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Trader License in Abu Dhabi: A Complete Guide

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, unfolds as a busy commercial hub with enormous opportunities both for entrepreneurs and investors in general. The Trader license is the most popular choice for individual entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to establish their presence in Abu Dhabi. This license is designed to make things easy for setting up a business and reducing some of the costs and administrative burdens associated with business registration.

This article explains the relevant information on the Abu Dhabi Trader License, including its types, requirements, and how one can obtain such a license.

What is a Trader License?

Abu Dhabi trader license, also known as the Tajer license Abu Dhabi, is a permit issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). It basically accords rights to both residents and foreigners to continue business activities within Abu Dhabi. It is a matter of establishing credibility and legality in one’s business.

Types of Trade Licenses in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi issues various kinds of trade licenses, considering the type of activity that will be undertaken by the company:

  1. Commercial License: A business concerned with trading activities, buying, selling, and its distribution. It also involves import and export businesses and retail and wholesale traders.
  2. Industrial License: This license is for those businesses that are engage in manufacturing activities, including the production of goods either from raw materials or semi-finished or partly manufactured components.
  3. Professional License: Shall be for consulting businesses offering professional services in accounting, law, health sciences, among others.
  4. Tourism License: For businesses operating in the tourism sector, such as hotels, travel agencies, and restaurants.

The eCommerce License (Tajer Abu Dhabi)

The license of Tajer Abu Dhabi is a special kind of trade license for eCommerce. It allows entrepreneurs to add their online trade activities to their existing licenses, or obtain a new license to conduct business through websites and social media networks. When first introduced in 2017, this license was only extended to UAE nationals for 100 business activities that did not require a physical presence in Abu Dhabi. Later, in 2018, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) widened it to include all GCC nationals, as well as UAE residents, under three legal forms:

  • Establishment for Emiratis and GCC nationals
  • One-person company for Emiratis and GCC nationals
  • Limited Liability Company for residents in partnership with Emiratis.

The number of eligible activities covered under the license has also grown to 1,057, all exempt from a physical office.

Requirements for Individual Trader Licenses

To be an individual trader and apply for such a license in the United Arab Emirates, one needs to:

  • Have UAE Residency: You should have residence in the United Arab Emirates. This typically requires a valid residence visa.
  • Get an Emirates ID: You must be in possession of a valid Emirates ID card that serves as your official identification in the United Arab Emirates.
  • Passport Copies: You have to provide copies of your passport along with any applicable visas.
  • No Objection Certificate: You will be required to obtain a no objection certificate from your employer or the company you work for if you are being sponsored by them, in order for you to practice individually as a business.

However, it is to be noted that some requirements may vary slightly depending on the nature of the business, and additional regulations or approvals that may be needed.

Issue of Tajer license Abu Dhabi

Through this service, you can obtain a Tajer Abu Dhabi license for specific commercial activities without the existence of an official establishment site for a duration of three years. The licence issues a standard Memorandum of Association, simplifying the process for entrepreneurs.

Steps to Obtain a Tajer Abu Dhabi License

Here is the step-by-step procedure to obtain a Tajer Abu Dhabi license:

  1. Login with UAE Pass: Access via the online portal using UAE Pass.
  2. Application for License: Fill up the application form for a Tajer Abu Dhabi license and submit it.
  3. Get Approvals: Obtain approvals from other entities if required.
  4. Notification of Status: You will receive notification of approval/rejection in status.
  5. Pay Applicable Fees: Deposit whatever fees are prescribed to proceed with the license issuance.
  6. License Obtainment: You will receive your new economic license-Tajer Abu Dhabi-after approval.

Benefits of the Trader License

Obtaining a Trader business license in Abu Dhabi has several benefits that would make the entrepreneur go for it. These are some of them:

  • Residency Visa: It can provide the owner with a residency visa. This is quite an advantage; one gets to stay in the UAE, allowed by law while operating the business.
  • Employment Visa: A Trader License in Abu Dhabi will help in getting employment visas for employees of a business owner. The owner can sponsor their employees in obtaining work permits and residence visas that would allow working and staying in Abu Dhabi legally.
  • Cost-Effective: Tajer Abu Dhabi license cost is reasonably affordable as compared to other types of business licenses. This makes it an attractive option for entrepreneurs who wish to keep their initial investment low.
  • Quick Processing: As a matter of fact, one of the significant advantages of the Trader license is really quick processing, and you are capable of starting your business promptly.

Terms of Service for Trader License in Abu Dhabi

  • Validity and Renewal: The license shall be valid for one year from the date of its issue and may be renewed without location for an economic establishment for the first 3 years only. It shall not be renewable without a location for the establishment after a period of 3 years.
  • Age of the applicant: The applicant’s age shall not be less than the legal age.
  • Activity Selection: Select activity from the list of permitted economic activities.

How HHS Lawyers in Dubai Can Assist You

Obtaining a Trader business license or an e-commerce license can be tricky, especially if you are not familiar with the requirements. In every respect, HHS Lawyer can assist you. You can expect experienced legal assistance from our firm in:

  • Documentation Preparation and Submission: We will ensure all your documents are complete and as per the requirement mentioned by the authorities. This will also include assisting you in obtaining the required NOC from your sponsor.
  • Ensuring Full Compliance with All the Legal Requirements: Our lawyers will guide you with regard to legal needs and enable your business to comply with every regulation concerned. This could be your safety against any pending legal concerns later on.
  • Best Practice Guidance on Setting Up Your Business: We give practical legal expert advice on best practice in setting up and maintaining your business. Our professionals will be available to advise you on business planning, financial management, and marketing strategies.

At HHS Lawyers in Dubai, we understand that setting up a business can be really cumbersome. That is why we provide the support and expertise needed for one’s success. Our firm offers services with fees of AED 3,000, and authority fees around AED 1,000, to make the process seamless and smooth. This entire process can be completed in a maximum of two weeks.

It is advisable to get in touch with a lawyer from HHS today, making setup smooth and easy. Ease of business setup in Abu Dhabi will mark your very first step toward an entrepreneurial journey.

Hassan Humaid Al Suwaidi., LL.B.

Hassan Humaid Al Suwaidi., LL.B. is a Senior Partner in HHS Lawyers. He has 20 years of experience dealing with high-value and complex cases. Frequently featured in local and international legal directories and commended for his ability to attain favorable outcomes for clients, Hassan has been involved in some of the largest legal settlements. A major part of his work is providing expert legal advice on UAE legislation and acting for individuals and businesses during disputes and litigation.