VAZONE Expert Guide

Dubai Mainland License

A Dubai Mainland license allows businesses to deal freely within and outside the UAE. Unlike free zones, it offers no trading limits, access to government contracts, and 100% foreign ownership for many activities. The procedure involves choosing a business type, registering with Dubai’s Department of Economy, securing office space, and obtaining approvals. While it may seem complicated, expert service makes it easy by handling the paperwork and legal steps and providing a smooth setup.

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Dubai Mainland License: Expert Guidance & Everything You Need to Know

What does it take to open your business in Dubai? While formal permission is essential, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Obtaining a Dubai Mainland license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) is a game-changer for your business.

This DED license doesn’t just fulfill a basic legal requirement — it opens doors to the entire emirate, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth, partnerships, and success.

But why is this license such a game-changer? Beyond necessity, it’s a powerful tool for entrepreneurs and investors looking to make an impact in Dubai’s dynamic and competitive market. Whether planning a startup or expanding your operations, a business setup in Dubai mainland gives you flexibility, full access to the UAE market, and the chance to bid on government projects.

Furthermore, it’s your gateway to participating in government programs, making it an essential asset for any business aiming to thrive in this fast-growing financial hub. A UAE business license, especially one issued under the mainland jurisdiction, isn’t just a permit — it’s your key to unlocking Dubai’s full economic potential.

Obtaining a Mainland license is one of Dubai’s most essential elements of company formation. This article will walk you through the process, benefits, documents required, and everything else you need to know for a successful setup.

A Dubai Mainland License: What Is It?

Dubai Mainland License

A Dubai mainland license is a passport to company flexibility, not just a trade license. Unlike free zone licenses, it permits companies to operate across Dubai and beyond. This kind of license is perfect for businesses wanting to grow because it allows professional services, commercial trade, and other business operations domestically and abroad.

Principal Advantages of a Dubai Mainland License

Principal Advantages of a Dubai Mainland License infographics

Choosing a mainland license in Dubai is a popular option for many firms due to the following benefits:

  • Unhindered Business Activities

Mainland businesses have broad market access and commercial freedom, enabling them to operate anywhere in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, and abroad.

  • Robust Market Presence

Companies that hold a mainland license can open physical locations throughout the United Arab Emirates, which allows for brand extension and national expansion.

  • Obtaining Government Contracts

Unlike those in free zones, businesses on the mainland can bid on government projects, leading to high-value possibilities and profitable contracts.

  • No restrictions on currency

With no currency limitations, mainland businesses can freely transfer capital and profits, guaranteeing seamless financial transactions inside and outside the United Arab Emirates.

  • No Limit on Visa Quota

As they grow, mainland-licensed businesses can get as many visas as they want, albeit they might need to buy more office space.

  • Advantages in terms of money and taxes

With no minimum capital requirements and tax savings equal to those enjoyed by free zone companies, Dubai mainland businesses are an affordable choice for business owners.

Curious about the full cost? See a full cost breakdown here.

Dubai Mainland License Types

Dubai Mainland License Types infographics

Depending on the nature of their business operations, companies operating on the mainland of Dubai need a particular license. The Department of Economic Development (DED) issues four primary categories of mainland licenses, each with unique objectives, prerequisites, and rules.

1. A license for industry

An industrial license aims to enable companies to carry out production, processing, packing, manufacturing, and other industrial operations. This group includes businesses that turn raw materials into completed or semi-finished goods.

Eligibility:

Factories and manufacturing facilities use natural or synthetic raw materials to create commodities.

Sectors that deal with product packaging, assembling, and segregation.

Enterprises that manufacture machinery, food processing, textiles, or metal fabrication.

Regulatory Conditions:

Getting approval from the relevant ministries, like the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) and the Dubai Municipality, may be required.

Businesses must abide by environmental safety, waste management, and industrial safety rules.

Sometimes, adherence to fire safety rules and labor laws is required.

