Starting a business is may be difficult and running a successful business is even more challenging. However, setting up your business in a conducive environment could alleviate some of the challenges. For instance, imagine how easier things could’ve been if there were minimal taxation, robust infrastructure, and a growing market accessible to your business. You can avail these perks and more by getting a business licence in the UAE. There are various types of business licences in the UAE that you can get based on your business activity. In this article, we’ll discuss: - The types of business licences in the UAE - Eligibility for obtaining business licence in the UAE - Benefits of business licence in the UAE - Process of obtaining a business licence in the UAE
UAE offers multiple types of business licences. The type of business licence in the UAE also depends on whether you are seeking one in a freezone or mainland UAE. Here’s a list of business licences available to you based on the region.
1. Commercial Licence: A commercial licence in the UAE is essential for businesses that wish to engage in trading activities, including buying, selling, and exporting goods and services. This licence allows businesses to operate both locally and internationally, making it an excellent option for those looking to engage in global and domestic markets. With a commercial business licence in the UAE, you can participate in a wide range of trading operations available for individuals or companies within and outside the UAE. 2. Industrial Licence: An industrial business licence in the UAE is required for companies involved in manufacturing or processing, which includes activities like assembly and packaging using raw materials from both local and international sources. The industrial licence plays a vital role in overseeing and regulating industrial activities and it is essential for setting up any manufacturing or industrial operations in the region. 3. Individual/Professional Licence: A professional business licence in UAE authorises you to professionally practise and deliver services in your field of expertise. This licence is particularly helpful for individuals with a high degree of expertise in a certain profession but are looking for better opportunities to cater their services. 4. Educational Licence: If you are an educator or want to open an educational institution then you should go for an educational licence. Those who are looking to start an education-related consultancy can also go for this licence type. 5. E-commerce Licence With online retail experiencing great success across the globe, it’s a lucrative option to start an E-commerce business. You can get an E-commerce business licence in the UAE to trade goods and services via electronic means 6. Media Licence There is also an option to get a media business licence in the UAE if you want to start a business involved in media-related business activities. Getting this licence will not only make sure you adhere to all the legal complaints but also adds credibility to your business and operations. Apart from the above-mentioned business licences in the UAE, emirates like Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) offer more specific options for business licences in the UAE. These range from general business licences in the UAE like commercial, industrial, and professional to nuanced business licences in the UAE like general, trading, and a freelance permit. In addition to that, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) also offers dual business licences by which you can combine commercial and professional licences in one licence allowing you to operate different business activities under one business licence in the UAE.
There are certain specific types of business licences in the UAE which are available only for mainland operations.
Before applying for a business licence in the UAE you need to: 1. Decide the type of business activity that you wish to carry out in the UAE as that will shape the type of UAE business licence that you will need to apply for. 2. Then pick the type of structure you wish to incorporate—options include limited liability company, sole proprietorship, partnership and holding company. 3. Choose a business name for your entity- when selecting a name for your business make sure that you are complying with the rules and regulations of the UAE Government and avoid using a name that is rude, hurtful or blasphemous or one that is similar to well-known establishments. 4. Select a location where you wish to set up your business. Trade zones like RAKEZ provide various types of business licences in the UAE along with the option of opening and operating your business in its free zones. These even provide 100% ownership of fixed assets, up to 100% foreign ownership and repatriation of up to 100% of profits. After that the process of obtaining a business licence in UAE is simple: 1. Submit your application along with the documents as may be specified by the relevant authorities of a particular emirate or trade zone. 2. After gaining initial approval from the necessary authorities, pay the licensing fee to officially receive your business licence in the UAE.
Starting your business in the UAE comes with a number of benefits, which includes but are not limited to: ● 100% ownership of business in free zones like RAKEZ ● Unmatched tax benefits with minimal tax burden for corporate entities ● 100% ownership of fixed assets in free zones like RAKEZ ● Strong UAE Government backed banking system ● Up to 100% repatriation of profits in free zones like RAKEZ ● Advanced technology hub with ever-expanding modern technology ● Robust infrastructure ● Diverse and skilled workforce ● Ease of doing business ● Strategic location allowing easy access to international markets ● Low inflation rates ● Easy establishment of business in trade zones like RAKEZ ● Quick residence visa processing upon opening a business in the UAE ● Enhanced lifestyle coupled with safe and secure environment ● Access to world-class healthcare and education system
If you're thinking of starting a business soon, then UAE is the perfect place for you. With trade zones like RAKEZ offering seamless services for setting up businesses and obtaining licences, complete with unparalleled benefits, why look anywhere else? Check out the business licences offered by RAKEZ.
1. What are the types of business licences in the UAE? A: The UAE offers several types of business licences, primarily including commercial, industrial, professional, tourism, craftsman, and agricultural licences. Each type of licence caters to different business activities ranging from trading and manufacturing to professional services and tourism. 2. What is the eligibility criteria for obtaining a business licence in the UAE? A: To be eligible for a business licence in the UAE, you must decide on the type of business activity, choose a business structure (like LLC, sole proprietorship, or partnership), select a compliant business name, and pick a location for your business. Compliance with specific rules and regulations set by the UAE government is also required. 3. What are the benefits of obtaining a business licence in the UAE? A: Benefits of obtaining a business licence in the UAE include 100% business ownership in free zones, minimal tax burdens, 100% repatriation of profits, access to a robust banking system, a diverse and skilled workforce, and strategic location for international market access. Additional benefits include robust infrastructure, low inflation rates, and a safe and secure environment. 4. What is the process of obtaining a business licence in the UAE? A: The process involves submitting an application with the required documents to the relevant authorities, gaining initial approval, and then paying the licensing fee. In trade zones like RAKEZ, the process is streamlined to include package customization, document submission, and receiving the business licence within days. 5. Why should one consider setting up a business in a UAE free zone like RAKEZ? A: Setting up a business in a UAE free zone like RAKEZ offers numerous advantages, such as 100% foreign ownership, full repatriation of profits, ownership of fixed assets, and quick residence visa processing. These zones also provide a hassle-free environment with minimal regulatory burdens, making them ideal for foreign entrepreneurs and investors.
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