VAT Registration & Compliance Services in Dubai — Everything Your Business Needs

Since the UAE introduced VAT at 5% in January 2018, compliance has become non-negotiable for every business operating here. Missing a filing deadline or submitting incorrect returns can result in penalties starting from AED 1,000. Whether you’re a startup or an established SME, professional VAT services in Dubai are the safest way to stay compliant and protect your bottom line.

At Addon Global, we provide end-to-end VAT support — from registration to quarterly filing to FTA audit representation.

What Do Our VAT Services in Dubai Cover?

Our VAT services & compliance package handles every stage of your VAT obligations:

  • VAT Registration with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
  • Quarterly VAT return preparation and submission
  • Input/output tax reconciliation
  • VAT refund claims processing
  • FTA audit support and correspondence
  • VAT deregistration when required

Who Needs to Register for VAT in Dubai?

Businesses with taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 annually are legally required to register for VAT. Voluntary registration is available for those above AED 187,500. Non-compliance attracts penalties and can disrupt your trade license status.

If your business is still in the setup phase, our trade license services can help you get your company registered and VAT-ready from day one.

Why Businesses in Dubai Trust Addon Global for VAT Compliance

  • FTA-aligned filing with zero missed deadlines
  • Accurate VAT calculations using certified accounting software
  • Dedicated VAT consultant assigned to your account
  • Transparent pricing — no hidden charges
  • Fully integrated with our bookkeeping and accounting services

Our VAT work is tightly connected to our accounting & bookkeeping services, so your financials are always audit-ready.

Corporate Tax & VAT — A Combined Compliance Strategy

With UAE Corporate Tax now in effect at 9% for profits above AED 375,000, managing both VAT and CT simultaneously is critical. Our corporate tax & compliance team works alongside your VAT consultant to ensure full regulatory alignment.

Need Strategic Financial Oversight?

For businesses that need more than compliance support, our Virtual CFO services provide ongoing financial planning, cash flow management, and growth advisory — all under one roof.

Get VAT Compliant Today

Don’t let VAT obligations slow your business down. Contact Addon Global for a free consultation on VAT registration, filing, or FTA audit support in Dubai.

📍 Al Qusais, Dubai | 📞 +971 58 935 2379 | 🌐 addonglobal.com

Translation and Notary Public Services in Dubai: What You Need to Know

If you are setting up a business, processing a visa, or handling any official paperwork in the UAE, there is a good chance you will need certified translation or notary public services at some point. Many people underestimate how document-heavy the process can be, and a single incorrect or uncertified document can delay an application by weeks.

This guide breaks down exactly what translation and notary public services are, which documents need them, and why getting them right the first time matters.

What Is Certified Translation in Dubai?

Certified translation is not the same as a casual translation done by a bilingual colleague. In the UAE, many government departments and legal bodies require documents to be translated by an approved professional, formatted correctly, and stamped or signed to confirm accuracy.

The most common requirement is Arabic translation. Even if you are submitting documents to a department that operates in English, they will often require an official Arabic version alongside. The reverse is also true — Arabic documents being used for international purposes typically need a certified English translation.

Documents that commonly require certified translation include:

  • Birth, marriage, and divorce certificates
  • Educational qualifications and degrees
  • Passports and national ID documents
  • Business contracts and MOAs
  • Court orders and legal judgments
  • Financial statements and bank documents
  • Visa and immigration paperwork

A mistranslated word in a legal document is not a minor error. It can lead to rejection by the authority, legal disputes, or delays in visa and business processing. This is why working with a reliable service provider matters.

If you are also going through visa services or attestation services, certified translation is almost always a parallel requirement — not a separate step you can skip.

What Is a Notary Public in Dubai?

A notary public is an officially authorised person or office that verifies the authenticity of documents and signatures, making them legally valid for official use. Notarisation confirms that the document is genuine, the signatory is who they claim to be, and the content is legally binding under UAE law.

In Dubai, notarisation is typically handled through the Dubai Courts Notary Public or Ministry of Justice-affiliated notary offices.

Documents that commonly require notarisation include:

  • Power of Attorney (POA)
  • Memorandums of Association
  • Shareholder and board resolutions
  • Affidavits and statutory declarations
  • Business agreements and contracts
  • Company formation documents

If you are in the process of setting up a trade license, registering under IFZA, or applying for Dubai department approvals, there is a strong possibility that at least one of your documents will need to pass through a notary before submission.

Translation vs Notarisation: Do You Need Both?

Yes, in many cases you need both — and in a specific order. The typical sequence is:

  1. Get the document translated by a certified translator
  2. Have the translated document notarised by an authorised notary public
  3. Submit the notarised translated document to the relevant authority

Mixing up this sequence or skipping a step is one of the most common reasons for document rejection in the UAE. Some authorities also require an additional layer called attestation after notarisation, which is a separate but related process. You can read more about attestation services if your documents need to be legalised for international use.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using a non-certified translator. Only translations done by approved professionals are accepted by UAE government bodies. A bilingual freelancer without certification will not meet the requirement.