2. Commercial License

Goal:

Businesses engaged in general commerce, import/export, distribution, and trade must possess a commercial license. It allows companies to buy, sell, and distribute items in Dubai.

Requirements:

Trading in General Companies:

Businesses that manufacture a range of goods, including electronics, textiles, and household goods.

Specialized trade companies specialize in a specific product category, such as jewels, medical equipment, or automobiles.

Retail firms:

Department stores, supermarkets, online retailers, and other firms that deal directly with customers.

Construction and real estate firms are engaged in building construction, real estate development, leasing, and property management.

Regulatory Conditions:

  • The Department of Economic Development (DED) oversees business license issuance and renewal.
  • Businesses must follow UAE regulations about fair trade, consumer protection, and commerce.
  • Additional permissions are needed for import/export businesses by customs officers and other government authorities.

3. Professional License Purpose:

People and businesses offering specialized services are given professional licenses based on experience, technological know-how, or professional understanding.

Qualifications:

  1. Consulting services include financial consultants, business strategists, management consultants, and legal experts.
  2. Creative services include writers, artists, photographers, digital marketers, and graphic designers.
  3. IT specialists, software developers, architects, and mechanical and civil engineers are examples of technical and engineering services.

Additional Professional Services:

Wellness coaches, personal trainers, teachers, doctors, auditors, and accountants.

Regulatory Requirements:

  1. Professional licenses generally have lower setup costs compared to industrial and commercial licenses.
  2. Applicants must submit proof of qualifications, such as degrees, certifications, or experience in their respective fields.
  3. Some professions (e.g., legal, healthcare, and finance) require additional approvals from industry-specific regulatory bodies like the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the UAE Central Bank.

4. Tourism License

Goal: Companies operating in the travel and hospitality sector, including travel agencies, tour operators, and event planners, must hold a tourism license.

Qualifications:

  1. Inbound Travel Management: Businesses that plan sightseeing, cultural outings, and local tours in Dubai.
  2. Companies that provide domestic and overseas tour packages, including airline tickets and visa assistance, are known as outbound travel packages.
  3. Event management companies organize conferences, weddings, concerts, exhibits, and corporate events.

Regulatory Requirements:

  • The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) issues and monitors tourism licenses.
  • Companies must comply with tourism regulations, maintain high service standards, and ensure customer safety.
  • Additional permits may be needed for operating specific types of tours, such as desert safaris, yacht rentals, or adventure tourism activities.

Each license type has a different cost. Check the complete cost breakdown

Organizations Operating Under a Dubai Mainland License

Organizations Operating Under a Dubai Mainland License

Different legal structures that address particular requirements, ownership preferences, and liability issues can be used to form businesses on the Dubai Mainland. The primary business forms that can be used with a Dubai Mainland License are as follows:

1. Local and International Companies’ Branch Offices

Goal: By opening a branch office, an established business with headquarters in the UAE or elsewhere can have a presence on the Dubai Mainland. This structure is perfect for companies wishing to grow while keeping connections to their parent company.

Important attributes:

  1. Carries out operations allowed by its initial License and functions as an extension of the parent corporation.
  2. They can participate in various business endeavors as long as they fit within the parameters of the parent company.
  3. Liabilities apply to the primary entity since it lacks a distinct legal personality from the parent corporation.

Regulatory Requirements:

The Department of Economic Development (DED) and the appropriate regulatory agencies must approve.

Foreign branch offices might need a Local Service Agent (LSA) to comply with UAE law and provide administrative support.

2. Civil Company Objective:

A civil company is a business entity that conducts professional and service-oriented operations. It can be used by physicians, engineers, consultants, and other professionals.

Crucial characteristics:

Enables experts from any nation to work together.

If there are no national partners in the UAE or GCC, a Local Service Agent (LSA) is needed. A UAE national is not necessary to be a shareholder, however.

Partners are jointly liable for the company’s deficits and liabilities.

Regulatory Requirements: Professional license laws require the company to be registered.

  1. It can be required to provide documentation of professional credentials and approvals from relevant authorities (such as the DHA for healthcare practitioners).

