DEPT.OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (Abu Dhabi)
New Trade License Services
Establishment license
Establishment License is a fundamental requirement for businesses to legally operate in the UAE. It serves as an official authorization issued by the relevant licensing authority, confirming that a company is registered and approved to carry out its business activities. Obtaining an establishment license ensures that the business is recognized, regulated, and compliant with UAE laws.
Key elements of Establishment Licensing include:
Registering the business under the correct legal structure
Choosing permitted business activities as per UAE regulations
Submitting required documents such as passport copies, trade name reservation, and tenancy contract
Obtaining approvals from relevant government departments
Ensuring timely renewals to maintain legal status
Having a valid establishment license not only avoids legal issues but also builds credibility and trust with clients, suppliers, and government entities. With professional assistance, businesses can ensure smooth setup, proper documentation, and full compliance with UAE licensing regulations.
LLC license & soul Proprietorship
In the UAE, businesses can choose between different licensing structures depending on their goals and nature of activities. Two of the most common are the Limited Liability Company (LLC) License and the Sole Proprietorship License.
An LLC License is ideal for businesses with multiple shareholders. It allows between 2 to 50 partners and protects them by limiting liability to their shareholding capital. LLCs can engage in a wide range of commercial and industrial activities, offering flexibility and credibility for both local and international investors.
On the other hand, a Sole Proprietorship License is designed for individuals who want to independently own and operate a business under their personal name. It is best suited for professionals, freelancers, and consultants, giving them full ownership and control, while also making them personally liable for the business.
Key elements include:
LLC License – multiple shareholders, liability limited to shares, wide scope of activities, strong business credibility.
Sole Proprietorship – 100% ownership, full control by an individual, simple setup, suited for professionals and consultants.
Both structures require proper registration, trade name approval, and compliance with UAE licensing authorities.
By choosing the right license, businesses can align with their objectives, ensure legal compliance, and build a trusted presence in the UAE market.
Tajer Abu Dhabi
The Tajer Abu Dhabi License is a unique initiative introduced by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) to support entrepreneurs and small businesses. Unlike traditional licenses, Tajer allows Emiratis, GCC nationals, and certain expatriates to start a business without requiring a physical office space in the initial stages, making it cost-effective and flexible.
Key elements of the Tajer License include:
No requirement for a physical office or tenancy contract at the time of setup
Wide range of approved commercial and service activities
Easy online application and issuance through ADDED portal
Support for startups, freelancers, and home-based businesses
Option to upgrade later to a full trade license with office space
The Tajer Abu Dhabi License provides an affordable entry point for entrepreneurs to legally operate and grow their businesses in Abu Dhabi while benefiting from government support and simplified procedures.
Foreign license
A Foreign Company License allows international businesses to establish a legal presence in the UAE while maintaining their headquarters abroad. This license enables foreign companies to operate in the local market, either through a branch office or a representative office, depending on the scope of activities. It ensures that overseas investors can expand into the UAE while complying with the country’s regulations.
Key elements of a Foreign Company License include:
Ability to set up as a branch office (conducting commercial activities) or a representative office (for marketing and promotion only)
Requirement for approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Ministry of Economy
Business activities restricted to those permitted under UAE law
A local service agent (for representative offices) may be required
Mandatory registration and compliance with UAE commercial regulations
A Foreign Company License provides global businesses with a gateway to the UAE market, allowing them to build a regional presence, access local opportunities, and operate with full legal recognition.
Instant license
The Instant License is a fast-track business setup option introduced by the UAE’s Department of Economic Development (DED) to simplify company formation. It allows entrepreneurs to obtain a trade license within minutes, without the need for prior office space or lengthy documentation. This license is particularly useful for startups and investors who want to launch their business operations quickly and efficiently.
