Dubai Commercial Register, Establishing a commercial register in Dubai is a vital step for any individual or company looking to start or expand in one of the most dynamic and active markets in the world. As a global business hub, Dubai offers a sophisticated business environment that combines modern infrastructure with vast economic opportunities, making it a preferred destination for investors and entrepreneurs. To obtain a commercial register in Dubai, it requires a thorough understanding of the procedures and legal requirements, as this includes a set of essential steps that must be followed to ensure compliance and proper registration.
Partnering with a specialized company like Itqan can greatly facilitate this process. Itqan provides comprehensive consulting and support services to manage all aspects of business registration, from choosing the type of business activity and submitting the necessary documents to dealing with the relevant government agencies. With its extensive experience in this field, Itqan helps companies and investors overcome bureaucratic obstacles, saving them time and increasing the efficiency of the process.
By working with Itqan, investors can focus on developing their business strategies instead of getting bogged down in complex administrative details. Itqan also provides support in preparing the necessary legal documents, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and processing license applications, ensuring that all legal requirements are met seamlessly. This partnership contributes to ensuring a successful business registration in Dubai, allowing companies to benefit from the city’s excellent business environment and successfully achieve their business goals.

Dubai Commercial Register
Basic steps to obtain a commercial register in Dubai
Establishing a commercial register in Dubai requires obtaining a commercial register, which is the basic step that allows you to operate legally within the city. Dubai, with its encouraging business environment and advanced facilities, is an ideal destination for businesses. However, the process of obtaining a commercial register can be complex, so it is essential to understand the basic steps to avoid delays and ensure a successful registration. Here are the basic steps to obtain a commercial register in Dubai:
- Determine the type of business activity: Before starting the registration process, you must determine the type of business activity you wish to practice. This includes determining whether you will establish a commercial, industrial, service, or any other type of activity. Determining the activity accurately helps in choosing the correct classification for the commercial register.
- Choosing a trade name: After determining the business activity, a trade name must be chosen that complies with local laws. Ensure that the name is unique and does not conflict with any previously registered trade names. The proposed trade name must be submitted to the Department of Economic Development for approval.
- Prepare the required documents: Gather and prepare all the necessary documents such as passports of the partners, articles of association, proof of address, business plan, and lease agreement. Ensuring that the documents are correct and complete will help speed up the registration process.
- Submitting the application to the Department of Economic Development: Submit the registration application along with all the required documents to the Department of Economic Development in Dubai. You can submit the application electronically or in person, depending on the options available.
- Receiving the trade license: After reviewing and approving the application, you will receive the trade license from the Department of Economic Development. This license allows you to legally practice business in Dubai.
- Registering the company with other authorities: Depending on the type of business activity, you may also need to register the company with other authorities such as the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, or obtain additional licenses if your activity requires it.
- Opening a business bank account: After obtaining the commercial registration, a business bank account must be opened in the name of the company. This account will help in managing money and conducting financial transactions in an organized manner.
By following these basic steps, you can ensure that your business registration in Dubai is organized and efficient, allowing you to take advantage of the city’s advanced business environment and successfully achieve your business goals.

Documents required to obtain a commercial register
Documents required to obtain a commercial register
Obtaining a commercial registration in Dubai is an essential step to legalize your business and start operations officially. A commercial registration is a legal permit that allows you to conduct business activities in Dubai, and reflects your compliance with local legal standards and requirements. To ensure the success of the registration process and avoid delays, it is essential to prepare all the required documents accurately. Below is a list of the basic documents you need to obtain a commercial registration in Dubai:
- Passports: Copies of passports of all partners or shareholders of the company must be provided. Ensure that the passports are valid and have sufficient validity period.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): If one of the partners is employed by another entity, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) must be submitted from the current employer, allowing him to participate in the establishment of the company.
- Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association: Preparing the Articles of Association and Memorandum of Association document that explains the legal structure of the company, its purposes, and the rights and duties of the partners.
- Business Plan: Provide a detailed business plan that outlines the company’s goals, type of business, and future strategy. This document helps in assessing the feasibility of the project.
- Proof of Address: Provide documents that prove your company’s headquarters address, such as a recent utility bill or office lease.
- Lease Contract: Provide a lease contract for an office or commercial space in Dubai, or a preliminary contract proving the intention to lease the space.
- Security Approval: In some cases, it may be necessary to provide security approval from the relevant authorities in the UAE based on the nationality of the partners and the type of business activity.
- Power of Attorney: If one of the partners is unable to be present in person, a power of attorney must be submitted authorizing another person to carry out the procedures on his or her behalf.
- Additional Certificates: Depending on the type of business, additional certificates or special licenses from relevant government agencies may be required.
Preparing these documents accurately and in compliance with legal requirements will help speed up the process of obtaining a commercial registration, allowing you to start your business in Dubai smoothly and efficiently.
Learn about Dubai Commercial Register
Obtaining a commercial registration in Dubai is a crucial step for any investor or entrepreneur looking to enter a market full of opportunities and challenges. Dubai, with its strategic location and advanced infrastructure, offers a distinct business environment that supports growth and expansion. However, to successfully complete the business registration process, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the procedures and legal requirements, and this is where working with a specialized company like Itqan comes in.
Itqan provides essential support to investors by facilitating the commercial registration process in Dubai. With its expertise and in-depth knowledge of legal and administrative procedures, Itqan helps companies handle all registration requirements efficiently and quickly. Its services include providing advice on choosing the most appropriate type of business activity, preparing the required legal documents, and processing the necessary applications for obtaining licenses. Itqan also provides support in interacting with the relevant government agencies, ensuring full compliance with all requirements.
In partnership with Itqan, investors can benefit from a seamless commercial registration process, saving time and effort to focus on their business strategies and business development. The support provided by Itqan helps overcome bureaucratic hurdles and achieve a successful commercial registration, opening new doors for businesses to grow and innovate in the diverse and thriving Dubai market.
In conclusion, working with Itqan is a strategic step to ensure that you start your business properly and efficiently in Dubai, contributing to success and expansion in a supportive and opportunity-filled business environment.
Frequently asked questions about Dubai commercial register
What is a commercial register?
A commercial register is a legal document issued to individuals or companies wishing to conduct business in Dubai. The commercial register proves that the business has been legally registered in accordance with local laws.
What are the basic steps to obtain a commercial register in Dubai?
The process of obtaining a commercial registration begins with determining the type of business activity, then submitting the registration application to the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), and submitting the required documents, including the business plan, articles of association, passports, and any additional documents requested by the authorities.
What documents are required to obtain a commercial register?
Required documents include passports of all partners or shareholders, articles of association, business plan, proof of address, and office lease. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of business.
Can foreigners establish a company in Dubai without a local partner?
Yes, foreigners can set up a company in Dubai with 100% ownership if they choose a free zone. However, if they wish to operate in the onshore areas, companies will need a local partner who owns 51% of the shares.
How long does it take to get a commercial registration in Dubai?
The process of obtaining a commercial registration in Dubai usually takes from several days to several weeks, depending on the speed of submitting the documents and completing all the necessary procedures.
What are the fees associated with obtaining a commercial register?
The fees for obtaining a commercial registration vary depending on the type of business and the size of the company. The fees usually include registration costs, licenses, and other additional costs such as rent and insurance.
Does the commercial register need to be renewed?
Yes, the commercial registration must be renewed periodically as required by the Department of Economic Development. Renewal is usually annual and includes payment of renewal fees and updating information if necessary.