3. Single-Person LLC

A Single-Person Limited Liability Company (SP-LLC) aims to provide limited liability protection for business owners who are either individuals or corporate entities.

Important attributes:

  1. Controlled by a single person or business entity.
  2. Provides limited liability protection, which shields the owner’s assets from company debts.
  3. Able to carry out industrial and commercial operations.

Regulatory Conditions:

  1. Subject to adherence to UAE commercial rules and DED license requirements.
  2. To operate lawfully in Dubai, a business activity must be clearly defined.

4. Limited Liability Company (LLC)

For this reason, the most popular corporate structure in Dubai for foreign investors is an LLC. It is perfect for various sectors since it offers ownership and liability protection flexibility.

Important attributes:

  1. Requires two to fifty shareholders, each of whom is only liable for the amount of money they contributed to the business.
  2. In certain corporate ventures, foreign investors are permitted to own all of the company.
  3. Able to carry out professional, industrial, and commercial operations.
  4. It offers access to government contracts and a larger UAE market than businesses operating in free zones.

Regulatory Requirements:

  1. LLCs must be registered with the DED and adhere to UAE’s Company Law.
  2. Additional approvals from relevant authorities may be required depending on the business activity.

5. Sole Proprietorship

Purpose:

A sole proprietorship gives a person total control and ownership over a business they establish in their name. It works best for experts and independent contractors who provide specialized services and consulting.

Key Features:

  1. The owner retains 100% control of the business.
  2. Personal assets are not separated from business liabilities, meaning the owner is responsible for all debts.
  3. Can operate anywhere in the UAE and offer professional services.

Foreign Ownership Regulations:

  1. Foreign nationals can fully own a sole proprietorship for professional activities.
  2. However, a Local Service Agent (LSA) is required for licensing, legal compliance, and administrative support.

Regulatory Requirements:

  1. The business owner must have relevant qualifications and approvals from regulatory bodies.
  2. Sole proprietors offering specialized services (e.g., law, finance, healthcare) must obtain sector-specific permits.

Mainland vs. Free Zone License: What’s the Difference?

Mainland vs. Free Zone License: What’s the Difference? infographics

One of the most critical decisions when starting a business in the UAE is choosing between a mainland license and a free zone license. Each has unique advantages, and your choice should depend on your business goals, market access, and operational needs.

Here’s a detailed comparison to guide you:

Feature Mainland LicenseFree Zone License
Market Access✅ Can operate anywhere in the UAE and globally, including directly with the UAE market🔒 Restricted to Free Zone and international markets (mainland trade requires a local distributor or agent)
Ownership✅ 100% foreign ownership allowed for most activities (post-2021 reforms)✅ 100% foreign ownership
Government Contracts✅ Eligible to bid for government tenders and contracts❌ Not eligible for most government projects
Office Requirements🏢 Must have a physical office in Dubai or other emirates💼 Flexi-desk options are available in many Free Zones
Cost💸 Generally higher due to office rent and broader compliance💰 Often more cost-effective with package deals
Visa Quota🪪 Flexible visa quota based on office size🪪 Limited by Free Zone package or desk size
Regulatory Body🏛️ Department of Economic Development (DED)🏢 Respective Free Zone Authority
Customs & Import🚚 Can import/export without restrictions within the UAE🚫 Customs duties apply when trading with the Mainland

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose Mainland if you want to:

    • Trade across the UAE directly

    • Work with government entities.

    • Scale your business with fewer restrictions.

    • Set up a retail, services, or construction company.

  • Choose Free Zone if you:

    • Plan to trade internationally or online only.

    • Need a cost-effective solution with fewer physical requirements.

    • Don’t require access to government projects.

    • Want simplified setup and license packages.

VA Zone Can Help You Decide

Still unsure? VA Zone’s business setup consultants can assess your goals and help you pick the most suitable license structure. Whether you’re targeting local markets or global expansion, we’ll ensure your setup is fast, compliant, and strategically aligned.

