Mainland Commercial License in Abu Dhabi, UAE
What is a Commercial License?
A commercial license is essential for anyone looking to buy, trade, sell goods, or engage in any trading activities in Abu Dhabi. This license is issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and is valid for one year.
Business Activities Covered Under the Commercial License
The primary activities that fall under the commercial license in Abu Dhabi include:
- General Trading License
- Specific Trading License
- Import and Export
- Logistics
- Real Estate-related Activities
- General Transport Services
- Equipment Rental Business
- Brokerage Services
Advantages of a Commercial License
- Ease of Acquisition: Obtaining this license is generally simpler compared to other business licenses.
- Diverse Trading Options: You can trade multiple products or services under one license.
- Geographical Flexibility: Business owners can operate in any region within the UAE.
- Multiple Activities: Conduct various business activities under a single license.
- Secure Engagements: Enjoy secure business dealings with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
- Location Flexibility: Choose any location in Abu Dhabi for your business with no restrictions.
- Employment Visas: You can apply for employment visas and labor quotas.
- Simple Renewal: No auditing is required during the renewal process.
- Banking Convenience: Easily open a corporate bank account.
- Cost-Effective Logistics: Benefit from low freight charges.
- Ready-to-Use Spaces: Access to pre-built offices, factories, and commercial spaces.
- No Foreign Exchange Controls: Enjoy unrestricted foreign exchange transactions.
Required Documents for a Mainland Commercial License
To apply for a commercial license, you will need the following documents:
- An application form with the company name specified in both Arabic and English.
- Approval letter from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development regarding the company name.
- Lease contract form with the registered address of the company.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) from the sponsor and partners.
- Permit from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development for the office space used as the company’s business address.
- Proof of license fees payment.
Steps to Obtain a Commercial License
- Determine Business Nature: Identify the nature of the business you wish to start in the UAE (additional approvals may be required based on the activity).
- Initial Approval: Obtain initial approval from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
- Local Sponsorship: Depending on the business activity, you may need to secure a local sponsor. We can assist you in finding a reliable sponsor.
- Drafting Legal Documents: Our experts will prepare the Articles of Association (AOA) and Memorandum of Association (MOA) detailing the company’s rules and regulations, in both Arabic and English.
- Choose a Trade Name: Select a trade name that complies with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development’s guidelines.
- Office Space: Rent office space, whether it’s a Flexi desk or a virtual office, and complete the Ejari registration process if leasing an office.
- Obtain Necessary Approvals: Secure approvals from the relevant ministries and departments.
Instant Commercial License
Launched in 2017 by the BRL sector of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, the Instant Commercial License simplifies the process of obtaining a commercial license. To expedite your application, follow these steps:
- Select the nature of your business activity.
- Finalize the activity and list all partners, along with their respective profit and loss shares.
- Reserve a trade name, either by choosing a new name or using an automatically generated one.
- Specify the capital value in the commercial register data.
- Choose to include or skip the electronic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
- Wait for the payment voucher and then pay the fees.
If you have any questions, our team is here to guide you through the legal formalities and licensing services.
Renewal Process for Commercial License
The commercial license is valid for one year, and it must be renewed upon expiration. Once renewed, the license will be extended for five years. The following documents are required for renewal:
- Copy of the trade license
- Copy of the office lease contract
- Relevant approvals from the authority or ministry
- Information regarding employees’ accommodation for foreign shareholders
For expert assistance in obtaining or renewing your commercial license, contact us today!