DED Licensing Process
Department of Economic Development (DED)
The primary licensing authority for mainland companies in each emirate. Each emirate has its own DED (DED Abu Dhabi, DED Dubai/Dubai Economy, DED Sharjah, etc.).
Business Activities
1. Commercial Activities: Trading (general, specific), retail and wholesale, import/export, real estate brokerage.
2. Professional Activities: Consulting, professional services, artisan services, craftsmanship.
3. Industrial Activities: Manufacturing, processing, assembly, packaging.
4. Agricultural Activities: Farming, livestock, fishing.
Licensing Steps
Step 1: Reserve Trade Name - Choose a name following DED naming rules. Cannot include restricted words, must not conflict with existing trademarks, submit name reservation application.
Step 2: Obtain Initial Approval - Submit initial application to DED. DED reviews business activity and ownership. Initial approval valid for 6 months. Required before proceeding with MOA.
Step 3: Get External Approvals (if required) - Health activities: Ministry of Health. Educational: Ministry of Education. Financial: Central Bank or SCA. Food and beverage: Municipality. Construction: Municipality and Civil Defense.
Step 4: Draft and Notarize MOA - Draft Memorandum of Association. Have it notarized at a UAE notary public. For single-person LLC, draft and notarize the formation document.
Step 5: Lease Office Space - Obtain Ejari (Dubai) or equivalent tenancy contract. Office must be suitable for the licensed activity. Some activities require specific office types.
Step 6: Submit License Application - Submit all documents to DED. Pay licensing fees. Receive trade license.
Trade Name Rules
Must be in Arabic and optionally English. Cannot include names of countries or governments, religious or political terms. Cannot be misleading. Must reflect the business activity. Cannot conflict with registered trademarks.
License Renewal
Annual renewal required. Renewal before expiry to avoid fines. Must maintain office lease. Must comply with all regulatory requirements. Corporate Tax and VAT registration must be current.