Branch or Additional Trade License Setup in the UAE

Introduction

Expanding your business by registering a branch or obtaining an additional trade license in the UAE can increase market reach and activity scope. AL SAHRAA Businessmen Services LLC provides practical UAE trade license support to guide you through jurisdiction choices, document preparation, approvals, and application submission.

Key points at a glance

Service scope: branch license UAE, additional trade license Dubai, branch setup Ajman and other emirates

We handle document review, application preparation, liaison with authorities, and submission tracking

Common jurisdictions: mainland (Department of Economic Development), free zones, and specific regulator approvals

Typical documents: passport copies, existing trade license, shareholder documents, tenancy contract, power of attorney where needed

Step-by-step process

1. Preliminary assessment - Confirm your corporate status (LLC, JV, foreign company) and the activity you need to add. - Identify the correct jurisdiction (mainland, free zone, or local branch) based on activity and market access.

2. Choose the license type and activities - Select precise activity codes; incorrect selections cause delays. - For additional trade license Dubai, check whether DED/ Economy or a free zone authority is responsible.

3. Prepare required documents - Typical checklist: passport copies, existing trade license copy, Memorandum/Articles of Association, board resolution or shareholder consent, tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai), lease, NOC (if required), power of attorney (POA) if using a service provider.

4. Obtain pre-approvals (if applicable) - Some activities need approvals from government bodies (health, telecom, professional regulators). We identify and request those for you.

5. Submit application and pay fees - We prepare application forms and supporting documents, submit to the relevant authority, and track progress on your behalf.

6. Receive the license and complete post-issue steps - Collect the issued branch license or additional trade license, update corporate records, and assist with bank notifications or visa allocations as needed.

Document checklist (common)

Passport copies of shareholders and managers

Existing UAE trade license (if adding a license or opening a branch of an existing company)

Memorandum and Articles of Association (MOA/AOA) or equivalent

Board resolution/Shareholder resolution approving branch or additional license

Lease agreement and Ejari (for mainland offices in Dubai)

Power of Attorney (if using AL SAHRAA to act on your behalf)

Additional approvals or certificates depending on activity

Practical tips

Define the activity precisely; it affects approvals and cost.

Use a local agent to reduce back-and-forth and speed up submissions.

Prepare notarized and attested documents where required for branch formalities.

FAQs

What is the difference between a branch and a subsidiary?

A branch is an extension of the parent company (same legal entity), while a subsidiary is a separate legal entity (usually a new LLC) with its own liability and shareholding structure.

Can a mainland company open a branch in a free zone?

Branches and subsidiaries have different rules depending on the free zone authority and the parent company's status. Some free zones permit representative offices or branches with specific conditions. We review your case and advise the suitable route.

How long does the process take?

Timelines depend on jurisdiction, activity approvals, and document readiness. AL SAHRAA will provide an estimated timeline after assessment; timelines are indicative and can vary.

Do I need a physical office to get an additional trade license?

Many mainland licenses require a local office (tenancy/Ejari). Some free zones offer flexi-desks or virtual offices. Requirements depend on the chosen jurisdiction and activity.

Will AL SAHRAA handle approvals from specialist regulators?

Yes. We coordinate with relevant authorities for specialist approvals (health, education, telecom, etc.) and include those steps in the project plan.

Call to action

To get a tailored plan and cost estimate, request a quote from AL SAHRAA Businessmen Services LLC. Contact AL SAHRAA today to receive a personalized quote and timeline for your branch license UAE or additional trade license Dubai needs.