Obtaining a Commercial License in Dubai:

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  For foreign investors who want to set up businesses in Dubai, there are several steps they need to take before starting any business activity. Also, there are a few requirements that need to be met before submitting all the relevant documents with the company registry for company incorporation in Dubai.

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  Depending on the type of activities to be carried out, the company must also apply for one of the three special licenses published by the competent authorities in Dubai:

• Commercial license

• Professional license

• The industrial license

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What are the requirements to get a business license in Dubai?

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  To apply for a business license in Dubai, investors must meet certain requirements and follow a few steps. The first step will be to designate the main type of activity that the company will carry out.

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  The investor has to decide on the type of company to be registered in Dubai, as one can choose from several types of companies. In order to obtain the Dubai Business License, the business must be registered with the Companies Registry. After this step, the documents to be submitted to the Ministry of Economic Development in Dubai and the Federal Ministry of Economy of the United Arab Emirates for the business license are:

• An application form where the name of the company will be mentioned in English and Arabic.

• The initial lease contract for the company's head office.

• The permit issued by the Dubai Municipality Building Department and the compensation for use of the office space as a business address for the company.

• Proof of payment of the fee for the issuance of the business license.

  Based on these documents, the Ministry of Economic Development will issue the business license for the business in Dubai.

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Business License Renewal in Dubai

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  A Dubai business license has one year validity from the date it was issued and it can be renewed. A renewed business license in Dubai is valid for four years. For Dubai business license renewal application, the following documents must be submitted:

• A copy or the original of the commercial license.

• A copy of the office rental contract.

• The approval of the competent authorities, if necessary.

• Details of employee accommodation for companies with a foreign shareholder.

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