
Are you unsure about how to check trade license online? The procedure is very simple, whether you are checking the authenticity of a business or your license information. Verifying a trade license online ensures you are on the right path in a country like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where legal standing, compliance, and transparency are crucial.
In this blog, we will cover all you need to know about trade licenses in Dubai, including their types, advantages, online verification procedures, and post-verification actions.
What is a Trade License in Dubai, UAE?
A trade license in Dubai is a formal authorisation granted by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), which was earlier known as the Department of Economic Development (DED). With this license, entrepreneurs or companies get the legal right to carry out particular commercial operations in the UAE. It is a must for any operational business in Dubai.
Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai
Depending on the type of business, Dubai grants different kinds of trade licenses:
- Commercial License: It is required for businesses that are engaged in trading, retail, and import/export.
- Professional License: It is required for various services such as IT, design, consulting, and teaching.
- Industrial License: This trade license in Dubai is provided to businesses engaged in manufacturing, fabrication, and other industrial operations.
· Tourism License: This license is required for businesses that provide hospitality, travel, or tourism-related services.
Key Benefits of Having a Trade License in Dubai
- Legal Authorisation: Guarantees that the business conforms to the UAE law, protecting it from fines or legal issues.
- Access to Local and International Markets: Allows growth inside as well as outside of the UAE, which is advantageous for free zone businesses with international goals.
- Tax Advantages: Businesses take advantage of minimal corporate tax and zero personal income tax; business set up in UAE free zones provide complete tax exemptions.
- Corporate Bank Account Setup: Businesses can open a bank account and carry out all dealings; for this, a current trade license is a must.
- Eligibility for Residency Visas: Allows business owners and workers to sponsor family members and apply for the UAE residency visas.
- Flexibility in Business Activities: Entrepreneurs can select from thousands of authorised business activities; some licenses let you combine several activities into one group.
- Increased Credibility: Consumers, vendors, and governmental organisations regard the business as a respectable and reliable company.
- Physical Business Presence: Physical office space is necessary for many licenses and provides access to the UAE infrastructure and business hubs.
- Access to Government Contracts: Participation in the UAE government and corporate tenders is allowed with a mainland license UAE.
- Flexible Setup Options: Depending on the business’s objectives, choose between offshore, free zone, or mainland business setups.
How to Check a Trade License Online in Dubai
Step 1: Compile the Necessary Data
- Number of trade license in Dubai
- Name of the business (ideally in Arabic)
- Type of license (commercial, industrial, or professional)
Step 2: Go to the Official DED/DET Website.
- Visit the official website of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, formerly known as DED.
Step 3: Open the License Verification Tool.
- Look for “Search License Information” or “License Verification” under the “Services” section.
Step 4: Provide Company Information
- Enter the trade name or license number in the search bar.
Step 5: Send in and See the Outcomes
- To view the company’s license details like its status, issue/expiration dates, and activity type, click “Search” or “Verify.”
Step 6: Verify the Accuracy
- Verify that the license is still in effect and has not been suspended or expired.
What to Do After Verifying Your Trade License
If the License is Valid:
- Your business can operate lawfully and in compliance.
- You will receive an official email confirmation within 2 business days.
- To set up your corporate banking and customs code, use the Dubai Trade portal.
- Add team members to your Dubai Trade account to make operations run more smoothly.
If the License is Invalid or Suspended:
- Check for any outstanding issues through the Dubai Trade Service Centre.
- Go to Dubai Customs → Business Registration Request → Registration Inquiry.
- Make sure the business details are updated and upload the required documents before resubmitting.
- If required, you can cancel your registration request and begin all over again.
Alternative Ways to Verify a Dubai Trade License
Even though online verification is quick and simple, some people or investors might prefer more conventional or formal approaches:
1. Physical Confirmation
Go to the company’s registered office.
Ask to view the original trade license and any accompanying paperwork, such as:
- Certificate of Company Registration
- Tenancy agreement
- Business contracts
Verify authenticity, government stamps, and online cross-referencing information.
2. Confirm through Governmental Organisations
Speak with the appropriate UAE authorities to verify the legitimacy of the license:
- Department of Economy and Tourism (DET): Dubai’s primary licensing authority.
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI): Verifies the trade credentials and businesses of its members.
- Dubai Customs: Perfect for companies involved in import/export; verifies the validity of customs codes and business registration.
Pro Tip: When contacting government agencies, have the business name or trade license number on hand.
Ensure Business Legitimacy with a Trade License Check
To confirm a company’s legitimacy, one of the simplest yet most important ways is to verify a Dubai trade license. Verifying the status of a business license protects your interests, keeps you out of trouble with the law, and encourages reliable relationships, whether you are a supplier, investor, client, or business owner.
You can set up business in the UAE with confidence and peace of mind if you use the online DED verification tool or seek advice from government agencies.
If you need assistance with business set up in the UAE or how to check trade license online in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai Firmz is available to assist you! We offer professional assistance whether you are setting up a new business or confirming a partner’s license.
Contact:
Phone: (+91) 9555307788
Email: business@dubaifirmsetup.com
From licensing to documentation, customs codes to visas—Dubai Firmz will guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is it possible to check my trade license offline?
Yes. For offline verification, go to the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Q2. What occurs if my trade license is no longer valid?
To prevent fines or interruptions to your business, you must renew it right away via the appropriate DED portal.
Q3. What is the duration of validity for a UAE trade license?
Usually, for a year, a UAE trade license needs to be renewed every year.
Q4. Is there a formal online verification portal?
Yes. Make use of Dubai Economy’s eServices portal or the DED/DET website.
Q5. Is it possible to verify the validity using just the license number?
Yes. To confirm information, enter the license number into the portal.
Q6. Before signing business contracts, is verification required?
Of course, verifying the trade license is highly recommended to confirm the legitimacy of the business.
Q7. Is it possible to locate expired licenses online?
Yes, but they will be prominently marked as “Expired” or “Inactive” by the system.
Disclaimer: This blog’s content is only for general reference. Changes may be made to government regulations. For the most recent information, always visit the official DED or UAE portals.