Dubai Mainland License Cost 2025

Dubai Mainland License Cost 2025 – Full Breakdown

How much does setting up a Dubai Mainland company in 2025 cost? Here’s a transparent look at every significant cost you should expect when applying for a DED license in Dubai, including licensing, visa fees, and renewal charges.
Begin by explaining that the Dubai Mainland License cost varies based on the type of license, required visas, office space, and additional approvals. Emphasize that understanding this helps businesses plan better and avoid surprises.

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:

🔹 Professional License in Dubai Mainland (e.g., IT, Consultancy)

If you’re planning to offer services such as IT consultancy, marketing, or legal advisory, you’ll need a Dubai mainland professional license.

Estimated Cost: AED 30,000 – AED 40,000
Ownership: 100% expat ownership is allowed
Ideal For: Freelancers, consultants, and service providers

🔹 Commercial License in Dubai Mainland (e.g., Trading, Retail)

This license is ideal for businesses involved in trading, retail, or general commerce.

Estimated Cost: AED 35,000–AED 60,000
Ownership: May require a local service agent or sponsor
Ideal For: Trading companies, eCommerce businesses, supermarkets

🔹 Industrial License in Dubai Mainland (e.g., Manufacturing, Production)

Businesses involved in manufacturing or industrial activities must obtain an industrial license.

Estimated Cost: AED 50,000+
Requirements: Requires a physical warehouse, industrial approvals, and environmental compliance
Ideal For: Factories, production units, and industrial ventures

Cost of Setting Up a Dubai Mainland Company in 2025

Component	Estimated Cost (AED)
Trade Name Reservation	620
Initial Approval	120
Memorandum of Association (MOA) Drafting & Notarization	1,500-2,000
DED License Fee (depends on activity)	10,000-15,000
Chamber of Commerce Fee	1,200-3,000
Office Rent/Ejari (annual)	15,000+ (varies by size/location)
Corporate Service Provider Fee (if applicable)	5,000-7,500

Note: The total setup cost typically ranges between AED 20,000 and AED 30,000, depending on your activity type and office location.

Visa Costs for Mainland Companies

Visa Type	Cost (AED)
Investor Visa (valid 2 years)	5,000-7,000
Employee Visa (per person)	1,000-1,500 per person
1,000-2,000	1,000 – 1,500 per person
Establishment Card	1,000 – 2,000

Factors Affecting Dubai Mainland License Cost

1. Business Activity Type

Commercial and professional licenses vary in cost. Regulated activities (like medical, food, or transport) often require additional approvals.

2. Number of Visas Required

More visas mean higher fees. Each employee/investor visa adds costs related to medical tests, Emirates ID, and labor contracts.

3. Office Space Requirements

Dubai mainland businesses are required to rent a physical office. The size of the office determines your visa quota. Shared office (Ejari-compliant) costs start from AED 15,000/year.

4. Need for a Local Sponsor

If your business activity requires local ownership (some commercial activities still do), you may need a UAE national sponsor, which typically incurs an annual fee of AED 10,000–25,000.

Annual Renewal Fees

Item	Cost (AED)
Trade License Renewal	750-1,000
Ejari Renewal (Office Rent)	15,000+
Immigration Card Renewal	750–1,000
Establishment Card Renewal	10,000-13,000

Pro Tip: Always renew before your license expires to avoid late penalties (up to AED 5,000).

Optional Add-ons and Services

Service	Estimated Fee (AED)
Corporate Bank Account Opening Assistance	1,500-2,000
VAT Registration	1,000-2,500 per month
Monthly Accounting & Bookkeeping	1,000–2,500 per month
PRO Services (per year)	2,500-4,000

Dubai Mainland vs. Free Zone: Cost Comparison

Feature	Mainland	Free Zone
License Cost	AED 12,000-18,000	AED 12,000–18,000
Office Requirement	Physical office required	Flexi-desk allowed
Visa Quota	Higher, flexible	Limited (2 to 6)
Market Access	Entire UAE	AED 10,000-15,000

📌 If you need full UAE market access and want to expand your workforce, the Mainland is the better option.

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

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FAQs: Dubai Mainland License Cost 2025

What is the Dubai Mainland license cost in 2025?

The average cost of a Dubai Mainland business license in 2025 ranges from AED 12,500 to AED 25,000, depending on the business activity, company structure, and number of visas required.

What factors affect the cost of a Dubai Mainland license in 2025?

Key factors include

Type of business activity

Number of shareholders

Number of visas required

Office space requirements (Ejari)

Local service agent (for certain licenses)

DED and government approvals

Is the license fee the same for all types of businesses in Dubai Mainland?

No. Costs vary based on whether it's a professional, commercial, or industrial license and the type of activity listed on the license.

How much does a Dubai Mainland trade license cost for a single-owner business in 2025?

For a sole establishment with no visa quota, the cost can start from AED 12,500, but can go higher based on other add-ons.

Are there any hidden costs in getting a Mainland license in Dubai?

Yes. Additional costs may include:

Office rent (Ejari)

Initial approval fees

Name reservation fees

Immigration card fees

Visa processing costs

Local service agent fees (if applicable)

Is there a difference in cost between Mainland and Free Zone licenses in Dubai?

Yes. Mainland licenses are generally more expensive but offer greater flexibility, like no restrictions on business locations and access to government projects.

Do I need an office to get a Mainland license in 2025?

Yes. A physical office with an Ejari contract is mandatory for Dubai Mainland businesses, unlike Free Zone setups.

Can I get a Dubai Mainland license with no office space in 2025?

No, office space (even a flexi-desk) with a valid Ejari is required to apply for a mainland license.

How much does it cost to renew a Dubai Mainland license in 2025?

Renewal fees are typically similar to initial setup costs, ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 15,000, excluding visa or Ejari renewals.

Can I get a Dubai Mainland license with zero visa quota?

Yes, it's possible. Zero-visa licenses are often more affordable, but adding visas later will incur extra fees.

Are there any government offers or discounts for new businesses in 2025?

Yes. In 2025, 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.