Given the commendable infrastructure, diverse cultural environment, lucrative business environment, and ease of business setup in the UAE, more and more entrepreneurs are going for trade name registration in the UAE.
Although the process of setting up a company in Dubai may seem intimidating to a few, it is pretty straightforward, and if you get the right help and guidance, you can complete it in a matter of days.
One of the company formation steps is company name registration in Dubai. The process is pretty simple and only takes around one to two days. However, there are specific guidelines and naming requirements you must comply with for your company name approval. This blog will walk you through all there is to know about trade name registration in UAE.
What Is the Purpose of Company Name Registration in the UAE?
If you want to operate a business entity legally in the UAE, trade name registration in Dubai is a mandatory requirement. Trade name registration helps distinguish companies from each other and indicates the nature of the business. You must register your company name with the Department of Economic Development, complying with the established guidelines that you will read ahead.
What Are the Guidelines for Trade Name Registration in Dubai?
To ensure your business name is approved by the Department of Economic Development (DED), you must follow specific rules for trade name registration in Dubai. Here are the key guidelines you need to know:
1. Avoid Duplicate Names
Before submitting your trade name, check if it’s already in use. Duplicate names won’t be approved by DED, and may even lead to legal issues such as copyright infringement.
2. Skip the Abbreviations
Using abbreviations can confuse customers and obscure what your business does. Choose a clear and descriptive name that reflects your brand identity.
3. No Offensive or Inappropriate Words
Your trade name should not contain foul language or anything that could offend public morals or sentiments. Keep it professional, clean, and respectful.
4. Avoid Religious or Cultural References
Trade names must not include references to God, religion, caste, community, or gender. Stick to neutral, business-relevant terminology.
5. Include Your Business Structure
Your company name should end with a legal business acronym like LLC, FZE, or Services to indicate your structure and avoid rejection during registration.
6. Premium Names Cost Extra
If your trade name includes special words like “Gulf,” Arabic names, or geographical regions, DED will classify it as a premium trade name—which means higher fees.
7. No “Universal” or “International” Starters
Avoid starting your name with words like “International,” “Middle East,” “Global,” or their Arabic equivalents. These are restricted and could lead to disapproval.
8. Using Personal Names
You can name your company after a person, but it must include the full name. Using only a surname is not allowed, though using a full first and last name is acceptable.
What Is the Process of Trade Name Registration in Dubai?
Steps by steps guide for Trade Name Registration in Dubai, UAE:
1. Choose a Suitable Name:
Select a name reflecting your business activity. Ensure it’s unique and complies with DED guidelines. Avoid religious, political, or offensive terms to prevent rejection.
2. Check Name Availability:
Verify the name’s availability through the DED’s online portal or service centers. This step confirms no other business uses your chosen name. It’s quick and prevents future conflicts.
3. Submit Application:
Apply online via the Invest in Dubai platform or in-person at DED offices. Include required documents and pay the registration fee. The process is streamlined for efficiency.
4. Await Approval:
The DED reviews your application within a few days. Upon approval, you receive a trade name certificate. This certificate is valid for six months, requiring renewal if unused.
5. Complete Licensing:
Use the approved name to proceed with trade license formalities. This step finalizes your business setup. Ensure timely action to avoid name cancellation.
What Is the Cost of Trade Name Registration in the UAE?
The cost of registering your trade name depends on the emirate in which you want to incorporate your business. Also, it depends on the type of trade name that you choose. In Dubai, for reference, the Department of Economic Department (DED) handles trade name registration.
The best part? Trade name registration costs in Dubai are affordable. It can be anywhere between AED 620 and AED 2000, depending on the use of foreign names, numerical words, or regional references.
If you wish to register a trademark for your company, it can cost you anywhere near AED 8,700 in the UAE. This cost does not include the publishing fee. You must pay an additional fee of AED 1,000 for publishing the trademark in the official journal.
What Is the Validity of a Registered Trade Name in the UAE?
A registered trade name is valid for six months in the UAE. After six months, the trade name certificate will expire, and you must reserve the trade name again. Note that you have to pay the registration fee again to get it renewed.
Complete Your Trade Name Reservation Process With Shuraa India
Now that you’ve read this blog, you know that the process is quite simple and easy to follow. All you need to do is make sure to follow the steps carefully and ensure the information you submit with DED is accurate.
Moreover, comply with the established guidelines, and you can easily register your company name in Dubai. You can fasten the process of trade name registration in Dubai by partnering with company formation experts. They’re well-versed in the process and can complete it much faster than you would by yourself.
The company formation experts at Shuraa India have a thorough knowledge of all the steps involved in the company formation process. If you partner with them, they will walk you through the process, explain all the legal guidelines of trade name registration and acquire necessary permission on your behalf.
Moreover, they will complete the process in just a few hours, which could otherwise take up to 2 days. What’s best is that they will get it done at the least possible cost. To seek help from the Shuraa, all you need to do is call us, share all your business details and requirements, and we will take care of the rest.
