How much does a Dubai free zone business license cost? When considering starting a business in Dubai, the cost of obtaining a free zone business license is a key factor to consider. Free zones in Dubai provide an ideal business environment, with various benefits such as tax exemptions and 100% foreign ownership. However, business license costs vary based on several factors including the type of business, the size of the company, and the benefits offered by the free zone. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the factors that affect the cost of a Dubai free zone business license and how to choose the right options based on your business needs.

Cost of a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone

Dubai Free Zone Business License Cost Factors

The cost of obtaining a business license in the Dubai Free Zone depends on several main factors, which include:

1. Type of Business: Business license costs vary depending on the type of business you wish to engage in. Some businesses require special licenses or additional permits, which impacts the overall cost.
2. Selected Free Zone: Fees vary between different free zones in Dubai. Some areas may offer incentives and facilities that may impact the cost, while others offer cheaper options but with limited benefits.
3. Number of licenses required: If you have more than one business or want to obtain multiple licenses, the cost will increase accordingly.
4. Number of employees and offices: The cost of the license also depends on the number of offices you need and the number of employees. Some free zones set fees based on the number of employees or office space required.
5. Additional Services: Costs also include fees for additional services such as legal consulting services, accounting services, and administrative support services.
6. License Duration: The fees are determined based on the validity period of the license, whether it is one year or more.
7. Understanding these factors helps in estimating the total cost of a Dubai Free Zone business license and choosing the most suitable option based on your project needs.

Conditions for obtaining a commercial license in the Dubai Free Zone

To obtain a business license in the Dubai Free Zone, a number of conditions and requirements must be met, which vary slightly between free zones. However, in general, the basic requirements include:

1. Choosing a business activity: You must determine the business activity you wish to engage in, as each free zone may specialize in certain activities.
2. Submitting an application: You need to submit an application for the license from the authority responsible for your chosen free zone. The application includes information about the business activity, company information, and business plans.
3. Choosing a location: You need to choose an office or commercial location in the free zone. Some areas may offer ready-made office spaces, while others require you to rent or purchase your own space.
4. Compliance with laws: Your business must comply with the laws and regulations of the free zone and permitted activities.
5. Providing capital: You may need to prove that you have the capital required to establish the company, according to the requirements specified by the free zone.
6. Registration Procedures: The company registration procedures must be completed, which include registering the company name, obtaining the necessary approvals, and submitting the necessary documents.
7. Fees: Pay the fees required to obtain and renew the license, which vary depending on the free zone and the type of business activity.
8. Required documents: A set of documents must be submitted, such as:

• Valid passport for the company founders.
• Proof of residence (if the founders are residents of Dubai).
• Articles of Association and Company Contract.
• License application form.

Be sure to check the specific requirements of each free zone, as there may be additional requirements or special procedures that vary from one zone to another.

Types of commercial licenses in Dubai

In Dubai, there are several types of business licenses available, depending on the type of business activity and the field in which the business operates. The main types include:

1. General Commercial License: Includes trading in goods and products in general, and is suitable for companies that sell, import and export goods.
2. Industrial License: Granted to companies operating in the field of manufacturing and production, such as production factories or workshops.
3. Professional License: Includes professions that require professional skills or services, such as legal consulting, accounting, and design services.
4. Tourism License: For activities related to the tourism sector, such as organizing tourist trips, travel agencies, and hotels.
5. E-commerce License: Granted to companies that operate their business online or engage in e-commerce.
6. Free Zone License: This is granted to companies operating within the free zones in Dubai, such as the Jebel Ali, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah free zones, and benefits from advantages such as tax exemptions and full foreign ownership.
7. Branch License: Granted to branches established for a foreign or local company operating in Dubai, and registered under the name of the parent company.
8. Special Activity License: Includes commercial or professional activities of a special nature that may require additional licenses or special approvals from the competent authorities.
   Each type of these licenses requires meeting specific conditions and requirements, so it is important to choose the appropriate type based on the commercial activity you intend to practice and ensure that all legal and procedural requirements are met.

Dubai Free Zone Business License Steps

To obtain a commercial license in Dubai Free Zone, you can follow the following steps:

1. Choosing a Free Zone: Choose the free zone that best suits your business and needs. Each free zone may offer different features and specializations.
2. Select the business activity: Select the type of business activity you wish to engage in. Ensure that the activity is compatible with the activities permitted in the selected free zone.
3. Applying: Apply for a trade license from the authority responsible for the free zone. This may require filling out an application form and providing information about your company and its activities.
   Gather the required documents, which typically include: Valid passports for founders and directors. Proof of residency if you are a resident of Dubai. Articles of Association and Company Contract.
4. Choosing a location: Select an office or commercial location in the free zone. Some areas offer ready-made office spaces, while others require renting or purchasing office space.
5. Registration: Register the company in the free zone, which includes registering the company name and obtaining the necessary approvals. You may be required to submit a business plan and details about the company’s activities.
6. Pay fees: Pay the fees required to obtain and renew the license. Fees vary depending on the free zone and the type of activity.
7. Receiving the license: After completing all procedures and paying the fees, the commercial license will be issued. You can receive the license from the responsible authority.
8. License Renewal: Make sure to renew your trade license before it expires to ensure your business can continue legally.
   Be sure to check any additional requirements specific to each free zone, as procedures can vary slightly by zone and business sector.

Etqan Company Services for Renewing a Commercial License in the Dubai Free Zone

Itqan Company provides a comprehensive range of services to help obtain a commercial license in the free zones of Dubai . These services include:

1. Advice: Itqan provides specialized advice to help you choose the right free zone and type of commercial license based on your business activity and needs.
2. Collecting and preparing documents: The company helps you collect and prepare all the documents required to apply for the license, including passport, proof of residence, and articles of association.
3. Preparing and submitting the application: Itqan Company is responsible for preparing and submitting the application for obtaining a commercial license to the competent authorities in the free zone.
4. Dealing with government agencies: The company deals with government agencies and officials in the free zone to ensure the completion of all registration procedures and obtaining the necessary approvals.
5. Site selection and preparation: Itqan Company helps you choose a suitable office or commercial site in the free zone and facilitates the procedures for renting or obtaining it.
6. Legal Operations Management: The company provides legal services including preparing contracts, reviewing legal documents, and ensuring compliance with local laws.
7. Payment of fees: Itqan Company manages the process of paying the fees required to obtain and renew the license, and provides support in this regard.
8. Technical Support: The company provides continuous technical support throughout the application period and your obtaining of the license, to ensure that any problems that may arise are resolved.
9. License Renewal: The company provides services to renew the commercial license upon its expiration, including handling the necessary documents and procedures.
   By using the services of Itqan Company, you can simplify the process of obtaining a commercial license in the free zones of Dubai and ensure that you comply with all legal and procedural requirements.

In conclusion, the cost of obtaining a business license in a Dubai free zone is affected by a number of important factors, including the type of business activity, the free zone chosen, and the additional services required. Understanding these factors can help you set the right budget and avoid unexpected costs. It is also essential to be aware of all fees and taxes associated with the license to ensure you make an informed decision. With the advantages that free zones offer such as tax exemptions and full ownership, these areas are an attractive option for many entrepreneurs. With proper planning and choosing the right partner such as Itqan, you can facilitate the process of obtaining your business license and ensure the success of your business project in Dubai’s thriving business environment.