Dubai’s popularity among businessmen and investors, both local and international, led to the introduction of an instant license by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. Through the instant license, an entrepreneur can acquire a business license in just a few minutes. Application for it can be made either through DED’s online portal or by visiting one of their service centres.
Generally, getting a trade license for your business in Dubai could take anywhere between a few days to a month. This is because company incorporation requires submitting several documents and getting necessary approvals from relevant government-approved agencies before applying for a trade license. But with the Dubai instant trade license, this process has been reduced to a mere 5 minutes.
Getting the license is a one-step process. It can be applied for without the submission of either the Memorandum of Association (MOA) or an office lease contract for the first twelve months. It also does not require trade name registration during the first year. These documents are only required in the second year, when renewing the commercial or professional license.
If you have a solid business plan in place and are ready to start your business in Dubai mainland, instant license will get you started immediately. Not only is it issued within 5-10 minutes and on the same day as applied for, but it also allows you to start conducting business as soon as the license is issued. In other words, you’re set to begin your entrepreneurial journey in Dubai in under a day.
Depending on the channel through which you apply for the instant trade license in Dubai, the documents required could vary. The Dubai Economy has enlisted the following channels through which entrepreneurs can apply for an instant license:
- DED e-services platform: https://eservices.dubaided.gov.ae
- DED service centres
- Happiness Lounges
- Smart Lounge (open 24/7)
In-Person Application
Applying through the service centres, Happiness Lounges, or Smart Lounge requires being physically present at the location. It is mandatory for at least one business partner, if not all, to be present at the location to submit the application.
The following documents are to be provided when applying through service centres:
- Passport copies of all partners and managers
- Passport copy and Emirates ID of the local sponsor
- Copy of residence visa of foreign partner
- NOC from current sponsor for partner holding residence visa
- Copy of visit visa of foreign partner (those not residing in the UAE)
Online Application
Applying through DED’s e-Services platform is a one-step process that does not require any additional documents. It only requires the applicant to have a UAE Pass ID. The UAE Pass ID is the login credential that enables you to access DED’s online portal and apply for the instant license. To create a UAE Pass ID, you only need your original ID.
The online application process is a simple one. You follow a set of steps, fill in necessary details about your business, submit required documents, and make the payment. As soon as the payment is made, you will be issued the Instant License for your business.
Given the minimal requirements of the instant license, only trade activities that do not require any external approvals can be issued this license. Commercial and professional companies with the following business forms are eligible for an instant license:
- Limited Liability Company
- Sole Proprietorship
- One Person L.L.C.
- Civil Company
Instant license is a great option for investors seeking their next business venture in Dubai. It is hassle-free, involves less paperwork, is cost-effective, and above all, saves precious time. The option to apply for the license in-person or remotely, through the online platform, offers the businessperson much-needed flexibility, given their busy schedules.
