Which documents and approvals are required to obtain your initial trade name reservation and business license for a Dubai LLC?

Choosing and reserving a trade name is one of the first mandatory steps when forming an onshore Dubai LLC; the official trade-name booking is processed through Dubai’s government business portals and follows strict naming guidelines and eligibility rules.

Reserving the trade name is a prerequisite for the business license application and helps prevent name duplication and brand conflicts before you submit the full LLC incorporation package.

What to prepare

• Proof of identity: passport copies for all shareholders and managers.
• Proof of residency or visa: UAE residence visa copies where applicable.
• Shareholder and manager details: passport, contact info, and national ID where required.
• Proposed trade name: 2–3 name options that comply with UAE naming rules.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA) draft: defining shareholding, commercial activity, and manager powers.
• Initial approval / application forms: completed DED or relevant authority forms.
• Tenancy contract (Ejari) or lease agreement: office address for licensing.
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): from UAE sponsor or current employer if required.
• Special approvals (if applicable): sector-specific clearances for regulated activities (health, education, financial services, food, etc.).
• Company activity list: precise business activities to match the license type.
• Payment for fees: trade name reservation and initial licensing fees.

Approvals you may need

• Trade name reservation approval from the Department of Economic Development / Invest in Dubai portal with adherence to naming rules and restrictions.
• Initial approval for LLC incorporation before final license issuance.
• Activity-specific approvals from ministries or regulators for controlled activities; expect additional documents or certificates for these approvals.
• Premises approval via a valid tenancy (Ejari) and any municipality clearances required for the business activity.

Quick action checklist

1. Pick 2–3 compliant trade names and check availability online.
2. Reserve the trade name and obtain the reservation receipt.
3. Collect passports, MOA draft, tenancy contract, and NOCs.
4. Apply for initial DED approval and any special approvals required.
5. Submit final documents, pay licensing fees, and receive your business license.

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