Dubiz

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.

Dubai Mainland – Quick Introduction

Who We Are - Dubiz

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.

Types of Mainland Trade License Dubai

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:

Commercial license:

Do you plan to buy, sell, or trade goods and commodities in UAE or internationally? Then, you must get a commercial license

Examples:

  • Retailers & Wholesalers
  • Importers/Exporters
  • E-commerce
  • Real Estate
  • General Trading

Industrial license:

Is your business about industrial activities like manufacturing or assembling products? Then, you must obtain an industrial license.

Examples:

  • Food Production
  • Textile Manufacturing
  • Automobile Assembly
  • Chemical Manufacturing
  • Oil Manufacturing

Professional license:

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:

  • Legal Consultants
  • IT Consultants
  • Healthcare Professionals
  • Nutritionists
  • Cleaning Service Providers
  • Marketing Agencies

Get the most advantageous Dubai mainland license for your business by consulting our specialist.

Mainland License in Dubai

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.

Benefits of Dubai Mainland License

The best 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:
Unrestr thing icted market access - Across UAE and beyond
Government contracts - Bid for and work on government initiatives
Unlimited visas - Subject to office area
100% foreign ownership - For most of commercial activities
Greater business opportunities - 2000 plus allowed activities
No currency restrictions - Repatriate earnings freely

Dubai Mainland License - Cost Calculation

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.

Some factors that may impact your Dubai mainland license cost:

  • Nature of business activity

  • Office size and location

  • Number of visas needed

  • Additional permit applications

  • Type of legal structure of business

Dubiz Top Best-Selling Mainland Packages

Simplifying the mainland business setup in Dubai, our comprehensive license packages are business friendly and cover all the essential needs of entrepreneurs:

Dubai Mainland Professional License

AED 17,900*

  • Initial Approval & Tradename Registration 
  • Memorandum Of Association
  • Company Incorporation
  • PRO Services Inc. VAT
  • Establishment Card & Investor Visa
  • Medical Test, Emirates ID & Status Change
Select Plan

T&Cs apply*

Dubai Mainland Commercial License

AED 24,500*
Value

  • Initial Approval & Tradename Registration 
  • Memorandum Of Association 
  • Company Incorporation
  • PRO Services Inc. VAT
  • Establishment Card & Investor Visa
  • Medical Test, Emirates ID & Status Change
  • Tax Consultation & Bank Account Assistance
Select Plan

T&Cs apply*

Breakdown of Mainland License Cost in 2025

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:

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.

Documentation Checklist for Mainland Business License

You must submit the following paperwork to the relevant authority to obtain your trade license in Dubai mainland:
Detailed business plan
Passport copy of investor/shareholder
Visa copy of investor/shareholder, if any
Passport sized photographs
License application form
Office lease agreement
Name approval certificate
Memorandum of Association
Any additional document as asked

Dubai Mainland License Process

Here is the overview of steps for obtaining a business license in Dubai mainland:

1

Business activity

Choose from DED's approved list of activities.
2

Trade name

Select and register a name for your business.
3

Initial approval

Secure a no-objection certificate from the DED.
4

Office space

Get the tenancy contract for the office space.
5

Additional approvals

Obtain specialized permits if required.
6

License request

Submit the documents for business license to DED.

Dubai Mainland Business Setup with Dubiz

Get to know your costs and start today!

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:
  • A team of multilingual experts
  • Affordable and full-range packages
  • Transparent communication throughout the setup process
  • Guidance from start to finish

Get a free consultation with our mainland business setup expert today!

FAQs on Dubai Mainland License

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.