Mainland License in Dubai
Table of Contents
How to Get a Mainland License in Dubai Without the Headache
Setting up a business in the Dubai Mainland offers unmatched market access and credibility. But many entrepreneurs get overwhelmed with paperwork, approvals, and ever-changing regulations. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the simplified, streamlined, stress-free process.
Starting a company in the Dubai Mainland can feel like a maze. With government approvals, documentation, and office requirements, it’s easy to get lost. But with the proper guidance, it’s much simpler than you think.
This guide covers every step, from choosing a business activity to getting final approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
👉 Follow the whole step-by-step process here to make your business journey hassle-free.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Your business activity determines the license type you need and the documentation involved. Refer to the DED Activity List to find the exact match for your services or products.
Pro Tip: Select a scalable activity that allows for future expansion. For example, opting for "General Trading" gives you the flexibility to add more goods later.
Step 2: Reserve Your Trade Name
A unique business name must be reserved through DED. It must not violate public morals, be registered, or contain religious/political references.
- Cost: AED 620
- Reserve Name on DED Portal
Pro Tip: Have 2–3 backup names ready if your first choice is taken.
Step 3: Apply for Initial Approval
Initial approval is a green light from the Dubai government that they have no objection to your business setup. No office lease is needed at this stage.
- Valid For: 6 months
- Documents Needed: Passport copy, visa/residency page, business activity
Pro Tip: Apply for initial approval and name reservation together to save time.
Step 4: Draft and Notarize the MOA
Your Memorandum of Association (MOA) outlines the ownership structure and business operations. It’s essential for LLCs and partnerships.
- Where: Dubai Public Notary
- Languages: Arabic and English
- Cost: AED 1,500–2,000
Pro Tip: VA Zone can draft your MOA to ensure it's legally sound and DED-compliant.
Step 5: Secure Office Space and Ejari
DED requires a physical office space to issue your trade license. This proves your business has a legal presence in Dubai.
- Ejari Registration Required
- Average Rent: AED 15,000 and up per year (based on location and size)
- See Office Rent Cost Table
Pro Tip: Start with a shared office or flexi-desk if your budget is tight.
Step 6: Submit Final Documents and Receive License
Once you have completed all prior steps, submit your documents to DED for final approval.
Documents to Submit:
- Trade Name Reservation Certificate
- Initial Approval
- MOA
- Ejari
- Passport and Visa Copies
License Issued By: Department of Economic Development (DED) Timeline: 2–3 working days after final submission
Bonus: Post-License Steps
Once your license is approved, you can:
- Apply for investor or employee visas
- Open a corporate bank account
- Register for VAT (if applicable)
Contact VA Zone if you want help with post-license services.
Documents You’ll Need
Passport copies of all shareholders
Visa page/residence copy
Emirates ID (if applicable)
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if employed)
Trade name reservation certificate
Initial approval receipt
Notarized MOA
Ejari (tenancy contract)
Why Choose VA Zone?
VA Zone simplifies the licensing process by handling the following:
- Trade name checks
- Document preparation
- Approvals and submissions
- Office space assistance
We ensure you’re set up quickly, legally, and affordably.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Dubai Mainland license doesn’t have to be stressful. You can launch your UAE business in less than 10 days with the proper steps and expert support.