Choosing the Right Business Structure

Choosing the Right Business Structure

Selecting the best business structure depends on several factors, including ownership preferences, liability concerns, and business activities. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a foreign investor, or a large corporation, Dubai Mainland offers diverse options to suit your business goals.
For expert guidance on setting up your Dubai Mainland business, contact VA Zone today and streamline your company registration process!

Steps to Set Up Your Business in Dubai Mainland-Mainland License Procedure

Steps to Set Up Your Business in Dubai Mainland-Mainland License Procedure

Setting up a business in the Dubai Mainland requires following a structured process to ensure compliance with local regulations. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you successfully establish your company:

1. Choose Your Business Activity and Structure

Business Activity:

  1. Select from over 1,500 approved business activities in the UAE.
  2. Ensure the chosen activity aligns with the Department of Economic Development (DED) regulations.

Business Structure:

  1. Decide on the best business structure based on ownership, liability, and operational needs. Options include
    1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)—Ideal for commercial businesses.
    2. Civil Company—Suitable for service-oriented and professional firms.
    3. Branch Office—For existing companies expanding into the Dubai Mainland.
    4. Sole Proprietorship—Ideal for single-owner firms offering professional services.

2. Trade Name Requirements for Registering Your Trade Name with DED:

The name ought to be original and adhere to DED’s naming guidelines.

Refrain from using derogatory names or words connected to political or religious organizations.

Acceptance and Enrollment:

  1. Send in the selected name for acceptance.
  2. Usually, the registration procedure takes three days.

3. Secure a Local Service Agent (LSA) (If Required)

  1. Certain companies need a UAE national as a Local Service Agent (LSA).
  2. Although it helps with government procedures and licensing, the LSA does not own shares.
  3. To guarantee seamless business operations, selecting the appropriate LSA is crucial.

4. Apply for a Dubai Mainland Trade License

Steps to Obtain a Trade License:

  1. Submit the application with DED for a Mainland Trade License.
  2. Ensure all required business activities are covered under the license.
  3. Required Documents:
    1. Passport copies of business owners/shareholders.
    2. DED-approved trade name certificate.
    3. Initial approval from DED and other relevant authorities (if needed).
    4. Office lease agreement or Ejari certificate.

5. Rent an Office Space

  1. Businesses must have a physical office address in the Dubai Mainland.
  2. Options include
    1. Flexi Desk—Cost-effective and suitable for startups.
    2. Shared Office—A more economical option with shared resources.
    3. Dedicated Office Space—Required for larger businesses with multiple employees.

6. Obtain Ejari for Office/Commercial Space

  1. Ejari (Arabic for “My Rent”) is RERA’s mandatory lease registration system.
  2. The Ejari certificate is required to obtain a business license from DED.
  3. Ensure the tenancy contract complies with Dubai’s real estate laws.

7. Prepare the Legal Documents

  1. Draft the Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Articles of Association (AoA).
  2. These documents define
    1. Business activities and operational guidelines.
    2. Shareholding structure and partner responsibilities.
    3. Profit and loss distribution between partners.

8. Pay Fees and Collect Your License

  1. Complete the necessary paperwork and pay the required government fees.
  2. Upon successful processing, collect your Dubai Mainland Trade License.
  3. This license allows your business to operate legally in the Dubai Mainland.

9. Open a Business Bank Account

  1. Once you obtain your trade license, you must open a corporate bank account.
  2. Required documents typically include
    1. Trade license copy.
    2. MoA and AoA.
    3. Shareholder passport copies.
    4. Office lease agreement.
  3. Many UAE banks offer digital banking solutions for quick setup.

Cost of a Dubai Mainland License in 2025– Full Breakdown

When setting up your company in Dubai Mainland, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is, “How much does a mainland license cost?” The total cost depends on various factors, such as business activity, visa requirements, and office space. Below is a detailed cost structure to help you plan your budget.

