Get Your Abu Dhabi Commercial License
- 15-Day Turnaround
- Direct Government Liaison for hassle-free approvals
- Personalized Advisor single point of contact
- Transparent, All-Inclusive Fees – Clear breakdown of ADDED government charges
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What is Abu Dhabi Commercial License
A Commercial License in Abu Dhabi authorizes trading activities across sectors like real estate, transport, contracting and public commerce. It’s issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and is valid for one year. Working with a business setup specialist ensures you meet every requirement and save time.
Key Features
Fast-Track Licensing Options
Secure a Commercial License in just 14 working days across five dedicated free zones. From document prep to final handover, our all-inclusive service ensures you’re up and running faster.
Growth-Focused Regulations
With 2,200+ approved activities, 0 % personal income tax, and full profit repatriation, Abu Dhabi’s regulatory framework is built to help your business thrive. No hidden levies, no limits on foreign ownership just clear, consistent rules that scale as you grow.
Robust Logistics Network
Tap into a logistics powerhouse: seven major seaports, four international airports and a 1,100 km highway network handling nearly 92 million tonnes of cargo each year.
Global Market Access
Abu Dhabi’s strategic location lets you trade with over 190 countries within an eight-hour flight radius
How to Get Abu Dhabi Commercial License
Registration
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Free Consultation: We discuss your budget, target activities and preferred jurisdiction in a 30-minute call.
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Trade Name & Structure: Reserve your unique trade name with ADDED and select the optimal legal form (LLC, sole proprietor, branch).
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Initial Approval: File your application for preliminary sign-off, so you know exactly which documents and fees are required.
Submission
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Document Prep: We collect and format passports, MOA (if any), tenancy contracts (unless Instant License) and bank letters.
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Authority Filings: Submit your full package to ADDED (and relevant free-zone bodies), track approvals in real time and handle any queries.
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Transparent Billing: Provide a detailed fee schedule before payment—no hidden charges.
Handover
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License & Package Delivery: Meet your dedicated advisor to receive your printed Commercial License, shareholder certificates and Ejari.
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Compliance Briefing: Quick walkthrough of renewal dates, amendment procedures and visa quotas.
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Ongoing Support: Access our post-setup hotline for renewals, activity additions or any follow-up.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for your free consultation and take the first step toward building your business with confidence.
How CIG Can Help You
With 17 years of expertise in cost-effective business formation, CIG manages every requirement end-to-end to deliver on time. You get seamless setup and exceptional value at every step.
Authorized Partner
As an official channel partner, CIG enjoys high customer retention and widespread appreciation. Our strong industry relationships ensure smooth approvals and a hassle-free experience.
Fast License & No Hidden Fee
Enjoy fast licensing, transparent pricing and complete peace of mind for your Abu Dhabi Commercial License.
Ready to Get Your Professional Trade License Abu Dhabi?
Don’t wait weeks launch your business. Contact Capital International Group now for a free, no-obligation consultation and let our experts handle everything:
⭐ Client Feedback
Real success stories. See why entrepreneurs across the world choose us to start their UAE business with confidence.
Additional License Types in Abu Dhabi
Industrial License
- Activity Selection & Name Reservation: Choose your specific industrial activity (e.g. food processing, electronics assembly) and reserve a unique trade name via ADDED’s eServices on TAMM.
- Capital & Initial Approval Application: Submit a letter stating your intended start date for the industrial activity along with evidence of minimum capital of AED 250,000 to the Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology (MOIAT) and 365proservices.
- Safety & Environmental Approvals: Obtain Environmental Impact Assessment clearance from the Environment Agency—Abu Dhabi and Civil Defence inspection clearance.
- Site Inspection & License Issuance: After MOIAT and ADDED inspect your facility, collect your Industrial Production License and review your ongoing inspection schedule.
Professional License
- Qualification Verification: Submit certified copies of your diplomas, professional certificates and, where applicable, accreditation from bodies like the Department of Health (for healthcare professions).
- Local Service Agent / NOC: If you have no Emirati partner, arrange a local service agent. Foreign partners must also provide a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current sponsor.
- Application via TAMM/ADDED Portal: File your application on the TAMM platform or directly through ADDED, upload all documents and pay the professional license fees.
- License Collection: Once approved, download or collect your Professional License from TAMM and receive guidance on compliance, renewals and visa quotas.
Tourism License
- Category Selection & Initial Classification: Pick your tourism segment (hotel, tour operator, travel agent, restaurant) and submit your initial application on DCT Abu Dhabi’s online Licensing & Classifications portal.
- Technical Pre-Approval & Venue Approvals: Obtain technical pre-approval from DCT; provide tenancy contracts and—for F&B—food safety clearance. Secure Civil Defence and Environment Health & Safety (Salamatek) approvals as needed.
- Fee Payment: Pay the annual tourism license fee (capped at AED 1,000 per year) via the DCT e‑services system.
- Final Inspection & Issuance: After DCT’s site inspection and classification, collect your Tourism License and review brand, safety and classification guidelines.
- Post-Setup Support: We assist with renewals, event permits and classification upgrades under Tourism Strategy 2030.
Frequently Asked Questions: Commercial License Abu Dhabi
What activities does a Commercial License cover?
A Commercial License permits trading activities such as import, export, retail, wholesale and distribution of goods. It’s issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).
How much does it cost to obtain a Commercial License?
Fees typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 30,000, depending on your chosen activity, legal structure and location. Free-zone options may have different fee structures.
Do I need a physical office to apply?
For a standard mainland Commercial License, you must provide a tenancy contract for office space. However, ADDED’s Instant License option lets you start without physical premises for the first year.
Can I own 100 % of my Commercial License?
Yes. Under current UAE regulations, foreign investors can hold 100 % equity in a mainland Commercial License without the need for a local partner.