How to Get a Digital Marketing License in Dubai in 2025

Digital advertising has surpassed traditional methods, driven by people’s shift to the online world. This trend is also evident in the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai. According to Statista, by 2028, it’s expected that the digital advertising market in the UAE will be worth around US$1451.0 million, growing by 6.36%. Establishing a digital marketing agency in Dubai is a smart move due to the growing demand for online promotion services. With businesses seeking to expand their reach and enhance their brand image, there’s ample opportunity for entrepreneurs to thrive in this market. However, you must acquire a digital marketing license in Dubai to do so.

This blog guides you through the process of obtaining a digital marketing license in Dubai and the intricacies involved.

What is a Digital Marketing License in Dubai?

A digital marketing license in Dubai, a kind of professional license, is a special permit that allows businesses to conduct digital marketing activities legally in the city. The license can be obtained from the mainland or selected free zone. To start your digital marketing agency in Dubai, you will need to acquire a digital marketing license.

Some of the services that a digital marketing agency Dubai can provide include:

• Website and app development
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Content creation
• Email marketing
• Social media management
• Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising
• Search engine marketing (SEM)

How to get a Digital Marketing License in Dubai/UAE in 2025:

The following is the procedure for acquiring a digital marketing license in Dubai:

Step 1 – Choose a location for your agency:

Start by deciding whether to set up your business in Dubai’s mainland or a free zone. Establishing a free zone provides many benefits, such as tax incentives, full ownership, etc. At the same time, mainland company formation in Dubai also provides various benefits, such as the ability to conduct business in the entire UAE. You must weigh the pros and cons of each jurisdiction and select the one that best suits your business needs and budget.

Step 2 – Select the legal business structure:

In the next step, you need to choose the legal structure for your business. UAE offers various options for business structure, like sole proprietorship, limited liability company, free zone establishment, or branch of a local or international company. Your choice will depend on your selected jurisdiction and the type and size of your business.

Step 3 – Select and register your trade name:

Next, you need to choose a name for your business and get it approved by the relevant free zones/mainland authorities. While selecting the trade name, ensure it follows the UAE regulations and market trends. You must ensure that your chosen name is catchy, unique, and does not violate public morals. Avoid any references to religion, government entities, or other organizations.

You can contact our experts at DUBIZ to select the most suitable name for your business.

Step 4 – Obtain initial approval certificate:

You may need to secure a no objection certificate (NOC) from the licensing authority (mainland or free zone) to commence your agency in Dubai. Then, you can proceed with the following steps.

Step 5 – Submit the necessary paperwork:

To apply for the digital marketing license, you need to submit the following documents with the DED/ respective free zone authority depending on your jurisdiction:

• Filled application form
• Proof of ID and address for directors and shareholders
• Passport copies of all shareholders and directors
• Copy of trade name reservation
• Certificate of initial approval
• The tenancy contract for the space you need (not mandatory as you can have virtual address as well)
• Articles of Association (AOA)
• Memorandum of Association (MOA)
• Descriptive document of business activities

Depending on your business needs, you may require additional approvals from various authorities. Also, the list of required documents may vary, and authorities may request additional paperwork. Consult our experts at DUBIZ for tailored guidance.

Step 6 – Obtain your license:

Once your documents are successfully submitted and the necessary fees are paid, you’ll receive final approval from the DED/relevant free zone authorities. With all approvals in place, your license will be issued to you. Upon receiving your business license, you can proceed to apply for visas for yourself, your family and employees if needed and open your corporate bank account.

To ensure continuous validity, it’s essential to renew your digital marketing license annually. It’s advisable to initiate the renewal process at least a month before its expiry. For any guidance regarding trade license renewal Dubai, please contact our experts at DUBIZ.

Digital Marketing License fees in Dubai:

The cost of a digital marketing license in Dubai starts from AED 12,500*. However, the cost can vary depending on the size and scope of your business, the selected jurisdiction, the number of visas applied for, and various other variables.

To know exactly how much your license will cost, please contact our experts at DUBIZ.

Benefits of Digital Marketing Agency in Dubai:

With a digital marketing license in Dubai, you can enjoy several benefits, including:

• There is a growing demand for digital marketing services in the city, creative ample opportunities for you.
• You can enjoy 100% ownership of both mainland and free zone companies. You may need only a legal Services Advisor (LSA) who can help with the legal procedures without holding any shares in your company.
• You can repatriate 100% of your profits and capital gains.
• You can benefit from low personal and corporate taxation.
• Through a digital marketing license, you can offer your clients a wide range of services, including social media management, web development, content marketing, search engine optimization and more.

Get your Digital Marketing License with DUBIZ!

Starting a digital marketing business can be a lucrative venture, especially in the UAE’s thriving digital economy. While obtaining a digital marketing license in Dubai may appear daunting, DUBIZ is here to simplify the process for you. Our experts will assist you in securing your license and handle all documentation and approvals, ensuring a hassle-free and successful establishment of your agency.

Let’s start your digital marketing agency in Dubai together!

📞 Call: +971 56 369 5485

💬 WhatsApp: +971563695485

📧 Email: info@dubiz.co

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is digital marketing in demand in Dubai?

Yes, the digital marketing sector is growing rapidly in Dubai. Businesses today realise the importance of a strong digital presence. As more businesses and ventures establish themselves in Dubai, their demand for agencies that can help them improve their online presence and branding in it’s thriving markets is also growing.

2. How to start a digital marketing agency in Dubai?

The following steps should be followed to start a digital marketing agency in Dubai:

• Choose a location for your agency (mainland/free zone)
• Select your agency’s legal structure
• Register your trade name
• Apply for a digital marketing license
• Apply for a visa
• Open a corporate bank account

3. How much does a digital marketing license cost in Dubai?

The license cost may vary with the scope and size of the business and the jurisdiction chosen. The cost of a digital marketing license in Dubai starts from AED 12,500*.

4. What is the validity of a Dubai digital marketing license?

A Dubai digital marketing licence is valid for one year and needs to be renewed annually to continue operations.