Estimated Mainland License Cost Breakdown:

ComponentEstimated Cost (AED)
Initial Trade Name Reservation620 – 720
Initial Approval from DED120
Trade License Issuance (1 Year)10,000 – 15,000
Local Service Agent Fee (if required)5,000 – 10,000
Office Rental / Ejari (Mandatory)15,000 – 50,000+
MoA (Memorandum of Association) Drafting1,000 – 2,500
Visa Costs (Per Person)3,500 – 7,000
Immigration Card & Establishment Card2,000 – 2,500
Medical & Emirates ID (Per Person)1,100 – 1,500

Cost of Obtaining a Dubai Mainland License

The total cost of obtaining a Dubai Mainland License depends on:

1. Type of License

  1. Commercial License (for trading businesses).
  2. Professional License (for consultancy and service businesses).
  3. Industrial License (for manufacturing and production businesses).

2. Business Activities

  1. Some activities require additional government approvals (e.g., healthcare, legal consultancy).

3. Business Structure

  1. LLCs have different cost structures compared to Sole Proprietorships or Branch Offices.

4. Local Service Agent (LSA) Fees

  1. If required, the LSA fee adds to the total business setup cost.

5. Office Space Rental

Costs are influenced by size, location, and leasing conditions.

Consult VA ZONE experts for a customized cost estimate and guidance based on the needs of your business.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Mainland License in Dubai?

Time is money—especially when you’re launching a new business. Fortunately, getting a Dubai Mainland license is a quick and efficient process, provided you have all your documents in order.

Typical Timeline

StageEstimated Duration
Initial Consultation & Activity Selection1 day
Trade Name Reservation1–2 working days
Initial Approval from DED1–2 working days
Office Space Lease & Ejari Registration1–3 working days
Final License Issuance1–2 working days

Total Estimated Time: 7 to 10 working days

This timeline can vary depending on the nature of your business activity, external approvals (if required), and how fast you can provide documentation.

Need it faster?

With VA Zone’s expert guidance, the entire process is streamlined. We handle:

  • Document preparation

  • Government approvals

  • Ejari registration

  • Final license issuance

Let us take the paperwork off your plate so you can focus on your launch.

Documents Required for Mainland License Setup in Dubai

Before starting your business journey, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork. Having the right documents in place ensures a smooth and timely license approval process.

Mandatory Documents

  1. Passport Copies
    For all shareholders/partners involved in the business.

  2. Visa Page or Residence Copy
    Required if the partner or manager holds a UAE residence visa.

  3. Emirates ID
    Applicable for UAE residents only.

  4. No Objection Certificate (NOC)
    Needed if the applicant is already sponsored by another company or individual.

  5. Trade Name Reservation Certificate
    Proof that your desired company name has been approved by DED.

  6. Initial Approval Certificate
    Indicates the Department of Economic Development has approved your business activity.

  7. Tenancy Contract and Ejari Certificate
    Shows your business has a physical address in compliance with DED regulations.

Pro Tip:

Double-check that all documents are valid, translated (if necessary), and up-to-date. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork is one of the most common causes of delays.

VA Zone Makes It Easy

We assist with collecting, reviewing, and submitting all the above documents, saving you time and avoiding costly mistakes.

Dubai Mainland License Renewal—Keep Your Business Compliant

Renewing your Dubai Mainland license is a vital part of maintaining your company’s legal status and ensuring continued operations in Dubai. Unlike some jurisdictions where licenses are renewed every few years, Dubai Mainland licenses must be renewed annually.

The Renewal Process for Your Dubai Mainland License:

The annual renewal process involves several important steps. Below is an overview of what to expect during the renewal:

Key Components of the Renewal Process:

  1. Tenancy Contract & Ejari Registration:

    • The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) requires businesses to maintain a valid tenancy contract with a registered office in Dubai.

    • Ejari registration is mandatory, ensuring that your office lease complies with the legal requirements. This step is essential for the license renewal.

  2. Renewal Fee Payment:

    • Upon receiving all necessary documents, the renewal fees are paid to the DED to process your license renewal. The fee varies based on the type of business activity and the office location.

