Set Up Your Branch or Additional Trade License — Fast, Compliant, Local Support
AL SAHRAA helps businesses expand in the UAE by setting up branch offices and securing additional trade licenses in Dubai and Ajman. We guide you through approvals, paperwork, and local regulatory requirements to streamline market entry and growth.
Overview
Expanding into a new emirate or adding a trade license requires attention to local regulations, approvals, and partner or sponsor arrangements. AL SAHRAA conducts an initial assessment of your current license and proposed activities, then recommends the optimal route—mainland branch, free zone arrangement, or additional activity on an existing license. We handle government filings, application preparation, liaison with relevant authorities (e.g., DED, Ajman Department of Economic Development, relevant free zone authorities), and coordination of any approvals or attestations needed. Our approach focuses on minimizing administrative delays and ensuring required documentation is complete and accurate. Clients receive clear timelines, a checklist of required documents, and proactive updates through the process. We do not provide legal advice but coordinate with legal partners if corporate restructuring or contractual matters require specialist input.
What to prepare
- Copy of existing trade license and company registration documents
- Shareholder passport copies and UAE residence visas (if applicable)
- Board resolution or notarized power of attorney authorizing branch setup
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (or equivalent)
- Proposed lease or tenancy agreement for branch premises (Ejari if in Dubai)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from parent company or sponsor (if required)
- Any industry-specific approvals or certificates (e.g., regulatory clearances)
How the process works
- Initial eligibility review and activity gap analysis
- Recommend structure: branch, additional activity, or free zone option
- Prepare and submit application with supporting documents to relevant authority
- Coordinate approvals, pay fees, and obtain the amended or new trade license
- Deliver final documents, updated license copy, and next-step compliance checklist
Why clients choose AL SAHRAA
- Admin-reviewed quotations before you proceed.
- Document coordination and progress tracking in one portal.
- Support for business, compliance, visa, insurance, and IT-related requests.
- Clear request history, updates, and delivery follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a branch and an additional activity on an existing license?
A branch is a separate establishment of the parent company operating in another emirate or jurisdiction and may require local approvals; an additional activity modifies the existing license to cover new business activities without creating a separate legal entity.
How long does branch or additional license setup usually take?
Timing varies by emirate, authority, and activity. Typical timelines range from a few days for simple amendments to several weeks when external approvals or attestations are required. We provide an estimated timeline after the initial review.
Do I need a local sponsor or partner to open a branch in Dubai or Ajman?
Local requirements depend on the legal structure and activity. Mainland branches often require a local service agent or commercial agent; free zones have their own ownership rules. We assess your specific case and explain any local representation needs.
Will you handle interactions with government departments and free zones?
Yes. We prepare and submit applications, liaise with licensing authorities, and follow up on outstanding items. If legal documents require notarization or legal drafting, we coordinate with specialist legal providers.
What costs should I expect for a branch or additional license?
Costs include government fees, licensing fees, possible local agent or sponsor fees, office lease costs, and any industry-specific approval charges. After reviewing your requirements we provide a clear fee estimate.
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