Now it’s easier than ever to understand the commercial registration cost Dubai thanks to digital investor portals, especially after you complete company pre-approval and choose the right activity mix. This guide explains the exact fee components, a clean step-by-step process to obtain your trade license, and practical notes that keep your budget accurate from day one.
Quick overview: What drives your total cost?
- License type (commercial, professional, industrial) and number of activities added.
- Issuing authority (Dubai mainland vs. Dubai free zones such as JAFZA/Meydan/IFZA).
- Trade name reservation, initial approval, license issuance, and legal contracts.
- Premises costs (physical office or approved virtual/desk options) and signboard permits.
Estimated fee table for opening a commercial register in Dubai
| Item | Typical Value / Notes |
|---|---|
| Trade name reservation | Base fee; varies with name type/availability |
| Initial approval | Low fee prior to license issuance |
| Trade license issuance | Core fee + chamber membership (varies by activity) |
| Regulated activities add-ons | Higher for general trading/investment/real estate, etc. |
| MoA/Local Service Agent notarisation | Attestation fee varies by number of parties/value |
| Premises (office or approved virtual desk) | Legal requirement; minimum area may apply on mainland |
| Signboard/advertising permits | Depends on size, location, and duration |
How to open a commercial register in Dubai (step-by-step)
- Go to the official economic portal (Investor Services).
- Select e-services for investors and sign up/sign in with email and password.
- Choose “Open commercial registration in Dubai” for residents/foreigners.
- Enter company details, select primary and secondary activities, and add all parties.
- Pick the license type (Trader/Commercial/Instant) to match your activity scope.
- Upload signed documents for all parties as required.
- Pay fees and receive the trade license; your commercial register is then activated.
Commercial registration cost Dubai: important notes
- Initial issuance is a one-time payment that typically covers initial approvals, the trade name, and the license itself.
- Total outlay is usually a few thousand dirhams, changing with license type, activities, and issuing authority.
- Costs depend on legal documents and scheduled payments; fee brackets differ by sector and location (mainland vs. free zone).
Business bank account requirements (recommended)
- Trade license and commercial registration (after issuance).
- MoA/shareholding docs and a registered lease (or approved virtual office where allowed).
- Passports/Emirates IDs of partners, proof of address/income if required.
- Bank reference or statements and a short business plan outlining activities.
Company setup steps in Dubai (practical summary)
- Select your intended activity scope.
- Choose the legal form (sole establishment/LLC/branch, etc.).
- Pick a compliant trade name.
- Submit legal documents and secure initial approval.
- Notarise the company contract/Local Service Agent agreement where applicable.
- Complete any extra approvals from competent authorities.
- Confirm your premises and final activity scope and attach payment receipts.
Conditions to open a commercial register in Dubai
- Define your activity (commercial/industrial/professional) before applying to streamline approvals.
- The trade name must reflect the activity, avoid restricted terms, and not duplicate protected names.
- Provide a notarised tenancy contract for your office from the real estate authority, or an approved virtual option where applicable.
- Avoid duplicating multiple licenses of the same type; validate any added activities with the licensing department.
Key advantages of setting up in Dubai
- Flexible digital payments for investment costs and 24/7 government e-services.
- Fast-track legal processes through integrated online platforms.
- A thriving, competitive business hub for MENA expansion.
- Access to Dubai free zones—especially Jebel Ali—with ownership freedom and operational benefits.
Tdabeer is the optimal solution
Leverage Tdabeer to calculate your commercial registration cost Dubai precisely and complete all legal steps end-to-end—clear fee plans, bilingual support, and zero surprises from application to license issuance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I complete the entire process online?
Yes—most steps are digital, including trade name, initial approval, and license issuance.
Does the commercial registration cost differ between mainland and free zones?
Yes—fees vary by issuing authority, activity, and premises. Some free zones offer competitive all-inclusive starter bundles.
What minimum documents do I need to start?
Partner passports/IDs, proposed activity and trade name, chosen legal form, and a proposed office/virtual desk.
Does the initial estimate include annual renewal?
Initial issuance is one-time; annual renewals (license and related memberships) apply thereafter.
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