The difference between a trade license and a commercial register is an important topic for understanding the process of establishing and operating companies. The commercial register and trade license are an essential part of the business structure in many countries. Let’s take a look at the topic. A commercial registry is a government register that contains information about registered companies and businesses in the country. The commercial register usually contains details such as the company name, business activity, where the company is headquartered, the date it was founded, and contact information. The commercial registry is usually managed by the competent government agencies. A commercial license is an official permit issued by local authorities or regulatory bodies, allowing an individual or company to practice the commercial activity specified in the license. The business license contains details such as the type of business activity, the location where the business can be conducted, and other terms and conditions related to doing business. Most of the time, a copy of the business license is kept in the commercial registry as part of the company’s record. However, it should be noted that the commercial registry contains additional information related to the company in addition to the trade license.
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ToggleRequirements for obtaining commercial licenses
Requirements for obtaining commercial licenses vary from one country to another and according to the type of business activity and local legislation. However, there are some general requirements that may include:
- Company Registration: You may have to register the company with the local authorities or relevant bodies. This includes determining the company structure and type such as limited company or sole proprietorship.
- Company name: You must specify the company name and ensure that it is not similar to the names of other existing companies.
- Commercial activity: You must specify the commercial activity that you intend to practice. This could be selling certain products or providing certain services.
- Required papers: Obtaining a license may require submitting some documents such as personal identification, necessary qualifications certificates, lease or ownership contracts for the work site, bank accounts, and others.
- Taxes and fees: You may need to register with local tax authorities and pay required fees and taxes, such as value-added tax (VAT) or income tax.
- Compliance with Laws and Regulations: Businesses must comply with local laws and regulations related to trade, consumer protection, labor rights, and more.
Types of business licenses in Dubai
In Dubai, there are several types of business licenses that investors can choose from, depending on the type of business activity and the needs of the company. Here are some of the main types of business licenses in Dubai:
- Commercial License: Allows all types of legitimate businesses to be practiced.
- Professional License: Allows individuals to practice their professional or technical activities individually. This license includes fields such as medicine, engineering, and law.
- Industrial License: Issued to companies working in the field of production and manufacturing. This license includes activities such as manufacturing, assembly, and storage of products.
- Branch License: Issued to foreign companies that wish to open branches in Dubai. These branches must operate in the same field as the parent company.
- Electronic Business License (E-Trader License): Allows individuals to conduct business online without the need for a physical office. Suitable for small projects and individual business owners.
- Free Zone Registration License: Issued in private free zones in Dubai, providing benefits such as full foreign ownership and tax exemptions.
- Direct Sales License: Issued to companies that market and sell products directly to customers. It may be of a network marketing nature.
- Publishing and Printing License: Allows companies to work in the field of publishing and printing.
- Events and Exhibitions License: Issued to companies that wish to organize events and exhibitions.
What does a business license cost in Dubai?
The costs of obtaining a business license vary from one country to another and from one city to another. Costs are affected by many factors, including country, business activity, company size, and other legal and administrative requirements.
Generally, the cost of obtaining a business license usually includes the following expenses:
- Registration fees: The cost of registering the company and obtaining the initial business license.
- Annual license fees: The cost of renewing the business license annually.
- Legal and accounting consulting fees: You may need to engage legal or accounting consultants to assist in preparing the required documents and providing legal advice.
- Contracts and Legal Documents Fees: You may need to pay fees to prepare and document the necessary contracts and legal agreements.
- Tax Fees: There may be local tax duties or profits taxes you need to pay depending on local legislation.
It is important to contact local stakeholders, such as government agencies or regulators, to obtain more specific information about the costs of obtaining a business license in the location where you intend to operate the business.

Costs of a business license in Dubai
How to register in the commercial registry in Dubai ?
The process of registering in the commercial registry varies from one country to another and may require specific legal and administrative procedures. However, the following are general steps that can apply to the registration process in the commercial registry:
- Study the legal requirements: Before starting the registration process, you must familiarize yourself with the legal requirements and procedures in the country or territory in which you intend to register the commercial registry. You can obtain this information from the relevant authorities such as the competent authority or the local chamber of commerce.
