A trade license in Dubai is an official document that legally authorizes you to conduct business in the city. Whether your enterprise is large or small, it’s mandatory. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, sign office leases, sponsor employees, or apply for visas.
Trade licenses are issued either by the Department of Economic Development (DED) or by the relevant free zone authority, depending on your business location. This license outlines your approved business activity, the company name, and legal structure.
Why Verifying a Trade License Matters
Imagine you’re entering into a contract with a supplier, client, or even a potential investor. Not verifying their trade license status exposes you to legal risks and fraud. Several businesses in Dubai, including hotels and restaurants, have faced penalties due to expired trade licenses.
That’s why knowing how to check trade license online in Dubai empowers you to protect yourself and your business. It helps ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate, active entity—especially when considering partnerships or business agreements.
Who Issues Trade Licenses in Dubai?
Understanding the license-issuing authority is key before you begin the verification process:
Mainland Companies
- Licensed by Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Suitable for businesses aiming to operate anywhere in Dubai
Free Zone Companies
Licensed by independent authorities such as:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA)
- Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA)
- Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA)
Offshore Companies
These are registered but do not typically operate within the UAE market.
Tip: If you’re exploring how to get a trade license in Dubai, first identify your business jurisdiction—mainland, free zone, or offshore.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Trade License Online in Dubai
For Mainland Companies (DED)
The DED provides a simple tool called “DED Trader Lookup.”
Steps:
- Visit the official DED portal: https://ded.ae
- Navigate to “Search License Information” or use the Business Register.
- Enter the trade name or license number.
- Review the results, which will include:
- Trade name and legal name
- Business activities
- License status (active/expired/cancelled)
- Expiry date
- Registered address
This method is ideal if you’re searching for how to renew trade license in Dubai or just confirming if a mainland company is operating legally.
For Free Zone Companies
Each Free Zone has its own online search system:
Before signing contracts or making investments, especially with firms based in free zones, always confirm their license status.
Exploring how to get gold trading license in Dubai or how to get forex trading license in Dubai? These licenses are often issued in free zones like DMCC due to relaxed financial activity regulations.
Using the UAE’s Unified Government Portal
If you’re unsure of the business’s exact jurisdiction:
This is especially helpful when verifying companies with presence across multiple zones or when you want to check before obtaining a general trading license in Dubai.
Once you’ve searched using the correct platform, here’s what you’ll typically find:
- Trade License Number
- Company Name
- Business Activities
- Legal Structure (LLC, Sole Proprietorship, etc.)
- Expiry Date
- License Status (Active/Expired/Suspended)
If you’re wondering how much is general trading license in Dubai, the cost varies by business activity and zone, typically starting from AED 12,000 to AED 30,000 annually. Always verify cost and status before applying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Knowing the Jurisdiction: Searching for a free zone company on the DED platform will return no results.
- Typos in Search Fields: Incorrect spelling can block results. Double-check your input.
- Using Outdated Websites: Only use official government websites. Avoid third-party directories.
What to Do If You Can’t Find the Company?
If the result isn’t showing:
- Re-enter the company name more accurately
- Use the trade license number instead
- Contact the Free Zone or DED directly
- If needed, visit the authority in person
This is particularly useful when dealing with businesses undergoing renewal or cancellation processes.
When Should You Check a Trade License?
Here are practical situations where knowing how to check trade license online in Dubai is critical:
Even if you’re starting a new business and figuring out how to get municipal approval for trade license in Dubai, understanding the license status of your prospective partners is a smart move.
Final Takeaway
The good news? You don’t need technical skills or a consultant to check a trade license. It’s simple, accessible, and free if done through official portals. Whether you’re an entrepreneur planning to start a business in Dubai, considering how to cancel trade license in Dubai, or verifying the credibility of an existing company, knowing how to check license status is essential.
Still need help? Get in touch with our experts for a free consultation. We’ll assist you with everything—from verifying a license to explaining how to obtain a general trading license in Dubai or how to renew a trade license without penalties.
5 MIN READ 
No Comments