Key elements of an Instant License include:
Issuance of the trade license in as little as 5 minutes
No requirement for a physical office space for the first year
Flexibility to choose from a wide range of business activities
Simplified online application process via the DED portal
Option to upgrade later with office space and additional approvals
With its speed and convenience, the Instant License offers an ideal solution for entrepreneurs looking to establish their business presence in the UAE with minimal time and effort.
Other Works
License renewal
License Renewal is a mandatory process for all businesses in the UAE to maintain their legal status and continue operating without interruptions. Trade licenses are typically valid for one year and must be renewed with the relevant authority, such as the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authority. Timely renewal helps avoid fines, penalties, or suspension of business activities.
Key elements of License Renewal include:
Submission of required documents such as the trade license, tenancy contract (Ejari), and approvals (if applicable)
Settlement of all outstanding government fees and penalties
Verification of activity compliance with UAE regulations
Renewal through DED service centers, online portals, or free zone authorities
Annual updates to company records, partners, or activities if necessary
Keeping your license renewed on time ensures uninterrupted operations, protects your business reputation, and guarantees full compliance with UAE laws. Professional support can simplify the process and prevent costly delays.
Activity amendment
Activity Amendment is the process of updating or modifying the business activities listed on a trade license in the UAE. Companies often require this service when they wish to expand their operations, add new services, or remove activities that no longer align with their business goals. The amendment ensures that the trade license remains accurate, compliant, and reflective of the company’s current operations.
Key elements of Activity Amendment include:
Adding new activities permitted by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authority
Removing outdated or irrelevant activities from the license
Ensuring selected activities comply with UAE regulations and legal requirements
Submitting necessary documents such as the trade license, memorandum of association (if applicable), and approvals from relevant authorities
Updating the license through official government channels to reflect changes
With proper activity amendment, businesses can legally expand their scope, explore new opportunities, and stay fully aligned with UAE regulatory standards.
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Location change
Location Change is the process of updating a company’s registered office address on its trade license in the UAE. Businesses may need this service when moving to a new office, warehouse, or retail space. Updating the trade license ensures that the company’s records remain accurate and compliant with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone regulations.
Key elements of Location Change include:
Submission of the new tenancy contract (Ejari) or lease agreement
Obtaining necessary approvals from the relevant licensing authority
Amending the trade license to reflect the updated office or business premises
Ensuring the new location complies with zoning and activity requirements
Timely processing to avoid penalties or business disruptions
By completing a location change, companies can continue their operations seamlessly while maintaining compliance with UAE laws and ensuring official records are up to date.
Classification certificate
A Classification Certificate is an essential approval required for companies, especially those involved in contracting, construction, or government projects in the UAE. Issued by the relevant authorities, this certificate evaluates and ranks a company based on its technical expertise, financial capability, workforce, and past project experience. It is often mandatory for businesses that wish to participate in government tenders or large-scale projects.
Key elements of a Classification Certificate include:
Assessment of the company’s financial stability and audited statements
Verification of technical staff qualifications and expertise
Evaluation of completed projects and industry experience
Categorization of the company according to its size, capacity, and specialization
Mandatory requirement for contractors and consultants bidding on government projects
Obtaining a Classification Certificate enhances credibility, opens access to government tenders, and positions a company as a trusted and qualified service provider in the UAE market.
Sponsor amendment
Sponsor Amendment is the process of updating or changing the local sponsor or service agent associated with a company’s trade license in the UAE. This service is essential for businesses that need to revise their partnership agreements, switch sponsors, or restructure ownership to better align with their business goals. Completing a sponsor amendment ensures that the company remains legally compliant and officially recognized by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant free zone authority.
Key elements of Sponsor Amendment include:
Submitting a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the existing sponsor, if applicable
Drafting or updating the sponsorship agreement or memorandum of association
Obtaining approvals from DED or free zone authorities
Updating the trade license to reflect the new sponsor details
Ensuring compliance with UAE commercial and legal regulations
A Sponsor Amendment allows businesses to legally restructure their partnerships, maintain regulatory compliance, and continue operations smoothly without interruptions.