Are you concerned about whether a single trade license is sufficient to operate your business across multiple emirates? Many entrepreneurs plan to expand their UAE businesses across various emirates. The rules seem simple, but the fine print often brings confusion. Questions like “can I use one trade license in all emirates?” or “is cross-emirate business operations even possible under one license?” tend to delay or derail growth plans.
At Jitendra Business Consultants (JBC), we understand these pain points. Entrepreneurs come to us seeking clarity. We help you make the right move, legally, strategically, and cost-effectively- so your business can seamlessly grow in the UAE.
Why the Confusion Around Licensing Persists?
Dubai has always been a top business destination. Yet many business owners remain uncertain about the scope of a trade license. Can one trade license cover operations in Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates, too? Or do they need to apply for a new license every time they cross borders?
The answer depends on where your business is licensed and how it’s structured. While many assume a single trade license grants freedom across all emirates, the reality is slightly different. To clarify, operating under one license in the UAE is not entirely new. But recent changes, such as the Dubai Unified Licence (DUL), introduced in early 2025, have made the conversation more relevant. This digital identifier with a QR code allows businesses to be recognised across mainland and free zone jurisdictions within Dubai. However, it still requires local compliance when expanding to other emirates.
Understanding Licensing Structures: Mainland vs Free Zone
The type of license you choose directly impacts your ability to trade in multiple locations. Here’s a breakdown:
- Mainland License UAE Multiple Emirates: A company registered under the mainland in Dubai can operate across the UAE. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and offers the flexibility to do business in any emirate without setting up another legal entity.
- Free Zone Companies: These businesses are generally restricted to the jurisdiction of the free zone where they’re registered. For instance, a Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) company cannot sell directly in Abu Dhabi without additional permissions or a branch office.
- Cross-Emirate Business Operations: Free zone firms looking to extend services to the mainland must either open a branch or sign a local distribution agreement. Your business structure must support it legally if you’re trading in multiple emirates with one license.
What Has Changed Recently?
In May 2025, Dubai’s government issued Resolution No. 11 of 2025, allowing free zone entities to apply for temporary permits to operate onshore. These are valid for six months and can be renewed. You can also open a branch of your free zone company in the mainland, eliminating the need for a second, full-fledged license. Still, this expansion is only within Dubai. If you’re targeting Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, you must comply with their local licensing authorities. A single trade license across multiple emirates is partially possible, but with proper planning and structure.
Also, the new Dubai Unified Licence (DUL) helps simplify verification. But it doesn’t remove the need for correct legal registrations. Think of it as a digital layer that connects the dots across Dubai’s economic landscape, the free zone and the mainland.
When Do You Need Another License?
The UAE’s legal framework for business remains decentralised across the emirates. Each emirate governs its licensing authority. So, if you plan to physically operate in another emirate (such as opening a branch office or warehouse), you may still need a separate license under that emirate’s DED.
Keep the following points in mind:
- Operating in multiple emirates under a mainland license is allowed.
- Free zone companies can expand into the Dubai mainland only if they apply for permits or set up a branch.
- Expanding from one emirate’s free zone to another emirate requires new registration.
- UAE trade license for multiple locations is not automatic. Each activity and location must be approved.
How Can JBC Support Your Business Setup Across the Emirates?
At Jitendra Business Consultants (JBC), our role goes beyond paperwork. We analyse your business model and match it with the right licensing setup. If your goal is trading in multiple Emirates with one license, we’ll guide you through every rule and exemption without complications.
We specialise in:
- Advising whether a mainland license in the UAE multiple emirates suits your goals.
- Helping free zone companies legally expand into the Dubai mainland.
- Structuring your business to comply with the UAE trade license multiple locations regulations.
- Simplifying your tax and VAT registrations for cross-emirate business operations.
- Assisting with the use and registration of the Dubai Unified Licence (DUL).
So, if you are wondering, “Can I use one trade license in all Emirates?” We help you find the clearest answer based on facts and law, not guesswork. Your dream of operating under one license in the UAE is possible, but it requires smart planning. Need advice on a unified business license in UAE? Contact us today. Let’s help you grow across borders with clarity and legal assurance.
