Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position as one of the most business-friendly destinations in the world. Whether you are a freelancer, entrepreneur, investor, or corporation, the capital city of United Arab Emirates offers a wide range of trade licences designed to support different industries, business models, and investor profiles. From creative home-based setups to large-scale commercial enterprises, Abu Dhabi provides flexible, affordable, and streamlined licensing options that make starting a business easier than ever.
This comprehensive guide explores all major trade licences available in Abu Dhabi — including freelancer, dual licence, instant licence, farm licence, Tajer licence, virtual licence, Mobdea licence, and the standard economic licence. Each option offers unique advantages, eligibility criteria, and cost-effective pathways to launch and grow your business.
1. Dual Licence: The Best of Free Zone and Mainland Business
The Dual Licence is ideal for companies already operating inside Abu Dhabi’s economic free zones who want to expand their activities into the mainland. It allows businesses to keep all the benefits of their free zone setup while unlocking full access to the UAE mainland market.
Who is it for?
- Companies registered in an Abu Dhabi free zone
- Businesses wanting to participate in Abu Dhabi Government tenders
- Companies aiming to expand their sales and operations into the mainland
Key Benefits
- Operate both inside and outside the free zone
- Base fee of AED 1,200 (includes 6 activities)
- Easy setup requiring only Emirates ID
- Simple add-ons of AED 100 per additional activity
The Dual Licence offers unmatched flexibility for companies wanting to scale across Abu Dhabi without restructuring their legal entity.
2. Farm Licence: Empowering UAE Citizens in Agriculture
The Farm Licence is designed exclusively for UAE nationals who want to participate in the UAE’s expanding agricultural sector.
Who is it for?
- UAE citizens who own or lease farms
- Individuals seeking to commercialise agricultural activities
Why it’s popular
- No office space is required
- Access to 70+ animal, crop, training, and agricultural consultancy activities
- Affordable fees ranging from AED 790–5,500
- Includes six activities in the base cost
This licence opens the door to both traditional and modern farming opportunities, helping strengthen the nation’s long-term food security ecosystem.
3. Abu Dhabi Freelancer Licence: Freedom to Work Independently
The Freelancer Licence is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular options among UAE residents, professionals, and expatriates who want to work independently.
Best for:
- Creative professionals
- Consultants, IT experts, media specialists
- Skill-based professionals wanting flexible income streams
Key Features
- Over 100 approved freelance activities
- No office required — work from home
- Residency visas available for the freelancer and family
- AED 1,200 base fee with 6 included activities
This licence empowers individuals to monetise their talents while maintaining full control over their work schedule and income.
4. Instant Licence: Start Your Business Immediately
If you want to begin operations fast, the Instant Licence is the perfect solution.
Why entrepreneurs choose it
- Fast approvals
- Start immediately and submit documents later
- 940 permitted activities
- Ideal for UAE nationals, residents, and GCC nationals
Although an office lease is required, the Instant Licence is one of the quickest ways to establish your business in Abu Dhabi.
5. Mobdea Licence: Supporting Emirati Women Entrepreneurs
The Mobdea Licence is a specialised licence dedicated to Emirati women living in Abu Dhabi who want to transform their creative skills into a home-based business.
Suitable for:
- Artists, writers, e-commerce sellers
- Creative professionals and home-based services
Key Highlights
- No office required
- 50 creative and service activities available
- Only two similar activities allowed per licence
- Base fee of AED 860
- No documents required
This licence provides an accessible and empowering pathway for Emirati women to enter the business world with minimal cost or complexity.
6. Standard Economic Licence: The Most Versatile Licence in Abu Dhabi
The Standard Economic Licence is one of Abu Dhabi’s most comprehensive business licences, offering access to more than 1,100 activities across all major sectors.
Ideal for:
- SMEs, corporations, investors
- Commercial, professional, and industrial businesses
Why it stands out
- Supports all major legal forms, including LLC, PJSC, and partnerships
- Base fee AED 1,200
- Office lease requirements depend on activities
- Flexible legal structure options
For entrepreneurs seeking flexibility, credibility, and the ability to operate across multiple industries, this licence is the leading choice.
7. Abu Dhabi Trader Licence (Tajer Licence): No Office for 3 Years
The Tajer Licence, also known as the Abu Dhabi Trader Licence, is one of the most cost-effective and convenient options in the emirate.
Who is it for?
- UAE nationals, GCC nationals, and UAE residents
- Entrepreneurs who want a low-cost startup option
Advantages
- No office required for the first 3 years
- Access to 1,200+ activities
- AED 790 base cost with 6 included activities
- Only Emirates ID required
This licence is perfect for business owners who want a simplified, minimal-cost setup.
8. Virtual Licence: Set Up in Abu Dhabi From Anywhere in the World
The Virtual Licence is designed for international investors who want to establish a presence in Abu Dhabi remotely.
Why global entrepreneurs choose it
- No physical presence required
- No office needed
- Ideal for foreign investors planning future relocation
- Six activities included and add-ons available
With just a passport and a photo, foreign investors can begin operating in the UAE market before ever stepping foot in the country.
Which Licence Is Right for You?
Choosing the right trade licence depends on your business model, industry, citizenship status, and long-term goals. Abu Dhabi’s diverse licensing system ensures that every entrepreneur — from freelancers to international investors — can find the ideal path to success.
Whether you want flexibility, speed, affordability, or sector-specific opportunities, Abu Dhabi offers a licence tailored to your needs.
Not sure which Abu Dhabi trade licence fits your business? Speak (hyperlink to contact us page) to Setup In Abu Dhabi for expert guidance and a smooth, fast setup process tailored to your goals.
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