Opening a commercial register in Dubai is a pivotal step in the journey of establishing a successful business in one of the world’s leading economic destinations. With its thriving business environment and advanced infrastructure, Dubai offers ample opportunities for investors and business owners to start and grow. However, the process of opening a commercial register can seem complicated for many, especially for new investors or those who do not have a broad background in local procedures. This is where working with Itqan comes in, as it provides specialized support to simplify this process and ensure that all legal and regulatory requirements are met.
With its extensive experience and deep understanding of the UAE market, Itqan Company contributes greatly to facilitating the procedures related to opening a commercial register. The process begins with determining the type of business activity you intend to operate in, where you must choose the type of commercial register that suits the nature of your business. Then, Itqan Company provides support in collecting and preparing the required documents, which include, for example, passport, residency, and the lease contract for the workplace.
After preparing the documents, opening a commercial register in Dubai, Itqan helps you apply to open a commercial register with the relevant government agencies, such as the Department of Economic Development in Dubai. It also requires compliance with local requirements and legal procedures, such as obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses. With the guidance and expertise provided by Itqan, you can quickly and efficiently navigate the bureaucratic complexities.
By partnering with Itqan, investors can focus on developing their businesses while the company takes care of all the administrative and technical procedures related to opening a commercial register. This collaboration ensures a smooth and solid start in the UAE market, contributing to the successful achievement of your business goals.

Open a commercial register in Dubai
Basic steps to open a commercial register in Dubai
Opening a commercial register in Dubai is a vital step for anyone looking to set up a business in one of the most attractive cities for investment in the world. Dubai is a global financial and commercial hub, and its advanced legal system and sophisticated infrastructure provide an ideal environment for businesses. However, the process of opening a commercial register can seem complicated for those who are not familiar with the local procedures. Therefore, it is essential to understand the basic steps to ensure that the process runs smoothly and avoid any delays.
- Step 1: Determine the type of business
Before submitting the application, you must select the type of business activity you wish to engage in. This selection determines the type of commercial registration and license required, and must be in line with the activities permitted in Dubai.
- Step 2: Choose the type of commercial register
There are different types of business registrations depending on the type of activity and company structure. Options include commercial registration for sole proprietorships, limited liability companies, and joint stock companies. You should choose the type that best suits the nature of your business.
- Step 3: Prepare the required documents
Opening a commercial register requires submitting a set of basic documents such as a passport, residence visa, office lease contract, and a personal photo. The required documents may vary depending on the type of activity and company.
- Step 4: Submit the application to the Department of Economic Development
After preparing the documents, the application is submitted to the Department of Economic Development in Dubai. This includes filling out the application form and submitting the required documents, which will be reviewed and verified.
- Step Five: Obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses
After reviewing the application and documents, the Department of Economic Development will issue the necessary approvals and licenses. You may need to obtain additional licenses depending on the type of business activity.
- Step 6: Pay fees and associated costs
The fees include the cost of the basic license, office rent, and documentation fees. These fees must be paid to ensure the issuance of the commercial register and completion of the incorporation process.
- Step Seven: Receive the Commercial Register
After completing all the previous steps and paying the fees, you will receive the commercial registration for your company. You can now start practicing the business and comply with all legal and commercial requirements.
Following these basic steps will help speed up the process of opening a commercial register and ensure that you comply with all necessary procedures, paving the way for the success of your business in Dubai.

Documents required to open a commercial register in Dubai
Documents required to open a commercial register in Dubai
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires preparing a set of basic documents that ensure your compliance with the applicable legal and commercial requirements. Dubai is one of the most attractive destinations for investment, and providing the required documents correctly contributes to speeding up the establishment process and avoiding delays. It is essential to be prepared and know exactly what you need before submitting your application to the relevant authorities.
- Passport
A colour copy of the passport of all partners and major investors in the company must be provided. Make sure that the passport is valid and close to the expiry date.
- Residence visa
Opening a commercial register in Dubai requires submitting a copy of the residence visas of the concerned individuals. In case of absence of residence visas, an application can be submitted for them after issuing the commercial register.
- Office Lease Contract
A lease contract for the business premises or office to be used in Dubai must be submitted. The contract must be notarized and certified by the relevant authorities, and must comply with the requirements of the Free Zone or Greater Dubai.
- Selfie
You need to provide recent passport photos of all partners and key investors. The photos must be clear, with a white background, and must comply with the Department of Economic Development standards.
- Registration request
The registration application form provided by the Department of Economic Development must be completed and submitted. The form includes details about the business activity, company type and organizational structure.
- Additional documents related to the business
Depending on the type of business, you may need to provide additional documents such as special permits or professional licenses. These documents include details about the nature of the business and operational plans.
- Company’s Articles of Association
The company’s articles of association must be submitted, which include the laws and regulations that govern business operations and define the rights and obligations of partners and investors.
- Documentation fees
In addition to the documents, documentation and registration fees are required that vary depending on the type of activity and company. Be sure to review the specific fees and pay them on time.
Preparing these documents accurately and organizing them properly can help speed up the process of opening a commercial register and facilitate the required procedures, ensuring a smooth start to your business in Dubai.
Learn about commercial registration in Dubai
At the end of the process of opening a commercial register in Dubai , it becomes clear that working with Itqan is a crucial strategic step towards achieving commercial success. After completing all the necessary procedures, from determining the type of business activity to submitting the required documents and licenses, the importance of Itqan’s support in accelerating and facilitating this process becomes clear. Itqan provides specialized support and in-depth knowledge of the UAE market, ensuring that all legal and regulatory requirements are met smoothly and efficiently.
With Etqan’s expertise, investors can focus on other aspects of their business, such as developing growth and expansion strategies, rather than dealing with complex administrative details. Etqan helps reduce bureaucratic burdens by accurately guiding investors and providing specialized advice, which increases the chances of success and ensures full compliance with local laws.
When you have a trusted partner like Itqan, you can handle the challenges and complexities of opening a commercial register with confidence and peace of mind. From submitting applications and following up on procedures, to dealing with any issues that may arise, Itqan is your ideal companion on this journey.
In summary, opening a commercial register in Dubai with Itqan Company provides you with a strong and reliable base to start your business in a thriving commercial environment. By cooperating with Itqan, you get comprehensive support that allows you to confidently move towards achieving your business goals, which contributes to your success and growth in the competitive UAE market.
Frequently asked questions about commercial registration in Dubai
What are the basic steps to open a commercial register in Dubai?
The basic steps include determining the type of business activity, choosing the type of commercial registration, preparing the required documents, submitting the application to the Dubai Department of Economic Development, and obtaining the necessary approvals and licenses.
What documents are required to open a commercial register in Dubai?
Basic documents include passport, residence visa, office lease contract, personal photo, registration application, and sometimes additional documents related to the business activity and company articles of association.
How long does it take to issue a commercial register in Dubai?
The process of issuing a commercial registration usually takes from one to two weeks, but the period may vary depending on the complexity of the application and the completeness of the documents submitted.
Do I need to obtain an additional license after opening the commercial register?
Yes, for some commercial activities you may need to obtain additional licenses from the competent authorities, such as health or commercial licenses specific to the activity.
What are the costs associated with opening a commercial register in Dubai?
Costs include basic licensing fees, office rent, documentation fees, and sometimes additional costs such as insurance or consulting services.
Can I open a commercial register in Dubai without a physical business location?
Yes, you can have a virtual office or register an email address in some free zones, but it requires some special arrangements depending on the business.
What are the different types of business records available in Dubai?
The main types include the commercial register of sole proprietorships, the commercial register of limited liability companies, and the commercial register of joint stock companies.