Here’s what I’ve learned, both through experience and from talking to others who’ve done it successfully:

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1. Get Your Paperwork in Order Before You Start
One of the biggest delays happens when you’re missing a single document or a small detail is off. Double (even triple) check what’s needed for your business activity and your chosen jurisdiction (mainland via the Department of Economy and Tourism, or free zones like DMCC, JAFZA, Dubai South, etc.).
Tip: Have digital and hard copies ready of your passport, Emirates ID (if you have one), No Objection Certificate (if required), tenancy contract, and all necessary forms.
A friend of mine once had a week-long delay just because his tenancy contract wasn’t attested correctly!

2. Choose the Right Business Activity and Name (from the Official List!)
Your business activity and name must match the approved lists (for example, DET’s activity list for mainland, or those provided by free zones like DMCC, Dubai Silicon Oasis, or Dubai Media City). If your chosen activity or name doesn’t fit exactly, your application can bounce back for revision—costing you precious time.
Practical Example: I’ve seen applicants pick “Consulting” when they really needed “IT Consulting,” and had to redo forms as a result.

3. Respond Quickly to Any Clarification Requests
Authorities may come back with questions or need additional documents. Check your email (and sometimes your spam folder) regularly so you can reply fast. The faster you answer, the quicker your file moves forward.

4. Avoid Mistakes on Forms
Typos, missing fields, or inconsistent information are surprisingly common causes of delays. If you’re not sure, ask for help or carefully review every line before submitting. Sometimes, even your signature style (matching passport, for instance) is checked!

5. Prepay All Applicable Government Fees
Sometimes, applications get stalled simply because a required payment wasn’t processed or confirmed. Double-check all the fee details with DET or your chosen free zone.

6. Pick the Right Jurisdiction for Speed
Some free zones are known for faster processes than others. For example, DMCC and Dubai South often have streamlined online applications, while certain activities in mainland DET can take longer due to extra approvals.

7. Schedule and Attend Mandatory Meetings or Inspections Promptly
If your process requires a site visit, interview, or in-person verification, book the earliest available slot. The sooner you complete this, the faster you get the green light.

Summary & Friendly Tip:
Preparation is everything. The more organized and responsive you are, the smoother (and faster) things will go. If you’re feeling stuck or something seems to be dragging, don’t hesitate to reach out to the relevant authority for an update—they’re usually quite helpful.

Hope this helps you speed up your commercial license approval in Dubai! If you have more questions or want to share your own story, please comment below. Wishing you a smooth and successful business journey!