  3. Document Submission:

    • Ensure all documents, such as your tenancy contract, visa documents, and Emirates ID, are updated and ready for submission.

    • If you have any employee or shareholder visa changes, those need to be processed and linked to your renewal.

  4. Visa and Immigration Updates:

    • Renewals often involve updating work visas and Emirates IDs for employees and shareholders, especially if there are any changes in personnel.

  5. Approval from Authorities:

    • VA Zone assists in handling the submission of all the required documents, approvals, and paperwork to the relevant government bodies, ensuring that your renewal is processed smoothly and without delays.

Timeline for Renewal:

The Dubai Mainland license renewal process typically takes 7 to 10 business days once all documents are submitted correctly. However, we recommend starting the renewal process at least 30 days before your license expiry date to avoid any disruptions to your business operations.

Why Choose VA Zone for Your Dubai Mainland License Renewal?

Renewing your license can be time-consuming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the various requirements. VA Zone simplifies the entire process by

  • Handling all your documentation

  • Updating your tenancy contracts and Ejari registration

  • Ensuring timely payments to DED

  • Managing visa and immigration updates

With our professional support, you can focus on running your business while we take care of all the administrative details.

Conclusion

Establishing a business in the Mainland of Dubai offers access to a vibrant and expanding economy and is a wise investment. Companies can create a significant presence in the UAE market by adhering to local legislation and completing the necessary registration procedures.
Obtaining a Dubai Mainland License may be a quick and easy procedure with professional assistance. VA Zone guarantees a hassle-free experience by helping with everything from company bank account establishment to trade license applications.

Need Expert Assistance?

VA Zone provides end-to-end solutions for Dubai Mainland Business Setup, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective licensing process.

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FAQs About Dubai Mainland License

Businesses can operate anywhere in the United Arab Emirates with a Dubai Mainland License, granting them unrestricted access to domestic and foreign markets. The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) is the one that issues it.

  1. 100% Foreign Ownership (for many activities).
  2. No corporate tax.
  3. No restrictions on trade within the UAE market.
  4. Unlimited visa eligibility based on office space size.
  5. Access to government contracts and tenders.

The most popular business structure for trading and providing services is the Limited Liability Company (LLC).

  1. A sole proprietorship is appropriate for companies with just one owner who provides expert services.
  2. Civil companies best serve professionals like doctors, lawyers, and engineers.
  3. Branch Office: For already-existing UAE businesses or international businesses growing in Dubai.
  1. Choose your business activity (from over 1,500 options).
  2. Select a business structure (LLC, Sole proprietorship, etc.).
  3. Register a trade name with DED.
  4. Secure a Local Service Agent (LSA) if required.
  5. Apply for initial approval from DED.
  6. Rent an office space (Flexi Desk, Shared Office, or Dedicated Office).
  7. Obtain Ejari for office lease registration.
  8. Draft legal documents (MoA & AoA).
  9. Pay license fees and collect your license.
  10. Open a business bank account.

The cost varies based on factors such as:

  1. Type of License (Commercial, Professional, or Industrial).
  2. Business activities and additional government approvals.
  3. Office space rental and Ejari registration.
  4. Local Service Agent (LSA) fees (if applicable).

For a personalized cost estimate, consult with VA Zone experts

Yes, for most business activities. Some still require local participation.

  1. No sponsor is required for most professional and service-based businesses.
  2. 100% foreign ownership is allowed in several sectors.
  3. Certain activities require a Local Service Agent (LSA) for licensing support.

Yes, unlike Free Zone enterprises restricted to certain areas, businesses with a Dubai Mainland License can operate without regard to geographic boundaries.

The procedure usually takes five to ten working days, depending on the type of business and permissions.

  1. The office space size affects how many visas are granted (for example, a dedicated office permits more visas than a Flexi Desk).
  2. UAE residency visas are available to employees and business owners.

Yes, with expert assistance from VA Zone, you can complete most steps online and remotely.

Yes, a real office space is required and must be registered with Ejari.