Submitting expired documents. Some translated and notarised documents have a validity window. Always check submission timelines with the relevant authority.

Ignoring formatting requirements. Different departments have different formatting standards. A document prepared for one authority may not be accepted by another without reformatting.

Skipping Arabic translation. Many people assume their English documents will be accepted as-is. In the UAE, Arabic is the official language of law and government, and Arabic versions are frequently mandatory.

How Addon Global Handles Translation and Notary Services in Dubai

At Addon Global, we manage the entire documentation process — translation, notarisation, and coordination with the relevant offices — so you do not have to chase multiple service providers or worry about compliance errors.

Our team handles:

  • Arabic-English and English-Arabic certified translation
  • Legal, commercial, and personal document translation
  • Power of Attorney and agreement notarisation
  • Corporate document notarisation for business setup
  • Coordination with authorised notary offices in Dubai
  • End-to-end documentation for government submission

We work alongside our business consultancy and visa services teams, which means if your documentation is part of a larger process like company formation or a visa application, everything moves together without back-and-forth delays.

When Should You Start the Process?

The earlier the better. Translation and notarisation take time, especially if documents need to be sourced from overseas, legalised by a foreign authority, or coordinated across multiple departments. Starting the documentation process after everything else is ready is one of the most avoidable delays in business setup and visa applications in Dubai.

If you are unsure which documents you need or where to begin, get in touch with the team at Addon Global. We will assess your requirements and guide you through the process from start to finish.

Call us: +971 58 935 2379 Email: info@addonglobal.com Get a quote today.

How to Get a Trade License in Dubai: Complete 2026 Guide

A trade license in Dubai is an official government permit that legally authorises a business to operate within the United Arab Emirates. Issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for Mainland businesses, or by the relevant Free Zone authority for Free Zone companies, a trade license is the single most important document for any entrepreneur or company starting operations in Dubai.

Without a valid trade license, no business — whether a retail shop, consultancy firm, technology startup, or trading company — can legally function in the UAE. Operating without a trade license can result in heavy fines, business closure, or legal penalties.

If you are planning to start a business in Dubai, understanding how trade licenses work is the essential first step. Addon Global’s trade license services are designed to make this process simple, fast, and fully compliant with UAE regulations — https://addonglobal.com/trade-license/

Types of Trade Licenses in Dubai

Dubai offers several categories of trade licenses depending on the nature of your business activity. Choosing the correct type is critical for legal compliance and smooth operations.

Commercial License A commercial license is issued to businesses involved in trading activities — buying and selling goods, import/export, and general merchandise. This is one of the most commonly issued licenses in Dubai’s thriving trade economy.

Professional License A professional license is suitable for service-based businesses, consultants, freelancers, and professionals such as accountants, lawyers, engineers, doctors, and IT specialists.

Industrial License An industrial license is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, production, or processing of goods. This type of license typically requires specific facility approvals.

Tourism License Businesses operating in the hospitality and tourism sector — travel agencies, hotels, and tour operators — require a dedicated tourism license regulated by the Dubai Department of Tourism.

The expert team at Addon Global analyses your business activity and recommends the most suitable license structure — https://addonglobal.com/business-consultancy/

Mainland vs Free Zone: Which Business Setup Is Right for You?

One of the most important decisions when getting a trade license in Dubai is choosing between a Mainland company and a Free Zone company.

Mainland Company Formation in Dubai A Mainland company is licensed directly by the DET and allows you to conduct business freely across the entire UAE — including government contracts, direct retail, and corporate projects.

Key benefits:

  • Freedom to trade anywhere across the UAE
  • Direct dealing with local customers and government entities
  • Eligibility for government and large corporate tenders
  • 100% foreign ownership available for most business activities
  • Access to a wider range of business activity categories

Note: Mainland companies require a physical office with Ejari registration and are subject to UAE Corporate Tax at 9% on taxable income above the applicable threshold.

Free Zone Company Formation in Dubai A Free Zone company is registered under a specific Free Zone authority — such as IFZA, DMCC, JAFZA, or DIFC — and is designed for international trade, digital businesses, and specialised industries.

Key benefits:

  • 100% foreign ownership guaranteed
  • Fast and simplified registration process
  • Full repatriation of profits and capital
  • Cost-effective setup packages
  • Exemptions available under Qualifying Free Zone Person (QFZP) status

Important: Free Zone companies cannot trade directly in the UAE Mainland without appointing a local distributor or establishing a branch office.

