Dubai Mainland License Cost 2026
Start Your Dubai Mainland Company at the Best Possible
◾ Unlimited visa eligibility
◾ 100% ownership for most activities
◾ Operate anywhere in Dubai & UAE
◾Quick setup with expert support
Price – From AED 9,950
Cost & Requirements of Dubai Mainland Company Formation
If you’re planning to start a new business or relocate your company to Dubai, understanding the cost of a Dubai Mainland license in 2026 is essential. The cost of setting up a Mainland company varies depending on several factors, including the type of DED license, number of visas, office space requirements, and additional government approvals.
Dubai remains a top destination for entrepreneurs due to its business-friendly regulations, strategic location, and low-tax environment. Most investors choosing to establish a company in the UAE typically compare two options:
UAE Free Zone Company
While both structures have their advantages, a Dubai Mainland license is the preferred choice for businesses seeking full access to the local UAE market, government contracts, and unrestricted commercial activities across Dubai and the UAE.
Understanding these cost elements in advance helps businesses plan accurately, control budgets, and avoid unexpected expenses during the setup process. VA Zone provides transparent pricing and expert guidance, ensuring you select the right license at the right cost with full regulatory compliance.
Benefits of Dubai Mainland Business Setup
A Dubai Mainland company offers several advantages that make it a preferred choice for entrepreneurs:
◾Freedom to operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE
◾Ability to trade directly with the local UAE market
◾100% foreign ownership for most professional and commercial activities
◾Eligibility to apply for unlimited employee visas (based on office size)
◾Ability to bid for government contracts
◾No restrictions on business expansion
With fewer ownership limitations and wider operational flexibility, Mainland businesses enjoy greater commercial opportunities than many other jurisdictions.
Dubai Mainland License Cost for Different Business Types
The cost of setting up a mainland company in Dubai can vary depending on the type of business license you choose. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand the cost differences:
Dubai Professional License Package
Starting from AED 15,050
Includes:
Project Management / Professional Activity License
1 Investor Visa Eligibility
Medical Test & Emirates ID
Up to 3–6 employee visa quotas (subject to MOHRE approval)
Family visa eligibility
Free company stamp
Free business email (Domain & Hosting)
WIO Bank account opening assistance
Complete documentation support
Excludes residence visas. DED voucher & Ejari approx. AED 4,000 (T&C apply).
Dubai Mainland LLC – Commercial License
Starting from AED 14,950
Includes:
DED Commercial License Government Fees
Up to 3–6 employee visa quotas
Investor visa eligibility
100% ownership
Free company stamp
Free business email (Domain & Hosting)
Digital bank account assistance
Free business logo
Basic accounting & invoicing software
No hidden charges
Excludes trade name fees, immigration card, visas, medical, Emirates ID & Ejari (approx. AED 11,000).
Dubai Mainland Trading License Package
Starting from AED 10,000 – AED 20,000
Includes:
DED Trading License (Commercial Activity Approval)
Business activity registration with the Dubai Economic Department
Initial approval from DED
Eligibility to trade across Dubai & the UAE Mainland
Up to 3–6 employee visa quotas (subject to MOHRE & office size)
Investor visa eligibility (additional charges apply)
Free company stamp
Trade license issuance support
Complete documentation assistance
Excludes: Office rent & Ejari, residence visas, medical test, Emirates ID, immigration card, trade name fees, and external government approvals (if applicable).
How Much Does a Dubai Mainland License Cost in 2026
| Cost Component | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Trading License | AED 10,000 – AED 20,000 |
| Professional License | AED 10,000 – AED 18,000 |
| Industrial License | AED 15,000 – AED 25,000+ |
| Office Space | AED 5,000 – AED 50,000 |
| Visa Cost (per visa) | AED 3,000 – AED 6,000 |
| Trade Name Registration | AED 620 – AED 2,000 |
| Annual Renewal | AED 10,000 – AED 25,000 |
| Translation & Notarization | AED 300 – AED 800 |
| Additional Approvals | AED 1,000 – AED 10,000 |
Visa Costs for Mainland Companies
The total visa cost for a Dubai Mainland company depends on the visa type, validity, medical test, Emirates ID, insurance, and processing speed. Below is a detailed breakdown for better clarity:
| Visa Type | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Investor Visa (2 years) | AED 5,000 – AED 7,000 |
| Employee Visa (per person) | AED 3,000 – AED 6,000 |
| Establishment Card | AED 1,000 – AED 2,000 |
Note:
The employee visa cost includes entry permit, status change, medical test, Emirates ID, and stamping. Prices may vary depending on nationality and visa duration.
