fee structure specified by the competent authority in the free zone.
Approval and issuance of the licence
After submitting the application, submitting the required documents, and paying the fees, the application will be reviewed and the commercial license will be issued if all requirements are met. You must also ensure compliance with all local laws and regulations and consult Itqan Company’s experts in business in the specified free zone to ensure your full compliance with the legal requirements and procedures.

Renewal of a commercial license in free zones
Read also: Establishing a company in Dubai
Types of business licenses available in Dubai
Type of license | the description |
---|---|
Business license | It gives companies the ability to conduct business in general inside and outside the free zone, including services, retail, manufacturing, and others. |
Industrial license | It allows companies to produce and manufacture products within the free zone, and products can be imported and exported freely without imposing customs duties. |
Services license | It allows companies to provide a variety of consulting and professional services inside and outside the free zone, such as engineering consulting, accounting, information technology, and others. |
Free trade license | It allows individuals to conduct business individually without the need for local partners, and provides a flexible business opportunity for individuals who want to start their own business in the free zone. |
These are some of the types of business licenses available in Dubai Free Zone, which cater to different needs of investors and entrepreneurs.
Documents for obtaining a commercial license in Dubai
The documents required to apply for a business license in the Dubai Free Zone may vary based on the type of company and its activity, but usually include the following basic documents:
- Commercial license application form: You must fill out the official form to apply for a commercial license from the relevant authorities in the free zone.
- A copy of the passport: for each shareholder and director in the company.
- Personal photos: of each shareholder and director in the company.
- Business plan (commercial plan): A detail of the company’s objectives, proposed activities, marketing and financing plans.
- Memorandum of Association: A breakdown of the company’s structure and activities.
- Internal rules and regulations (Articles of Association): Organizational details for managing the company.
- Birth certificate or identity documents: for shareholders and directors.
- Proof of address: Registered address of the company.
- Registration fees: The fees required to register the company must be paid.
- Activity permits: In some cases, a company may require activity-specific permits such as building, health, or safety permits.
Remember that these documents are just a basic list, a business license in Dubai Free Zone may require additional documents or the requirements may vary based on the type of company and business activity. It is recommended to check the exact requirements of the specific free zone before starting the application process by our company by contacting us.

Costs of commercial licenses in free zones
Related topics: Establishing a company in Jebel Ali
Cost of a business license in Dubai Free Zone
The cost of a business license in Dubai may vary based on several factors, including the type of company, its business activity, and the specific free zone. The cost of the license usually includes several elements, including:
- Registration fees: These fees are paid to the competent authorities in the free zone as part of the company registration process.
- License Fees: A company may require an annual or semi-annual fee to maintain a business license.
- Additional services fees: There may be additional fees for consulting or administrative services provided by the free zone.
- Office costs: You may have to pay rental costs for an office or work space within the free zone.
- Legal fees: The cost of the license may also include legal fees for lawyers or consultants who may assist in the company formation process.
Please note that these fees and costs for a business license in Dubai Free Zone may vary significantly based on the type of company, the size of its business, and its specific requirements. It is advisable to check the specific fees of the specific free zone in which you intend to invest before starting the registration process.
Activities permitted in the Dubai Free Zone
A commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone, allowing a variety of commercial, industrial and service activities. Here are some of the activities permitted in the Dubai Free Zone :
- General trade: including trade in miscellaneous goods and consumer goods.
- Financial services: such as banking, insurance, and investment.
- Manufacturing: This includes light and heavy manufacturing of various products.
- Logistics services: such as warehousing, distribution, transportation and shipping services.
- Technology and information technology: including software, web development, and providing technical services.
- Consulting and professional services: such as engineering, accounting, legal and marketing consultancy.
- Hospitality and tourism: such as hotels, restaurants, and tourism services.
- Health and medicine: such as medical clinics, hospitals and other health services.
- Entertainment and culture: such as entertainment centers, exhibitions and museums.
These are just some of the activities permitted in the Dubai Free Zone, and the list can vary according to the specific free zone, economic trends and government regulations. It is advisable to check the activities permitted in the specific free zone before starting the company establishment process.

