A trade license gets you started, but global recognition and trust require more. The D-U-N-S® Number, issued by Dun & Bradstreet, is a trusted 9-digit identifier used worldwide to validate businesses for trade, finance, and compliance.
In the UAE, where cross-border transactions, tenders, and due diligence require verified data, the D-U-N-S Number is a vital asset. Whether you're a Free Zone startup or a growing enterprise, this identifier strengthens your business profile and opens doors to global opportunities.
This guide covers:
- What a D-U-N-S Number is
- Why it’s essential for UAE companies
- How to register and use it for trade and compliance
Let’s explore why every serious business in the UAE needs one.
What is a D-U-N-S Number and How to Get One in the UAE?
The D-U-N-S Number (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique 9-digit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) for business entities worldwide. It serves as a digital fingerprint for your business, used globally to verify your company's existence, financial standing, and credibility.
In the UAE, companies can obtain a D-U-N-S Number through Dun & Bradstreet’s regional office or authorized partners. Whether you're operating in a Free Zone, Mainland, or offshore jurisdiction, you can register for one with the appropriate documentation.
Why Do UAE Companies Need a D-U-N-S Number for Global Trade?
A D-U-N-S Number is often mandatory for:
- Exporting goods or services
- Registering with international clients and platforms
- Participating in global supply chains
- Applying for trade finance or letters of credit
- Complying with government procurement and tenders
Many global corporations and public agencies use the D-U-N-S Number as a prerequisite for onboarding suppliers or partners. For UAE-based businesses aiming to expand beyond borders, this identifier simplifies cross-border validation.
Benefits of Having a D-U-N-S Number for UAE Businesses
1. Global Business Identity
A D-U-N-S Number places your company on the global business map. It shows that your business is legitimate and recognized internationally.
2. Trade Finance Access
Banks and financial institutions often require DUNS for trade finance assessments. It streamlines credit risk evaluations and financial documentation.
3. Due Diligence and Transparency
International buyers and investors rely on D&B’s data when conducting due diligence. A D-U-N-S Number enables them to view your business profile and trust your legitimacy.
4. Compliance and Reporting
From Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to ESG reporting, a D-U-N-S Number helps companies meet international compliance standards.
5. Partnerships and Contracts
Many multinational corporations require vendors and partners to have a D-U-N-S Number as part of onboarding.
6. UAE Company Registration and Trade Licensing
In Free Zones and government tenders, D-U-N-S is often requested to validate business structure and ownership during UAE company registration processes.
How to Check If Your UAE Company Has a D-U-N-S Number
If you’re unsure whether your company already has a D-U-N-S Number, you can perform a lookup through the D&B UAE portal or by contacting their support team.
Steps:
- Visit the D&B UAE website or the global DUNS directory.
- Search using your company name or trade license number.
- If found, verify and claim your D-U-N-S profile for updates.
DUNS Number Lookup for Registered UAE Companies
For existing businesses, it’s important to confirm the accuracy of your DUNS profile. Discrepancies in address, trade license, or ownership can delay credit approvals or procurement eligibility.
You can:
- Use the DUNS Number Lookup Tool.
- Contact D&B UAE for assistance in correcting your profile.
- Request an update to your business information through the Company Update service.
How to Verify a Business in the UAE Using a D-U-N-S Number
Businesses, banks, and partners can use a D-U-N-S Number to:
- Validate the authenticity of a UAE company.
- Check ownership and control structures.
- Assess financial stability and payment behavior.
- Conduct due diligence in B2B transactions.
This adds a layer of trust, especially when working with unfamiliar vendors, startups, or overseas suppliers.
Step-by-Step Process to Register for a D-U-N-S Number in Dubai
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Any registered business in the UAE, whether a Free Zone company, LLC, or sole establishment, is eligible.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Refer to the section below on required documents.
Step 3: Choose a Registration Method
You can apply:
- Online via the Dun & Bradstreet portal
- Through authorized partners or Free Zone authorities
- With assistance from D&B UAE directly
Step 4: Submit Application
Fill in your company details, upload documents, and pay applicable fees.
Step 5: Verification and Issuance
D&B will review your documents and verify company details before assigning your D-U-N-S Number.
Documents Required to Apply for a DUNS Number in Dubai
To apply for a D-U-N-S Number in Dubai, prepare the following:
- Valid Trade License copy
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Shareholder or ownership details
- Emirates ID of authorized signatory
- Contact details (email, phone, address)
- Company stamp (for application validation)
Additional documents may be requested for verification, especially if your business has complex ownership structures.
How Long Does It Take to Get a DUNS Number in Dubai?
The standard processing time is 5 to 30 business days, depending on the verification and document review.
For urgent requirements (such as tenders or bank submissions), expedited DUNS registration services are available. These can deliver a DUNS Number in as little as 3–5 business days with additional charges.