Annual Renewal Fees for Dubai Mainland Companies
A Dubai Mainland license must be renewed annually to maintain the legal status of your business. The annual renewal cost depends on your license type, office space (Ejari), number of visas, and any additional regulatory approvals required for your activity.
| Renewal Component | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trading License Renewal | AED 10,000 – AED 25,000 |
| Professional License Renewal | AED 8,000 – AED 20,000 |
| Industrial License Renewal | AED 12,000 – AED 30,000 |
| Ejari (Office Lease Renewal) | AED 5,000 – AED 50,000 |
| Establishment Card Renewal | AED 1,000 – AED 2,000 |
| Employee / Investor Visa Renewal (per visa) | AED 3,000 – AED 6,000 |
Optional Add-ons and Services
| Service | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Corporate Bank Account Opening Assistance | AED 1,500 – AED 2,000 |
| VAT Registration (one-time) | AED 1,000 – AED 2,500 |
| Monthly Accounting & Bookkeeping | AED 1,000 – AED 2,500 per month |
| PRO Services (basic – per year) | AED 2,500 – AED 4,000 |
What’s Included with VA Zone Mainland Setup
When you choose VA Zone for Dubai Mainland company formation, you receive transparent pricing, end-to-end support, and complete regulatory compliance—from initial approval to license issuance and beyond.
✅ Dubai Mainland License Fees
All applicable Dubai Economic Department (DED) fees for issuing a professional or commercial Mainland license are included. VA Zone ensures your license is processed efficiently with no hidden charges.
✅ Corporate Local Sponsor / Local Service Agent (Where Required)
For activities that require a UAE national involvement, VA Zone provides a reliable corporate sponsor or local service agent, helping you reduce personal risk while maintaining full operational control of your business.
✅ Government Registration & Approvals
We handle the complete registration process with:
Dubai Economic Department (DED)
Dubai Chamber of Commerce
You receive your official trade license and registration certificates without delays.
✅ Immigration Card (Establishment Card)
Every Mainland company must register with the Immigration Department to sponsor visas. VA Zone arranges your Establishment Card, enabling you to legally apply for investor and employee residence visas.
✅ Free Virtual Dubai Office Address
To support your initial setup, VA Zone provides a virtual office address in Dubai, suitable for correspondence and preliminary compliance requirements.
✅Visa Eligibility & Processing Support
Your Mainland company becomes eligible to apply for:
Investor visas
Employee visas (based on office size & MOHRE approval)
Visa costs are charged separately and depend on the number of visas required.
✅Free VAT Consultation
VA Zone offers expert VAT consultation to assess whether your company meets FTA registration thresholds, ensuring proper compliance with UAE tax regulations from day one.
Factors Affecting Dubai Mainland License Cost
The Dubai Mainland license cost in 2025 is not fixed and varies based on multiple business-specific factors. Understanding these elements helps you plan accurately and avoid unexpected expenses.
Business Activity Type
The type of activity you choose—Trading, Professional, or Industrial—directly affects licensing fees, approval requirements, and ongoing compliance costs.
Office Size & Location
A physical office with Ejari is mandatory for Mainland companies. Office size and location impact both rental costs and the number of visas your company is eligible to apply for.
Number of Visas Required
Visa costs increase based on:
Number of employees
Investor visas
Office space allocation
Each additional visa adds government and processing fees.
Trade Name Registration
Trade name costs vary depending on:
Name availability
Use of foreign words
Restricted or premium terms
Additional Government Approvals
Certain business activities require approvals from external authorities such as:
Dubai Municipality
DHA, KHDA, or RTA (industry-specific)
These approvals may add to the total setup cost.
