Launch Your Business Fast with a UAE Trade License in 2025
February 25, 2022
September 23, 2025
June 24, 2025
September 23, 2025
Topic Summary
1. Streamlined Digital Application Process
In 2025, obtaining a UAE trade license is fully digitised, enabling entrepreneurs to complete their application online swiftly and securely. This modern approach minimises paperwork and eliminates the need for physical visits, accelerating the overall timeline for business setup.
2. Tailored Solutions for Diverse Business Types
Whether you are a solopreneur, launching an e-commerce platform, or expanding an existing enterprise, the UAE trade license system offers customised options to suit various business activities and structures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
3. Rapid Approval through Meydan Free Zone
Meydan Free Zone facilitates one of the fastest licensing services, allowing you to secure your trade license in less than an hour. This expedited process is designed to empower entrepreneurs to start operations promptly without unnecessary delays.
4. Comprehensive Legal Compliance and Market Access
Possessing a trade license grants your business legal recognition in the UAE, enabling you to open bank accounts, enter into contracts, and access both local and international markets confidently in accordance with UAE laws.
5. Cost-Effective and Transparent Licensing Fees
The licensing fees in 2025 remain competitive and transparent, often inclusive of essential services like visa processing and office facilities, offering value for money and simplifying budget planning for new businesses.
Want to launch a business in the UAE? You’ll need a trade license — but don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.
In 2025, getting your UAE trade license is fast, digital, and built around you. Whether you're a solopreneur, starting an online store, or expanding into new markets, your license is what gets you up and running — legally and confidently.
With Meydan Free Zone, the whole process takes less than an hour. You get 100% ownership, access to over 2,500 business activities, and end-to-end support for visas, banking, and compliance. No paperwork. No delays. Just a simple, smart way to start.
Understanding the Trade License in Dubai, UAE
A trade license is a legal document that allows individuals or companies to conduct business in Dubai.
It is issued by either the Department of Economic Development (for mainland businesses) or by a free zone authority such as Meydan Free Zone.
You need a trade license to:
- Register your business legally in the UAE
- Open a corporate bank account
- Invoice clients and collect payments
- Apply for residence visas for yourself and your team
- Comply with UAE business and tax regulations
Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai, UAE
There are several types of trade licenses in Dubai, depending on the nature of your business:
- Commercial License – For general trading and commercial activities
- Professional License – For service-based businesses such as consulting, design, or education
- Industrial License – For manufacturing or industrial operations
- Sole Establishment License – For individual professionals
The most common license issued is a commercial license, which covers a wide variety of activities under a single company structure.
Cost and Payments of the Dubai Trade License
The Dubai trade license cost varies depending on several factors:
- Whether you include visa eligibility
- Number and type of activities
- Free zone vs mainland jurisdiction
- Additional services such as name reservation or office space
Using our free trade license cost calculator, you can get a personalised estimate based on your business type, visa needs, and any add-ons. Everything’s transparent, with simple payment options online.
No hidden fees. No guesswork. Just clear pricing from day one.
Benefits of Getting Your Dubai Trade License Through Meydan Free Zone
When you apply for a Dubai trade license with Meydan Free Zone, you unlock several strategic advantages:
- Instant Setup: Get your license issued digitally in less than 60 minutes
- 100% Foreign Ownership: No local sponsor or agent required
- Wide Business Activity Range: Choose from over 2,500 approved activities
- Visa and Non-Visa Packages: Flexibility to grow at your own pace
- Bank Account Support: Help with opening a business bank account through Meydan Plus
- Flexi Desk Included: A flexible workspace you can use when needed.
These benefits make Meydan Free Zone one of the best options for business setup in Dubai, UAE.
What Else Do You Get With a Meydan Trade License?
Getting your trade license is just the beginning. At Meydan Free Zone, we go beyond the paperwork to give your business the tools and services it needs to thrive from day one.
Here’s what else is available to you as part of our ecosystem:
- Payment Gateway Integration: We connect you with leading local and global payment providers, so you can start accepting online payments smoothly and securely — whether you sell products, services, or subscriptions.
- Logistics & Fulfilment Support: Need help with shipping or delivery? Through our partners, you can access cost-effective courier, warehousing, and cross-border fulfilment services to power your e-commerce or trading business.
- Warehousing Solutions: If you need physical storage for goods, we’ll link you to trusted warehousing partners that offer scalable solutions — from small units to bulk storage — depending on your business needs.
- Ongoing Business Services (via Meydan Plus): From VAT registration and accounting to PRO services, admin support, and more — Meydan Plus is here to keep you focused on growth while we handle the back-end.
- Partner Network Access: Get instant access to our curated network of banks, tech providers, hiring platforms, and legal advisors — no need to hunt for services or worry about compliance.
With Meydan Free Zone, your trade license comes with a launchpad — one that’s built to help your business start strong and scale smarter.
Trade License Renewal in Dubai, UAE
Trade license renewal in Dubai is required annually to maintain your business status and avoid fines.
The process is simple with Meydan Free Zone:
- Verify or update business information
- Submit a renewal request online
- Pay the renewal fee
- Receive updated license and documentation
We notify you in advance and provide ongoing support through our client service team.
FAQs
1. What is a Dubai trade license?
A Dubai trade license is an official document that allows individuals or companies to carry out business activities legally in the UAE.
2. How long does it take to get a trade license in Dubai?
With Meydan Free Zone, you can get your trade license issued in less than 60 minutes through a fully digital process.
3. How much does a Dubai trade license cost?
Trade license costs start at AED 12,500 at Meydan Free Zone, depending on your business activities, visa requirements, and whether you need a business bank account.
4. Can I apply for a Dubai trade license online?
Yes, you can apply entirely online with Meydan Free Zone — from submitting documents to receiving your digital license.
5. What business activities are allowed under a Dubai trade license?
You can choose from over 2,500 approved activities, including trading, consulting, e-commerce, marketing, and more.
6. Do I need office space to apply for a Dubai trade license?
No physical office is required. Your Meydan Free Zone license includes a flexi desk, which satisfies local setup requirements.
7. Can I sponsor employees with my trade license?
Yes, visa allocations can be included in your Meydan Free Zone trade license, which allow you to sponsor yourself, your staff, and dependents.
8. Is a Meydan Free Zone license valid across the UAE?
Yes, you can operate within your licensed activities and trade locally and internationally.
9. How do I pay for a Dubai trade license?
You can pay securely online with options for installments or upfront payment.
10. What if I forget to renew my trade license?
Late renewals may lead to penalties or business suspension. Meydan Free Zone sends reminders and offers full support for timely renewals.
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