- Choosing the type of company: Before registering, you must determine the type of company you want to create, such as joint stock company, limited liability company, sole proprietorship, etc. Your choices must comply with local laws and regulations.
- Preparing the required documents: Prepare the documents required for the registration process, which may include, for example: the registration application form, a copy of the legal official’s personal identity, contracts or agreements related to the company, and any other documents required in accordance with local laws.
- Submitting an application: You may have to apply for registration with the relevant authority or local chamber of commerce. The required forms must be filled out, submitted with the required documents, and the prescribed fees must be paid.
- Review and Approval: The application and submitted documents will be reviewed by the competent authority. Additional amendments or clarifications may be requested, and upon approval the commercial register will be issued.
- Receiving the commercial register: After approval, you will receive the official commercial register that proves the legality and legitimacy of the existence of the business entity. This document must be kept securely and used in subsequent business, banking and legal operations.
These are general steps that can help you understand the commercial registration process. However, you should directly consult your local authority or consult the specific laws and regulations of your country to obtain accurate and detailed information about registration procedures in the commercial registry.
Documents required to obtain a commercial register in Dubai?
The documents required to obtain a commercial register vary from one country to another and may also differ depending on the type of company and commercial activity. However, here is a list of common documents that may be required:
- Registration application form: The registration application form submitted by the competent authority must be completed. Personal information, company information and details of the intended business activity must be provided.
- Copy of the company’s legal document: A copy of the company’s legal document, such as the articles of incorporation, charter, or partnership agreement, must be submitted. This document contains information about the company structure and the responsibilities of shareholders or partners.
- Personal Data: A copy of the passport or ID card must be provided to the owner or legal officer of the company. It may also require submitting recent personal photos.
- Company address: Proof of the company’s address must be provided, such as a lease or utility bill bearing the company’s address. Some may require additional evidence such as permission from the owner to use the address for business purposes.
- Tax registration certificate: A tax registration certificate or tax number may be required as part of the procedures for obtaining a commercial register.
- Registered Capital: The registered capital of the company must be determined. This may require submitting a bank document or financial proof showing the company’s ability to finance its activities.
- Any additional documents: There may be additional documents required depending on local requirements, company type and business activity. For example, you may need special permits for businesses in specific sectors such as health or food services.
Registration costs in the commercial registry in Dubai
The costs of registering in the commercial registry vary from one country to another and depend on the legal system and legislation in force in each country. However, they can include the following costs:
- Registration fees: Registration fees are the basic cost of registering a company in the commercial registry. This fee may be determined based on several factors, such as the type of company, size of capital, and business activity.
- Verification and processing fees: Costs may include verification of documents and documents submitted for registration and their processing by the responsible body at the commercial registry. Additional fees may apply for these services.
- Electronic Services Fees: If there is an electronic registration system, additional fees may be charged for the electronic services provided for submitting and processing online registration requests.
- Fees for legal advisors or accountants: People and companies may consult a lawyer or accountant to assist with the registration process. These services may include additional costs.
- Translation fees: If the documents submitted for registration are in a language not used in the country, you may need to translate them into the required language. Additional fees may apply for translation services.
- Annual renewal fees: In some countries, the commercial registry may require an annual fee to maintain the validity of the registration and update the data.
To conclude this comprehensive article, we explored the differences between a trade license and a commercial registry in collaboration with Itqan. By understanding these differences and the basic details of each, it becomes easier for entrepreneurs and commercial companies to make the right decisions and understand the legal needs of their businesses in the UAE.
Our cooperation with Itqan Company has contributed to providing accurate and comprehensive information on these important issues, enabling individuals and companies to make informed and successful business decisions.
We hope that this article has provided you with a clear and useful understanding of the difference between a commercial license and a commercial register, and how to benefit from this knowledge in business development and achieving success in the UAE market.