License Renewal Costs
Dubai Mainland licenses must be renewed annually, and renewal costs depend on:
License type
Ejari renewal
Visa renewals
Compliance status
Dubai Mainland vs. Free Zone: Cost Comparison
| Feature | Dubai Mainland | UAE Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| License Cost | AED 12,000 – AED 25,000 | AED 12,000 – AED 18,000 |
| Office Requirement | Physical office with Ejari | Flexi-desk / shared office |
| Visa Quota | Higher & scalable | Limited (usually 2–6) |
| Market Access | Entire UAE market | Mostly within Free Zone |
| Government Contracts | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Ownership | 100% (most activities) | 100% |
How to Reduce Dubai Mainland License Costs?
Opt for a shared or virtual office if you’re eligible
Choose activities that don’t require external approvals
Go for multi-year license options to get discounts
Work with a setup consultant to avoid unnecessary delays or penalties
📝 Final Thoughts: Is a Dubai Mainland License Worth It?
While Dubai Mainland license costs may be higher compared to free zones, the benefits far outweigh the costs. You get:
Full access to the UAE market
Unlimited visa quota
Eligibility for government contracts
Greater flexibility in choosing your office location
Ready to start your company in the Dubai Mainland with VA Zone?
VA Zone simplifies the process of setting up a DED-registered company in the Dubai Mainland. From paperwork and government approvals to cost-saving office spaces, we’ve got you covered.
📞 Get a Free Quote Today
📧 Email: info@vazone.ae
📱 Call/WhatsApp: +971 50 962 6046
🌐 Visit VA Zone
FAQs: Dubai Mainland License Cost
What is the Dubai Mainland license cost?
The average cost of a Dubai Mainland business license typically ranges from AED 12,500 to AED 25,000, depending on the business activity, company structure, office requirements, and number of visas required.
What factors affect the cost of a Dubai Mainland license?
Several factors influence the overall cost, including:
Type of business activity (Trading, Professional, Industrial)
Number of shareholders or partners
Number of investor and employee visas required
Office space and Ejari requirements
Local service agent or corporate sponsor (if applicable)
DED and other government approvals
Is the license fee the same for all types of Mainland businesses?
No. Dubai Mainland license fees vary based on whether the license is professional, commercial, or industrial, as well as the number of activities listed on the license.
How much does a Dubai Mainland trade license cost for a single-owner business?
For a sole establishment or single-owner company with zero or limited visa quota, costs can start from AED 12,500 and may increase based on office space, visa requirements, and additional approvals.
Are there any hidden costs when setting up a Mainland company in Dubai?
There can be additional costs, such as:
Office rent and Ejari registration
Trade name reservation fees
Initial approval charges
Immigration (Establishment) card fees
Visa processing and medical costs
Local service agent fees (for certain activities)
Working with a professional consultant helps avoid unexpected expenses.
Is there a cost difference between Dubai Mainland and Free Zone licenses?
Yes. Mainland licenses are generally more expensive upfront, but they offer greater flexibility, including unrestricted business locations, the ability to work with government entities, and full access to the UAE market.
Do I need a physical office to get a Dubai Mainland license?
Yes. A physical office space with a valid Ejari is mandatory for Dubai Mainland company formation. This is a key requirement set by the DED.
Can I get a Dubai Mainland license without renting an office?
No. Unlike some Free Zones, Dubai Mainland companies require office space. Even flexi-desk or shared offices must have a registered Ejari.
How much does it cost to renew a Dubai Mainland license in 2026?
Annual renewal costs usually range from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000, depending on license type, office rent, visa renewals, and compliance requirements.
Can I obtain a Dubai Mainland license with zero visa quota?
Yes. Zero-visa Mainland licenses are available and are usually more affordable. However, adding visas later will result in additional government and processing fees.
Are there any government offers or discounts for new businesses?
Yes, the Dubai Economic Department (DED) may offer discounted license packages for specific sectors or Emirati partnerships. Check the official DED website or consult a business setup expert.
How many visas can I get with a Dubai Mainland license?
The number of visas depends on your office size and business activity. Typically, a 100 sq ft office allows for 1–2 visas.
Can I pay for a Dubai Mainland license in installments?
Yes. Some business setup consultants and banks in Dubai offer easy installment plans or payment facilities.
Is it cheaper to get a Dubai Mainland license through a consultant?
It depends. While consultants charge a service fee, they often help reduce hidden costs, avoid fines, and speed up approvals, which can save money in the long run.
What are the government departments involved in issuing a Dubai Mainland license?
The main authorities include
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET/DED)
Dubai Municipality
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
Ministry of Labour (MOHRE)