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Nathan Hunt

Cheapest Trade License in Abu Dhabi GUARANTEED

Updated 23 August 2024

Seeking the cheapest trade license in Abu Dhabi is a priority for anyone starting a new business. If you landed here expecting to discover the absolute lowest-priced trade license available right now, I must clarify upfront: this article takes a different approach. Rather than simply chasing the cheapest option, our aim is to shed light on the potential pitfalls of price-driven advertising, and guide you towards securing the optimal blend of affordability and suitability for your business needs, both initially and in the long run. While tempting, it's crucial to remember that the cheapest trade license isn't always the most suitable. As the old adage goes, 'If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!


The Harsh Truth: "Cheap" Trade License Ads Aren't Your Best Deal

Deceptive ads promising the cheapest trade licenses in Abu Dhabi at a specific price point are rampant across various platforms. These ads aim to lure in aspiring entrepreneurs seeking affordable options to kickstart their businesses. It's only natural to seek the best deal, but these ads often lead to disappointment. Here's why:


  1. Hidden Costs: The advertised price seldom covers all expenses involved in obtaining a trade license. Additional fees, conveniently omitted from the ad, can significantly inflate the total cost. Moreover, you may find yourself already committed and well into the process before you realize the 'actual' cost.

  2. Long-Term Considerations Ignored: The advertised price may not align with the business' future goals. As the enterprise expands, the initially cheap license could become a financial burden, unnecessarily.

  3. Limited Coverage: The promoted license type may not support the specific business activities the individual intends to pursue, or the geographical area.

  4. Visa and ID Expenses Not Included: Costs associated with obtaining visas and Emirates IDs are typically not factored into the advertised fee.

These ads are often supported with aggressive sales tactics. Sales people seize the opportunity to push for an immediate purchase, citing limited-time offers. Urgency is created to pressure prospects into making hasty decisions - sign up now, or lose out. However, those who hastily commit based on these ads often find themselves disappointed later on.


Wrong trade license in Abu Dhabi - can it happen?

Absolutely, it's entirely possible to end up with the wrong trade license in Abu Dhabi. Conducting thorough research is essential to ensure you obtain the appropriate license when setting up your business. Price is just one piece of the puzzle; numerous factors demand consideration. Regrettably, I frequently encounter individuals and companies who find themselves regretting their choice of license. Often, this regret stems from succumbing to high-pressure sales tactics or a lack of awareness regarding the right questions during the licensing process.


Essential Questions: Securing the Cheapest Trade License in Abu Dhabi

Before diving into the process of starting a business in Abu Dhabi, ask the following six questions:


  1. What is the primary activity of your business? Are you providing services or products?

  2. Where are your products and services being delivered? Abu Dhabi; one of the free zones such as ADGM on Al Maryah Island and Reem Island, TWOFOUR54 on Yas Island, or Masdar City Free Zone close to Zayed International Airport; in Dubai; or overseas?

  3. Who are your target clients? Will your business cater primarily to private sector companies or government entities?

  4. How many employees do you anticipate hiring?

  5. Are there any special approvals required for your product or service to be offered legally?

  6. Will your prospective clients necessitate specific approvals for you to conduct business with them?


Addressing these fundamental questions is pivotal as they directly influence various aspects of your Abu Dhabi trade license, including the appropriate license type, legal structure, license-issuing jurisdiction, and permitted business activities. Avoiding these questions and just opting for the cheapest license could result in severe financial and operational consequences down the line.


Whats the difference between the business licenses in Abu Dhabi?

Discover Gateway Group's complete guides to the Abu Dhabi business licenses. Written in an easy-to-understand style, our business license guides provide all the information you need to know before setting up your business. Find out about the legal structure and ownership, premises requirements, who can apply, the requirements, visas, exit strategy and so much more. Our current selection of guides includes:



Conclusion: The cheapest trade license in Abu Dhabi is choosing the RIGHT trade license

Getting the cheapest trade license in Abu Dhabi might appear attractive on the surface, but getting the right license is essential. Failure to have the right license could prevent your business from carrying out its activities and contracting with its clients, as well as to cause your business to incur avoidable fines, disruptions and even closure.


Getting the RIGHT Abu Dhabi trade license is the secret to securing the cheapest trade license. So, research upfront and be savvy! Ultimately, getting the RIGHT license will be the CHEAPEST license!


Abu Dhabi freelancer license cost

Gateway Group offers exclusive freelancer packages to assist professional individuals to start freelancing in Abu Dhabi. Our easy business setup packages streamline the process of starting a business in UAE as a foreigner. We offer two primary categories of ready-made freelancer packages: freelancer license packages and freelancer visa packages.


Become your own boss or start your own side hustle in Abu Dhabi with your very own DED license, and if desired, the freelancer license grants holders a two year Abu Dhabi residence visa. Our pricing is transparent, clearly outlining the inclusions and exclusions for each package. These packages are designed to match your specific skill-set. Simply choose the package that aligns with your expertise and complete your purchase swiftly with just a few clicks.




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First published on 20th June 2020.


Written by Nathan Hunt

CEO, Gateway Group, Abu Dhabi & Dubai, United Arab Emirates


trustworthy business setup UAE Gateway Group company formation Abu Dhabi

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