Commercial licenses in the free zone
Types of companies in the Dubai Free Zone
Business License In the Dubai Free Zone, several types of companies are provided that you can establish and register. Here are some common types of companies in the Dubai Free Zone:
- Sole Proprietorship: Also known as a “sole proprietorship”, this is a business run by just one person. The owner is solely responsible for the business and financial obligations of the company. This company is a good choice for individuals who want to start a small business.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): A limited liability company is a common form of company in the free zone. This corporation has a legal personality separate from the shareholders, and usually has the benefits of protecting shareholders from personal financial liability.
- Joint Stock Company: Also known as a public company, it is a company in which the capital is divided into shares. Shareholders own shares and share in the company’s profits and losses according to the percentage of shareholding they own.
- Limited Liability Company (FZ-LLC): This company is a form of limited liability company and is established in the free zones of Dubai. It has the same advantages as a limited liability company, but is subject to free zone legislation.
- Subsidiary Company: National and international companies can establish branches in the Dubai Free Zone. The branch is considered part of the parent company and is subject to the laws and legislation of the free zone.
Remember that there are differences in requirements and procedures for each type of company, and it is advisable to consult with the body supervising the free zone you are interested in for more detailed information and guidance on establishing and registering the company in the Dubai free zone.
Advantages of obtaining a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone
Obtaining a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone provides the investor with many advantages that will help in establishing all sizes of companies and owners of different nationalities. Among the advantages of obtaining a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone are the following:
- Many free zones in Dubai are suitable for various business activities.
- Full tax exemption on companies and personal income up to 50 years.
- The strong and advanced infrastructure in the free zones helps in establishing businesses.
- Full right to 100% foreign ownership of the company.
- Freedom to recover capital and dispose of profits by 100%
- Providing dual licensing opportunities.
- Freedom to form multiple options for administrative and legal structures.
- No restrictions on currencies.
- Freedom to employ foreign resources and human resources.
The difference between a commercial license and a professional license
When looking to set up a business in Dubai, people face a lot of choices, including which type of license is appropriate for their business or professional activity. Among these options, the commercial license and professional license stand out as the main options. When starting a business in Dubai, choosing the right type of license is vital. Dubai provides an environment full of opportunities for businesses, and there are two basic licenses that can be considered: a commercial license and a professional license. Although they each have different benefits and needs, it is important to understand the difference between them to make the best decision
The following table shows the difference between a commercial license and a professional license in Dubai:
Element | Business license | Professional license |
---|---|---|
the purpose | For companies wishing to engage in international business and trade. | For individuals who wish to practice a specific profession or professional activity. |
Validity | It allows companies to carry out international business and trade operations. | It allows individuals to practice a specific profession or professional activity. |
Geographic scope | A company’s operations can be domestic or international. | The geographic scope is often limited to a specific area within Dubai. |
the responsibility | The company is responsible for its debts and obligations separately from its owners. | The individual is responsible for his professional and financial obligations. |
Number of people participating | The business license can be for a sole proprietorship or a partnership venture. | A professional license is usually for one person. |
Legal and financial conditions | Typically requires more capital and finding office space for the company. | The legal and financial terms are less complex than with a commercial licence. |
Additional expenses | It may require additional legal and financial procedures such as lease agreements and hiring employees. | The additional fees and procedures are usually much lower than for a commercial license. |
This table provides the main differences between a commercial license and a professional license in Dubai, which can help in understanding the differences and choosing the appropriate type depending on the type of business or professional activity that the individual or company wishes to practice.
At the conclusion of this article, we find that a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone in cooperation with Itqan Company represents an excellent investment opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs seeking to expand their business in the thriving emirate of Dubai and beyond. By taking advantage of the facilities and benefits offered by this license, companies and individuals can achieve sustainable success and achieve their business goals efficiently and smoothly.
Dubai Free Zone is considered a gateway to the markets of the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, and provides advanced infrastructure and a business environment that supports innovation and growth. In cooperation with Itqan, investors can make the most of this opportunity and enjoy the support and guidance needed to successfully achieve their business goals.
Given all these factors, investing in a business license in a Dubai free zone is an attractive option for businesses and individuals seeking to take advantage of the abundant opportunities available in this dynamic market. The presence of Itqan Company as an advisory partner guarantees investors the right guidance and support necessary to achieve success and growth in their business journey in Dubai and beyond.
The most important frequently asked questions about a commercial license in Dubai Free Zone
What are the free zones in Dubai?
Free zones in Dubai include areas such as Jebel Ali, Dubailand, Global Village, and others.
Can foreign individuals obtain a work permit in free zones?
Yes, foreign individuals can obtain a work permit in free zones, and the procedures depend on the type of company and commercial activity.
How can I obtain a work license in the Dubai Free Zone?
You must apply to the responsible authority in the free zone, specify the type of company and activity, and submit the required documents.
What are the fees involved in obtaining a work license in the free zone?
Fees depend on the type of company and business activity, and official fee schedules should be checked.
Can I transfer my work license from one free zone to another in Dubai?
Yes, a business license can be transferred between free zones in Dubai, but this is subject to procedures and approval.
What are the tax and customs benefits for companies in free zones in Dubai?
Benefits include tax and customs exemptions, and ease of importing and exporting.
Can companies in free zones deal with the local market in Dubai?
Companies in free zones can deal with the local market, but there are some restrictions on some activities.