Not sure which setup suits your business? Addon Global provides a free assessment to help you decide — https://addonglobal.com/business-consultancy/

Step-by-Step Process to Get a Trade License in Dubai in 2026

Step 1 — Define Your Business Activity Choose the exact nature of your business. The DET and Free Zone authorities maintain a detailed list of approved business activities. Selecting the right activity determines your license type, fees, and any additional approvals required.

Step 2 — Choose Your Business Structure Decide between a Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore company based on your operational needs, market access requirements, and budget.

Step 3 — Select a Trade Name Submit your proposed company trade name for approval. The name must comply with UAE naming conventions — no offensive language, religious references, or duplicate names of existing businesses.

Step 4 — Apply for Initial Approval Submit your application to the DET (for Mainland) or the relevant Free Zone authority. Initial approval confirms the UAE government has no objection to your proposed business activity.

Step 5 — Arrange Office Space Mainland companies must secure a physical office registered with an Ejari contract. Free Zone companies may qualify for a flexi-desk or virtual office depending on the Free Zone’s requirements.

Step 6 — Submit Documents and Pay Fees Compile and submit all required documents — passport copies, NOC letters, Memorandum of Association — and pay the applicable government fees.

Step 7 — Receive Your Trade License Your official trade license is issued within 3 to 7 working days upon approval, depending on the business activity and approvals required.

Addon Global manages this entire process on your behalf — https://addonglobal.com/trade-license/

Documents Required for a Trade License in Dubai

  • Valid passport copies of all shareholders and managers
  • UAE residence visa copy (if applicable)
  • Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current UAE sponsor (for residents)
  • Proposed trade name
  • Completed application form
  • Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent Agreement
  • Ejari-registered office tenancy contract (for Mainland)

Contact Addon Global for a personalised document checklist tailored to your business — https://addonglobal.com/contact-us/

Trade License Renewal in Dubai

A trade license in Dubai must be renewed annually. Failure to renew on time attracts financial penalties and can lead to business suspension. The renewal process involves:

  • Confirming continued office tenancy (Ejari renewal)
  • Settling any outstanding government fees or fines
  • Updating changes in business activities, ownership, or management
  • Submitting renewal application to DET or the Free Zone authority

Addon Global handles the complete renewal process so your business stays compliant without interruption — https://addonglobal.com/business-consultancy/

Cost of a Trade License in Dubai

The cost varies based on:

  • Type of license (commercial, professional, industrial)
  • Business setup jurisdiction (Mainland vs Free Zone)
  • Number of business activities on the license
  • Office space requirements
  • Number of visa allocations required

Free Zone trade licenses can start from AED 5,750 per year, while Mainland licenses typically range from AED 10,000 to AED 25,000+ depending on the activity and office arrangement.

Addon Global offers transparent, affordable pricing with no hidden charges. Request a quote — https://addonglobal.com/contact-us/

Why Choose Addon Global for Trade License Services in Dubai?

  • End-to-end service from consultation to license delivery
  • Experienced team with deep knowledge of UAE government procedures
  • Fast processing with timely follow-up on all approvals
  • Transparent pricing with no unexpected costs
  • Ongoing support for renewals, amendments, and activity additions
  • Authorised IFZA partner for Free Zone company formation
  • Combined expertise in accounting, VAT, and corporate tax — https://addonglobal.com/corporate-tax-compliance/

Related Services You May Need After Getting Your Trade License

Frequently Asked Questions About Trade Licenses in Dubai

How long does it take to get a trade license in Dubai? Most trade licenses are issued within 3 to 7 working days, depending on the business activity, jurisdiction, and completeness of documentation submitted.

Can a foreigner get a trade license in Dubai? Yes. Dubai allows 100% foreign ownership for most business activities in both Mainland and Free Zone jurisdictions, making it one of the most investor-friendly business environments in the world.

What is the difference between a Mainland and Free Zone trade license? A Mainland license allows you to operate freely across the UAE including government projects and local retail. A Free Zone license is limited to international markets or within the Free Zone unless a local distributor is appointed.

Do I need an office to get a trade license in Dubai? Mainland companies require a physical office under an Ejari contract. Free Zone companies may qualify for a flexi-desk or virtual office depending on the Free Zone’s regulations.

Can I add more than one business activity to my trade license? Yes, multiple activities can be listed on a single trade license subject to authority approval. Additional activities may attract additional fees.

How do I renew my trade license in Dubai? Licenses must be renewed annually by confirming office tenancy, settling dues, and submitting a renewal application. Addon Global handles the entire renewal process for you.

Get Your Trade License in Dubai Today

Starting a business in Dubai is one of the best decisions an entrepreneur can make — but only when done correctly, legally, and with the right guidance.

Addon Global is your trusted business setup partner in Dubai. Our experienced consultants handle your trade license application from start to finish, ensuring fast approval, full compliance, and zero stress.

Call us: +971 58 935 2379 Email: info@addonglobal.com Location: Al Qusais, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Get a Free Quote Today — https://addonglobal.com/contact-us/