How to Get a Dubai Mainland License?

Dubai is one of the world’s fastest-growing business hubs, attracting entrepreneurs and investors from across the globe. Setting up a business in Dubai mainland offers access to a large local market, legal recognition with government entities, and flexibility to operate anywhere in the UAE.

To get started, you’ll need to take several key steps, such as selecting your business activity, choosing a company structure, reserving a trade name, and budgeting for setup costs. For example, a trading company will have different licensing fees compared to a professional service company.

Whether you are starting a trading company, professional service, or industrial business, this guide will help you navigate the setup process with confidence.

A mainland license allows companies to operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE without geographical restrictions. It is issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and is suitable for businesses that want a physical presence in Dubai and direct access to the local market.

With a mainland license, businesses can engage with government entities, work with clients across all emirates, and open corporate bank accounts. It also allows hiring employees of any nationality without restrictions.

Mainland licenses cover a wide range of activities, including:

• Trading and commercial businesses
• Professional services and consultancy
• Industrial and manufacturing activities
• Tourism-related operations

Obtaining a mainland license ensures your business is legally recognized, fully compliant with UAE regulations, and ready to operate anywhere in Dubai.

Note: Since the 2021 amendments, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in almost all activities in Dubai mainland.

Types of Mainland Licenses in Dubai

Dubai mainland businesses require a license based on the type of activity. The main types include:

• Commercial License: For trading businesses. Allows buying, selling, and importing goods within the UAE.
• Professional License: For professionals, consultants, and service providers. Covers activities like IT services, marketing, education, and consultancy.
• Industrial License: For manufacturing and production businesses. Permits factories and industrial units to operate legally.
• Tourism License: For travel, hospitality, and tourism-related activities. Covers travel agencies, hotels, and tour operators.

Some additional/specialized license types in the Dubai mainland are:

• E-commerce License: For businesses operating online or selling products and services through digital platforms.
• Freelance Permit / License: Allows individual professionals to operate legally in their specific field without forming a full company.
• Specialized Service Licenses: Required for regulated sectors like medical clinics, education centers, food establishments, or security services.
• Branch of a Foreign Company License: For foreign companies establishing a branch office in the Dubai mainland.

Selecting the right company set-up license ensures smooth registration, compliance with regulations, and long-term business stability.

Not sure which license suits your business? Safe Ledger experts can guide you through the right choice, handle paperwork, and ensure a fast setup!

Applying for a Dubai mainland trade license involves several clear steps. Following the correct process ensures faster approval and legal compliance. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

• Decide on the activity that matches your business goals.
• Check the approved activity list provided by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Step 2: Select a Legal Structure

• Choose the company type: LLC, sole proprietorship, civil company, branch office, or professional license.
• The structure affects ownership, liability, and license requirements.

Example: The most common structure is a Limited Liability Company (LLC), suitable for commercial and industrial activities. Sole proprietorships are for individuals, while branch offices are for existing foreign or UAE companies expanding operations.

Reserve Trade Name

• Select a unique trade name for your business.
• Reserve it through the DET to ensure it is approved and available.

Obtain Initial Approval

• Apply for initial approval from the DET.
• This confirms that the government allows you to start the proposed activity.

Draft MOA and LSA Agreement (if required)

• Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA) outlining ownership and business objectives.
• Professional licenses may require a Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement.

Secure Office Space

• Rent a physical office space in the Dubai mainland.
• Register the tenancy contract with Ejari.

Submit Documents and Pay Fees

• Submit all required documents, including passport copies, MOA, approvals, and tenancy contract.
• Pay the applicable license fees to the DET.

Collect Your License

• After verification, receive your Dubai Mainland License.
• Once issued, your business can legally operate across the UAE mainland.

Obtain Approvals from Other Government Authorities (if required)

Certain activities like healthcare, education, food, or construction need extra approvals from relevant authorities (e.g., DHA, MOE, Dubai Municipality).

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Once the license is issued, you need a corporate bank account to manage business finances, receive payments, and meet regulatory requirements.

Apply for Employee Visas

Based on your office size and license type, apply for visas for shareholders, employees, and dependents.

Set Up Accounting and Compliance Systems

Maintain proper accounting records, bookkeeping, and compliance with UAE VAT regulations.

Looking to simplify your application process? Apply for a mainland license in Dubai with Safe Ledger!

Key documents required to verify the company’s legitimacy and ensure compliance to start a business in Dubai mainland include:

• Passport copies of all shareholders and partners: Required for identity verification and official record keeping.
• Visa copy and Emirates ID (if applicable): For UAE residents, copies of valid visas and Emirates IDs must be submitted.
• Trade name reservation certificate: Confirms that the chosen business name has been approved and reserved by the DET.
• Initial approval certificate: Official permission from the DET allowing you to proceed with company registration.
• Memorandum of Association (MOA): A legal document defining the company’s objectives, ownership structure, and shareholding pattern.
• Tenancy contract with Ejari registration: Proof of a physical office in the Dubai mainland, registered with the Ejari system.
• Application form from DET: Standard license application form required for all mainland setups.
• Board resolution (for corporate shareholders): Necessary if another company is an investor.
• Passport-sized photos of shareholders: Still required in many company setups.
• Approvals from other government authorities (if required): Necessary for regulated activities such as healthcare, education, food services, or transport.

