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Those looking to set up a business abroad often choose Dubai as the base for their operations. Dubai is considered to be a land of plenty, with huge profits and tax savings. Well, it is absolutely fair to say so. Based on its modern infrastructure, welcoming government, and business-friendly nature, the city has become a top favourite business destination.
Getting a business started on Dubai mainland is one of the paths to exploring the dynamic economy of the city. Like any business setup, establishing a business on Dubai mainland requires the acquisition of the correct trade license. A Dubai mainland license enables entrepreneurs to undertake business activities across commercial, professional, and industrial sectors.
Understanding the types and costs associated with a Dubai mainland license is essential for a smooth business start. At Dubiz Business Setup, you will find the best industry experts who will guide you in selecting the most suitable trade license and help you establish your business successfully on Dubai's mainland.
Mainland Dubai refers to the geographical area where businesses can operate and enjoy no restrictions on activities. Unlike free zones, mainland companies are not restricted to particular areas and can conduct trade freely across the entire UAE and beyond its borders. Mainland companies also have the flexibility to participate in government projects.
The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the main governing body of the mainland and is responsible for issuing business licenses to companies operating there. All businesses operating on the mainland must always stay updated with the laws and regulations that the DED has in place for them.
A Dubai mainland license is a basic legal requirement for all types of businesses operating on the mainland. It is a permit that allows businesses to operate legally in the region. Without it, any conduct of business activity would be considered illegal.
When starting a business in Dubai, compliance with local regulations cannot be neglected. Thus, getting the appropriate trade license must be the top priority on your list, as it is crucial for legalizing your business entity.
Depending on the nature and business activities to be conducted, companies must choose the right type of business license in Dubai mainland. By types, we mean any one of these broad categories:
Do you plan to buy, sell, or trade goods and commodities in UAE or internationally? Then, you must get a commercial license.
Examples:
Is your business about industrial activities like manufacturing or assembling products? Then, you must obtain an industrial license.
Examples:
Are you an expert and qualified in your field, looking to deliver services to customers? A professional license is just the right type for you.
Examples:
Get the most advantageous Dubai mainland license for your business by consulting our specialist.
Let’s talkThe best thing you can gift your business is a Dubai mainland trade license. There are many reasons behind this statement. As an entrepreneur, you deserve freedom; freedom to trade, freedom to choose your desired activities, and freedom to expand without restrictions. And that is exactly what a Dubai mainland license offers!
Here are the exclusive benefits a Dubai mainland business license provides:
The cost of a business license in Dubai mainland is not the same for everyone. It is largely influenced by unique business specifications and requirements and can be high or low based on that.
For a professional business license in Dubai mainland, prices can start from AED 17,900*, while as, commercial mainland license Dubai starts from AED 24,500*.
Knowing the exact cost helps in budgeting and financial planning in advance. That is why we recommend contacting our expert to determine the approximate figure for your business setup in Dubai mainland.
Get a QuoteSimplifying the mainland business setup in Dubai, our comprehensive license packages are business friendly and cover all the essential needs of entrepreneurs:
From AED 17,900*
From AED 24,500*
Remember, many factors play a role in determining the final cost of your business setup in Dubai mainland. Here are the cost elements along with estimate for each:
Cost Element |
Price Range* |
|---|---|
| DED License Fee This is the core license fee that one needs to pay. The amount varies by the type of activity pursued. |
AED 10,000 - AED 15,000 |
| Annual Renewal Costs The Dubai trade license needs to be renewed annually. The fees lie in the same range as the initial license fees. |
Same as above |
| Trade Name Registration The price of trade name reservation depends on the name availability, class and complexity. |
AED 620 – AED 2,000 |
| Initial Approval Fees This includes the cost of obtaining preliminary approval from the DED. |
AED 235 |
| Local Sponsor Fee The sponsorship fee depends on the characteristics of the business. |
AED 10,000 – AED 50,000 |
| Office Rent The size and location of the office area influences the office rental costs. |
AED 10,000 – AED 50,000/month |
| Visa Costs The visa cost is directly related to the type and number of visas you require. It includes medicals, Emirates ID, and stamping fees. |
AED 3,000 – AED 7,000/per person |
| External Approvals Some business operations require additional permits from specific government departments. The fee depends on the activity. |
AED 1,000 – AED 20,000 |
| MOA Cost This includes the cost of drafting and notarizing the Memorandum of Association. |
AED 600 |
| Additional Costs Besides the ones mentioned above, there can be additional costs associated such as notarization and drafting of legal documents, establishment card fees, etc. |
|
You must submit the following paperwork to the relevant authority to obtain your trade license in Dubai mainland:
Here is the overview of steps for obtaining a business license in Dubai mainland:
Choose from DED’s approved list of activities.
Select and register a name for your business.
Secure a no-objection certificate from the DED.
Get the tenancy contract for the office space.
Obtain specialized permits if required.
Submit the documents for business license to DED.
Understanding the UAE mainland license cost helps you prepare financially and move forward with your business setup smoothly. If you want to enjoy unparalleled access to UAE markets with great flexibility, mainland company formation could be the ideal choice for you.
With Dubiz Business Setup, you can rest assured that your business setup is in safe hands. We offer the most reliable, comprehensive, and relevant business setup services in Dubai. We can assist you in selecting the most suitable business license for your business activity in Dubai mainland. We will guide you end-to-end, making sure you are 100% ready and legally compliant to start your business setup in Dubai. Here is what you get access to with us:
Get a free consultation with our mainland business setup expert today!
Dubai mainland license is a legal authorization issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) to the businesses which lets them operate legally within the Emirate. It can be a commercial, industrial or a professional business license based on firm’s activities.
As per the recent regulatory changes made by the government, now many commercial activities on Dubai mainland allow 100% foreign business ownership, eliminating the need of local sponsor. However, certain strategic sectors still require partnering with local sponsor.
After you submit the documents and approvals for license, you can expect to receive your Dubai mainland trade license within 3 to 5 business days. However, the time may vary based on your specific case.
A mainland business visa Dubai is a legal permit issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to individuals allowing them to live, work and conduct their business activities legally in the Emirate.
The staring price of Dubai mainland trade license can be around AED 17,900* for professional license. For mainland commercial license in Dubai, it can be AED 24,500*.
The Department of economic Development (DED) of Dubai is responsible for the licensing and registration of all the companies operating on mainland.
A Dubai mainland general trading license is meant for entrepreneurs who want to sell multiple products across different or same industries.
