How Much Does A DED License Cost? Key Factors to Consider

Looking to share your expertise globally without being tied down by the Dubai market? The
DED license makes it possible! With this license, you can tap into the vast opportunities Dubai
offers, all thanks to the Dubai Department of Economic Development.

This article breaks down the factors and components that affect the DED license cost in Dubai.

DED License: What Is It Actually?

The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai, (UAE), issues licenses, which are
legal permits that let you carry out the commercial operations listed in the license. Depending on
your company’s requirements, you can apply for a DED professional license or a commercial
license. To accommodate a range of business types, DED provides a number of licenses.

Depending on your unique activities, organizational structure, and operational requirements, you
can choose the best one. You must reserve a distinctive trade name for your business before
submitting an application for a DED Trader License. The reservation is valid for 30 days and
costs 200 AED. It is crucial that the name you choose for your business both fits with the brand
of the organization and adheres to DED regulations.

Why You Need a DED License in Dubai

If you’re starting a business in Dubai Mainland, getting a DED license is essential. Here’s why

• Legal Operation: It allows your business to run legally in Dubai.
• Business Activities: It lets you engage in commercial, industrial, or professional activities
• based on your license type.
• Government Contracts: It facilitates your access to government tenders and contracts.
• Compliance: It ensures you follow Dubai’s business regulations and laws.
• Credibility: It increases the trust that clients, partners, and suppliers have in your
• company.
• Government Benefits: You can avail yourself of numerous advantages and amenities
• provided by the government of Dubai.
• Dispute Resolution: It provides a way to handle business disputes and legal issues.
• Growth Support: It aids in establishing an atmosphere that is conducive to investment and
• business expansion.

How to Get a DED License?

To get a DED license in the UAE, you need

• A valid residence visa or permit.
• To be at least 18 years old.

Here’s a simple process to follow

• Research potential partners and read reviews to ensure they are trustworthy.
• Gather and submit the necessary documents, which can vary based on your type of business.

Factors Influencing The DED License Cost

The cost of a DED license can vary. Key factors include

License Type:

• Commercial: For businesses with a physical presence in Dubai.
• Professional: For freelancers and service providers.
• Industrial: For manufacturing and industrial activities.
• Business Activity: Certain activities or specialized permits can increase fees.
• Office Location: Costs may differ between Free zones and the mainland.
• Visa Requirements: Additional visas for employees can add to the cost.
• Company Structure: Your business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) affects the
• fee.
  

How Much Does A DED Dubai License Cost?

It’s important to know the DED trade license cost in Dubai in order to avoid surprises. Fees
often vary from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, depending on the type of item you intend to sell.
The UAE government may require special permissions for some firms.

The cost of a DED license in Dubai includes several components:

Administrative Fees

These cover the processing charges DED applies for issuing your license, including:

• Document Attestation: Certain documents may need to be attested, which comes with a
• fee.
• Application Processing: DED charges for handling your license application.
• Other Administrative Services: Additional fees might apply for services like data entry or
• verification.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce Membership Fee

Most businesses need to join the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, which has its own fee.
Membership offers benefits like:

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other businesses and professionals.
• Market Research and Information: Access resources and data to aid your business decisions.
• Advocacy and Support: The Chamber provides support and representation for its members.

DED License Fee

This is the core fee for issuing the license and varies based on:

License Type: DED offers different licenses, each with its own fee:

1. Commercial License: For businesses with a physical presence and broader
   activities, typically more expensive.
2. Professional License: For freelancers and consultants, usually cheaper.
3. Industrial License: For manufacturing or industrial businesses, costs can vary
   based on factors like factory size and environmental impact assessments.

• Company Legal Structure: This affects the fee as well:
• Sole Proprietorship: Lower base fee but limited liability protection.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Higher base fee but better liability protection.
• Branch of a Foreign Company: May involve extra registration processes and potentially higher fees.

Business Activity Fee

Fees are also tied to the type of business activity, which can affect your overall costs:

• High-Demand Activities: Some activities may have higher fees due to demand. Research these fees in advance for accurate budgeting.
• Specialized Permits: If your business needs special permits, additional fees might apply.

Optional Fees

These are not required but offer additional services you might find useful during the application
process.

• Trade Name Reservation: To secure your business name.
• Visa Processing Assistance: For help with employee visas.
• legal Support: For professional legal advice during the application process.

DED E-Trader License in Dubai

Looking to run a business from home and use social media to reach your customers? The Dubai
e-trader license is perfect for you. This license lets you operate an online business without
needing a physical office.

To get the e-trader license, you’ll need to submit documents like proof of address, age, and
residency to the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). With this license, you can
promote and manage a business right from your home.

The process to register is simple and quick. Just visit the DED Trader website, create an account,
provide your social media details, and pay DED e trader license cost of 1,070. Remember,
you’ll need to renew your license every year.

What Does DED License Renewal Cost?

Depending on your business setup and size, among other things, the cost of renewing your DED
license may change. Generally speaking, the price range is AED 8,000 to AED 15,000.

What Happens If You Don’t Have a DED License?

Establishing and running a business in the UAE might be difficult without a DED license. It will
be impossible for you to trade or work in some industries. There will also be limitations on the
kinds of businesses you can run and the amount of people you can hire, in addition to the lack of
ownership rights.

How Long Does the Renewal Process Take?

The renewal process involves several steps:

1. Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs Approval: This usually takes about a week.
2. Ministry of Economy Approval: Expect this to take around two weeks.
3. Ministry of Health and Prevention Approval: This step may take about three weeks.

Finally, the DED will process your license renewal, which can take a few weeks. Remember,
you can renew your DED license online after one year, so keep track of your renewal deadline.

Want to Start A Business in Dubai?

At Emifast, we’ve got you covered from start to finish. Whether it’s setting up your company,
handling accounting, or moving your business to a tax-friendly spot like Dubai, we’re here to
help. We make sure your business smoothly transitions from its current location and offer full
support, including opening bank accounts and managing day-to-day bookkeeping.