The UAE has long been a preferred destination for entrepreneurs and global investors, thanks to its business-friendly environment, strategic location, and robust infrastructure. Among the different licensing options available in the country, the Dubai Mainland License stands out for its flexibility and wide market reach.

If you’re planning to start a business in Dubai and want to operate both within the UAE and internationally, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the benefits, process, cost, and requirements for obtaining a Dubai Mainland License.

What Is a Dubai Mainland License?

A Dubai Mainland License is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai and allows you to conduct business throughout Dubai and the rest of the UAE without any geographical restrictions. Unlike Free Zone licenses that limit your operations to designated areas, a mainland license gives you access to the entire UAE market, along with the freedom to expand globally.

It’s suitable for a wide range of businesses including:

• Retail stores

• Construction companies

• Consultancies

• Restaurants and cafes

• Manufacturing units

• E-commerce businesses

• Healthcare and education services

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Types of Mainland Licenses in Dubai

The DED issues different types of mainland licenses based on the nature of your business. These include:

1. Commercial License

Issued for businesses engaged in buying and selling goods or services, such as trading companies, logistics, and retail.

2. Professional License

Suitable for service-oriented businesses like consultancy firms, IT services, law firms, and other skilled professions.

3. Industrial License

Granted to businesses involved in manufacturing or industrial activities, such as factories or production units.

4. Tourism License

Required for businesses operating in the travel and tourism sector, including travel agencies and tour operators

Key Benefits of Dubai Mainland License

Here’s why the Dubai Mainland License is considered one of the best options for entrepreneurs:

✅ Full Market Access

Operate freely across Dubai, all other Emirates, and international markets. No limitations on location, unlike free zones.

✅ 100% Foreign Ownership

Following the UAE’s new business reforms, many activities now allow full foreign ownership without needing a local Emirati sponsor.

✅ Unlimited Employee Visas

Mainland businesses can hire an unlimited number of employees, depending on the size of their office space.

✅ Government Projects

Mainland companies can bid for and work on lucrative UAE government tenders and contracts.

✅ Flexibility to Open Multiple Branches

You can open several branches throughout the UAE under the same trade name.

✅ Office Anywhere in Dubai

No restrictions on business location – you can choose the best commercial area based on your target audience and budget.

Steps to Get a Dubai Mainland License

Getting a Dubai Mainland License is a structured process but much smoother with expert guidance. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Choose Business Activity

Select your primary and secondary activities from the DED list. This determines the type of license you need.

2. Decide Legal Structure

Choose the legal entity that best suits your business. Common options include:

• Sole Establishment

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)

• Civil Company

• Branch of a Foreign Company

3. Reserve Trade Name

Reserve a unique business name that complies with DED naming conventions. Avoid names that are offensive, religious, or include abbreviations (unless licensed).

4. Apply for Initial Approval

Get initial clearance from DED to confirm they have no objection to you starting the business.

5. Rent Office Space

Leasing physical office space is mandatory for mainland companies. The office must meet the minimum size requirement based on visa quota.

6. Draft & Notarize MOA

For LLCs, prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and get it notarized at a public notary.

7. Submit Documents

Submit all required documents to the DED, including copyright copies, tenancy contract (Ejari), MOA, and initial approval certificate.

8. Pay Fees & Collect License

Once approved, pay the licensing fees and collect your Dubai Mainland License from the DED.

Required Documents

Here’s a list of typical documents required for business setup in Dubai mainland:

• copyright copies of shareholders and managers

• copyright-size photographs

• Emirates ID (for residents)

• Ejari (tenancy contract)

• Trade name reservation certificate

• Initial approval certificate

• MOA (for LLC)

• NOC from sponsor (if applicable)

• Power of Attorney (if needed)

Cost of Dubai Mainland License

The cost of a Dubai Mainland License depends on several factors, including business activity, number of shareholders, office location, and visa quota. Here's a rough breakdown:

Component	Estimated Cost (AED)
Trade Name Registration	600 – 1,000
Initial Approval	100 – 300
License Issuance Fee	10,000 – 15,000
Office Rent (Ejari)	10,000 – 30,000+
MOA Drafting & Notarization	2,000 – 4,000
Government Fees & Service Charges	2,000 – 5,000

 

Total Estimated Cost: AED 20,000 – AED 40,000+
(Note: Costs may vary based on business type, visa needs, and location.)

Renewal of Dubai Mainland License

Your license must be renewed annually. The renewal process includes:

• Renewing the office lease (Ejari)

• Paying the renewal fee to DED

• Submitting updated documents if needed

Late renewals may incur penalties or suspension of operations.

FAQs – Dubai Mainland License

❓ Can I own 100% of my mainland business in Dubai?

Yes. As per the new laws, many professional and commercial activities allow 100% foreign ownership without a local sponsor.

❓ Do I need a physical office for a mainland company?

Yes. Having a physical office space is mandatory, and visa allocation depends on the size of your office.

❓ How long does it take to get the license?

With all documents ready, it typically takes 5–7 working days to complete the licensing process.

❓ Can I apply for multiple visas?

Yes, you can apply for employee and investor visas based on your office size and business activity.