Additional documents that may be required are:

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor: Required if a shareholder or partner is on a UAE employment visa under another sponsor.
• Bank reference letter: Sometimes requested to verify the financial credibility of shareholders.
• Professional qualifications or licenses: Needed for specialized business activities like consultancy, healthcare, education, or engineering.
• Power of attorney (if applicable): A POA is required if someone else is applying on your behalf.
• Business plan or project proposal: Occasionally requested for specialized licenses or high-value activities.
• Insurance documents: Required for certain sectors like health services, transport, or industrial activities.

By ensuring all these documents are complete and accurate, applicants can significantly reduce delays, meet regulatory requirements, and secure their Dubai mainland license efficiently.

The total cost of the Dubai Mainland license varies based on factors such as business activity, company structure, office location, and additional approvals required. Below is a detailed breakdown of the typical expenses:

Get a precise cost estimate for your business today: Contact us.

Obtaining a Dubai mainland license comes with several advantages that make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs and investors. These benefits include:

• Access to the Local UAE Market: Mainland licenses allow businesses to operate anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE. You can work directly with clients, government entities, and corporate partners without restrictions.
• Flexibility in Business Activities: Businesses can engage in multiple activities under a single license, provided they are approved by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
• Hiring Freedom: Companies can employ staff of any nationality without limitations, making it easier to build a skilled workforce.
• Eligibility for Government Contracts: Only mainland-licensed companies can bid for government projects and tenders, opening new revenue opportunities.
• Ability to Open Corporate Bank Accounts: Mainland licenses make it simpler to open local corporate bank accounts, essential for smooth financial operations.
• Business Expansion Opportunities: Mainland companies can open multiple branches or offices across Dubai and other emirates without losing their legal status.
• Professional Credibility: A DET-issued license enhances business credibility, attracting clients, investors, and partners.

By gaining a mainland license, businesses gain legal recognition, operational flexibility, and growth opportunities across Dubai and the UAE.

Obtaining a Dubai Mainland License can be a smooth process if planned carefully. However, businesses often face several challenges during registration and setup. Understanding these challenges and their solutions can save time, reduce costs, and ensure compliance.

1. Navigating regulatory requirements: Mainland licenses require strict compliance with DET rules and activity-specific approvals. Missing steps can delay approval or result in penalties. 

Work with a business consultant or legal advisor to ensure all documents and approvals are in order.

2. Managing setup costs: Office rent, licensing fees, visas, and professional services can add up quickly. 

Plan a detailed budget, consider shared office spaces, and start lean to reduce expenses.

3. Choosing the right business activity: Selecting an incorrect or unapproved activity can lead to rejection.

Check the DET activity list carefully and consult experts to match your business objectives.

4. Securing office space: A physical office is mandatory for mainland licenses, but prime locations can be costly or fully booked. 

Explore co-working spaces or emerging areas that meet Ejari requirements.

5. Finding skilled staff: Hiring qualified professionals or licensed employees can be challenging. 

Offer competitive packages, provide training, and use professional recruitment channels.

6. Keeping up with regulatory changes: Dubai frequently updates licensing rules, foreign ownership laws, and escrow regulations. 

Stay informed through DET announcements and professional advisors.

7. Delays in government approvals: Some applications may take longer due to backlogs or additional scrutiny.

Submit complete and accurate documents, follow up regularly with the DET, and consider hiring a setup consultant to expedite the process.

8. Limited availability of certain business activities: Some specialized activities may require additional approvals or may have restrictions on foreign ownership.

Explore alternate but related business activities or set up a joint venture with a local partner where required.

9. Visa quota limitations: The number of employee visas you can apply for depends on office space and license type.

Plan staffing requirements carefully and choose an office size that supports your visa needs.

10. Bank account setup issues: Opening a corporate bank account can be challenging due to strict documentation requirements.

Prepare all required documents, choose a bank familiar with mainland businesses, and consider professional guidance.

11. Language and cultural barriers: Doing business in Dubai requires understanding diverse client expectations.

Hire multilingual staff, provide cultural sensitivity training, and adapt services to local market practices.

By anticipating these obstacles and taking proactive steps, entrepreneurs can navigate the licensing process efficiently and start their business operations without unnecessary delays.

A Dubai mainland license opens doors to operate legally across the UAE and access a wide range of business opportunities. By understanding the application process, required documents, and costs, entrepreneurs can smoothly start a business in the Dubai mainland. Proper planning ensures compliance, credibility, and long-term business growth in Dubai’s competitive market.