Some investors know the steps to open a commercial register in Dubai and the methods of application because Dubai is one of the most attractive cities for investors and businessmen around the world, thanks to its advanced business environment and excellent infrastructure. If you are thinking of starting your own business in this vibrant city, opening a commercial register is the first essential step. A commercial register is a legal document that allows you to practice commercial activities officially, and includes many procedures and requirements. In this article, we will discuss the steps to open a commercial register in Dubai in detail, starting from choosing the appropriate trade name, to submitting the application to the relevant authorities, and reaching the receipt of the commercial register. We will also review the different methods of application, whether online or through service offices, to help you achieve your dream of establishing a successful business in Dubai.

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ToggleSteps to open a commercial register in Dubai and methods of application
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires following specific steps to ensure compliance with local laws. Here are the basic steps and methods of application:
Determine the business activity: Determine the type of activity you want to practice, as this varies according to the laws and regulations in Dubai.
Choose a trade name: Choose a trade name that complies with the standards set by the Department of Economy in Dubai. The name must be unique and not previously used.
Getting approvals: You may need to obtain prior approvals from some government agencies, especially if the business activity requires special licenses (such as health or educational activities).
Submitting a commercial registration application
Online: Use the “eServices” platform of the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai. Fill out the required form and attach the necessary documents.
Visiting service centers: You can visit approved service centers, such as “Tayseer” or “Economic Departments” centers, to submit your application directly.
Paying fees: After submitting the application, you will need to pay the prescribed fees to obtain the commercial registration, which vary depending on the type of activity and size of the company.
Receiving the commercial registration: After your application is processed, you will receive the commercial registration. This can be done via email or by visiting the center where you submitted the application.
Registering other licenses: After obtaining the commercial registration, you may need to register additional licenses depending on the type of activity, such as a professional or industrial license.
Required documents: A copy of the owner or partners’ passport. A personal photo. The commercial registration application form. Any additional approvals if required.
By following these steps and ensuring that all requirements are met, you can easily open a commercial register in Dubai and start your business successfully.
Documents required to open a commercial register in Dubai
To issue a commercial register or trade license in Dubai, you need to submit a set of required documents. Here is a list of the basic documents:
Passport copy: The copy must be valid for the owner or partners in the company.
Personal photo: A recent personal photo must be submitted for each owner or partner.
Commercial registration application form: You can obtain this form from the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai or from authorized service centers.
Choosing a trade name: A list of suggested names for the company must be submitted, while adhering to the standards set by the Department of Economy.
Approval of the relevant authorities: If your business activity requires special licenses, you will need to submit approvals from the relevant authorities (such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, etc.).
Memorandum of Association (if applicable): In the event of a partnership, the memorandum of association must be submitted, which shows the details of the partners and the percentage of each.
Proof of business address: You may need to submit a document proving the address of the company’s headquarters, such as a lease or ownership contract.
Business plan (optional): A business plan can be useful in some cases, especially when applying for financing or support.
Notes: It is preferable to ensure that all documents are translated into Arabic if they are in English, and are certified by the relevant authorities.
The required documents may vary depending on the type of business activity, so it is important to check the specific requirements for your activity before applying. By following these steps and submitting the required documents, you can speed up the process of opening a commercial register in Dubai.
Dubai Commercial Register
The Dubai Commercial Register is a legal document approved by the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, which allows individuals and companies to officially practice commercial activities. The commercial register is one of the essential elements for establishing any business in Dubai, as it defines the identity of the business and the type of activity practiced. The register provides a range of benefits, including protecting intellectual property rights, and enhancing credibility with customers and suppliers. It also facilitates the process of applying for other commercial licenses, and is a prerequisite for compliance with legal requirements. The register includes details such as the trade name, type of activity, and company address, making it an essential part of any business plan seeking to succeed in the diverse and active Dubai market.
Requirements for Opening a Commercial Register in Dubai
To open a commercial register to establish a company in Dubai, a set of conditions and requirements must be adhered to. Here are the most important of these conditions:
Determine the business activity: The business activity you wish to practice must be specific and clear, and in line with local laws and regulations.
Choose a trade name: The trade name must be unique and not previously used. It must comply with local laws, and reflect the nature of the activity.
Approvals of the relevant authorities: Some activities require approvals from certain government agencies before submitting the application, such as health or educational activities.
Nationality: The applicant must be of the nationality that allows him to open a commercial register in Dubai. Foreigners are allowed to establish their companies completely in free zones, while they may need a local partner in other areas.
Minimum capital: The minimum capital required varies depending on the type of activity, so you should check the specific requirements.
Submit the necessary documents: A set of required documents must be submitted, such as a passport, personal photos, and the articles of association (if applicable).
Comply with local laws: All business activities and practices must be in line with local laws and regulations.
Business address: You must have an official business address, such as a lease or ownership document.
Tax Registration: You must ensure that you are registered for VAT purposes if your business activities exceed the minimum allowable profit threshold. Following these requirements, you can start the process of opening a commercial register in Dubai and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
The specific period for opening a commercial register in Dubai
Opening a commercial register in Dubai can take a varying period of time depending on several factors, but in general, the specific period can be summarized as follows:
Setup procedures: Determining the business activity and choosing a trade name may take from one day to a week, depending on the availability of the name and the necessary approvals.
Submission and review: After submitting the application, the review process can take from two days to a week. If all documents are in order and according to the requirements, the commercial register will be issued quickly.
Obtaining approvals: If your business requires additional approvals from other authorities, this period may increase. These approvals can take from one week to several weeks, depending on the type of activity.
In conclusion, opening a commercial register in Dubai is an essential step towards achieving success in the business world. Dubai provides an advanced and supportive business environment, making it an ideal destination for investors and businessmen from all over the world. By adhering to the necessary steps and conditions, you can easily establish your own business and start your business career. Remember that the commercial register is not just a legal document, but rather a gateway to opportunities and expansion in a competitive market. Thanks to the services available from the competent authorities, you can speed up the application process and ensure compliance with all requirements. So, get ready to start your business journey in Dubai and take advantage of the many benefits this dynamic city has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Opening a Commercial Register in Dubai
What is a commercial register?
A commercial register is a legal document approved by the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, which allows individuals and companies to conduct commercial activities officially.
What are the documents required to open a commercial register?
The documents include: a copy of the passport, a personal photo, a commercial register application form, choosing a trade name, and approvals from the relevant authorities if the activity requires it.
How long does it take to open a commercial register in Dubai?
If all the documents are ready, the process of opening a commercial register can take from 5 to 10 working days.