How to Apply Online for a DUNS Number in Dubai Free Zone
Many Free Zones in Dubai, such as DMCC, DIFC, and DAFZA, collaborate with D&B for DUNS Number registrations. You can apply online by:
- Visiting the Free Zone portal or contacting their helpdesk
- Completing the DUNS registration request
- Uploading required documents
- Waiting for D&B confirmation and issuance
Alternatively, businesses can directly apply through D&B’s UAE platform by choosing the Free Zone option during the registration process.
Where to Get Assistance for DUNS Registration in Dubai
- Dun & Bradstreet UAE: They offer direct registration, updates, and DUNS assistance.
- Free Zone Authorities: Assist member companies.
- Business Consultants: Can handle document preparation and submission.
- Banks or Trade Finance Advisories: Often assist exporters or SMEs applying for trade finance that require a DUNS Number.
How to Verify a Company Using Its DUNS Number?
To verify a company using its D-U-N-S® Number, you can use Dun & Bradstreet’s global business database to access accurate, up-to-date information about the company’s identity, ownership, and financial standing. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the D&B Website or Portal
Go to the official Dun & Bradstreet UAE website. - Use the D-U-N-S Number Lookup Tool
Enter the 9-digit D-U-N-S Number in the search field. If you don’t have the number, you can also search by company name and location to retrieve the D-U-N-S profile. - Review the Business Information
The company’s D-U-N-S profile will typically include:- Legal business name
- Registered address
- Ownership structure
- Industry classification
- Operational status
- Financial and risk indicators (if available)
- Request a Business Information Report (Optional)
For more detailed verification, you can order a Business Information Report (BIR) through D&B. This includes financials, credit ratings, payment history, and legal filings, especially useful for due diligence and trade risk assessments.
How to Verify a Company Using Its DUNS Number?
To verify a company using its D-U-N-S® Number, you can use Dun & Bradstreet’s global business database to access accurate, up-to-date information about the company’s identity, ownership, and financial standing. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the D&B Website or Portal
Go to the official Dun & Bradstreet UAE website. - Use the D-U-N-S Number Lookup Tool
Enter the 9-digit D-U-N-S Number in the search field. If you don’t have the number, you can also search by company name and location to retrieve the D-U-N-S profile. - Review the Business Information
The company’s D-U-N-S profile will typically include:- Legal business name
- Registered address
- Ownership structure
- Industry classification
- Operational status
- Financial and risk indicators (if available)
- Request a Business Information Report (Optional)
For more detailed verification, you can order a Business Information Report (BIR) through D&B. This includes financials, credit ratings, payment history, and legal filings, especially useful for due diligence and trade risk assessments.
Conclusion
A D-U-N-S® Number is your gateway to accurate, accessible, and standardized data that powers confident decision-making. For businesses in the UAE, where international trade, compliance, and strategic partnerships are central to growth, having a D-U-N-S Number means your company is part of a globally trusted database maintained by Dun & Bradstreet.
By joining the global Dun & Bradstreet network, your business becomes part of a trusted ecosystem used for due diligence, compliance, and strategic decision-making. In today’s data-driven economy, a D-U-N-S Number is a vital step toward stronger partnerships and smarter growth.
FAQs
Q: Who issues the D-U-N-S Number in the UAE?
A: The D-U-N-S Number in the UAE is issued by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), a global business information provider. UAE businesses can obtain it through D&B’s regional office or authorized partners, including select Free Zone authorities and business consultants.
Q: Is a D-U-N-S Number the same as a trade license number?
A: No, a D-U-N-S Number is not the same as a trade license number.
A trade license number is issued by the UAE government (e.g., DED or Free Zone) and authorizes you to conduct business locally.
A D-U-N-S Number is a global business identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet, used to validate your company internationally for trade, finance, and compliance purposes.
Q: What is the difference between a D-U-N-S Number and a VAT number in the UAE?
A: A D-U-N-S Number and a VAT number serve different purposes:
The D-U-N-S Number is a unique identifier for your business in the global D&B database, used for international verification, trade, finance, and compliance.
The VAT number is issued by the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in the UAE and is required for tax reporting and collection of Value Added Tax.
Q: Is a DUNS Number required for government tenders in the UAE?
A: Yes, in many cases. Several UAE government entities, Free Zones, and international procurement platforms require companies to have a D-U-N-S Number when applying for tenders or registering as a supplier. It ensures the government can validate your business structure, financials, and ownership through an internationally trusted database.
Q: Can I change the company details linked to my DUNS Number?
A: Yes, you can request changes or updates to the company information associated with your D-U-N-S Number. This is especially important if your business has undergone restructuring, changed addresses, or updated ownership details.
Updates can include:
- Legal business name
- Company address
- Ownership or management information
- Contact details
Q: How to update my DUNS profile in the UAE?
A: To update your DUNS profile:
- Visit the Dun & Bradstreet UAE website or the Company Update portal.
- Provide your existing D-U-N-S Number.
- Submit supporting documents for the changes (e.g., updated trade license, MOA, etc.).
- Wait for verification and confirmation from the D&B team.
