MAINLAND LICENSES

CHOOSE THE RIGHT DUBAI MAINLAND LICENSE

At Gulf Corporate Services, we bring more than 14 years of experience in guiding entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses through every step of obtaining a Dubai mainland license. From choosing the right activity to completing approvals with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED), we ensure the process is clear, compliant, and hassle-free.

dubai mainland license

Mainland Licenses in Dubai

A business license is a fundamental prerequisite for any enterprise operating in the UAE mainland. Business activities covered include 12 types, and a corporate license is required to continue legal operations in the high-energy UAE mainland business environment.

UAE Mainland Business License

Like most jurisdictions worldwide, entrepreneurs and investors in the United Arab Emirates must secure a trade license to establish their company as a recognized legal entity. In Mainland Dubai, this step is not only a regulatory requirement but also the foundation for building a sustainable and compliant business.

Holding a Dubai trade license assures your clients and partners that your company operates in full compliance with local laws and the guidelines set by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED). Among the essential procedures of Dubai mainland company formation, obtaining the right trade license is the most important milestone for any successful business setup.

The right license legitimizes your operations, strengthens your credibility, and ensures your company is positioned for long-term growth. The specific type of DED license Dubai you need depends on your business structure, the activities you plan to carry out, and your chosen location.

What is a Dubai Mainland License?

A Dubai mainland license is the official approval issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED) that allows a company to legally operate within the UAE mainland and trade beyond free zone boundaries. Unlike free zone companies, which are restricted to specific zones or require distributors to trade in the local market, businesses with a DED license Dubai enjoy complete freedom to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally.

With a mainland license in Dubai, companies can:

  • Conduct business directly in the UAE market.
  • Bid for lucrative government contracts.
  • Expand into multiple emirates without restrictions.
  • Enjoy a wider customer base and stronger credibility.

This makes it one of the most popular and flexible options for entrepreneurs considering Dubai company formation.

Benefits of a Mainland License in Dubai

Obtaining a DED license Dubai offers significant advantages compared to other structures:

  • Operate Across All Emirates: A mainland business can trade in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or anywhere else in the UAE.
  • Unlimited Business Activities: Flexibility to combine multiple mainland activities Dubai under a single license.
  • Government Projects: Eligibility to tender for contracts and government-backed initiatives.
  • Sponsorship Privileges: Ability to sponsor employees and dependents.
  • Prime Locations: Access to prestigious office spaces across the city, boosting your brand image.
  • Networking & Growth: Greater opportunities to collaborate with local and international partners.

For entrepreneurs planning to scale, the Dubai mainland license is a future-proof solution.

Types of Mainland Licenses in Dubai

The DED license Dubai is offered in several categories depending on the business activity you plan to conduct. Each license type caters to different industries, and selecting the right one is vital for compliance and long-term growth.

Commercial License in Dubai

A commercial license is the most common choice for entrepreneurs involved in trading, retail, and general commercial activities. With this license, you can:

  • Import, export, and distribute goods within the UAE and abroad.
  • Operate showrooms, shops, or wholesale businesses across Dubai.
  • Trade in single or multiple products, depending on your chosen activities.

For example, a company trading in electronics, textiles, or building materials would need a Dubai commercial trade license. Applications are filed with DED Dubai through the Invest in Dubai portal, with approvals linked to your chosen activity.

Professional License in Dubai

A professional license is designed for individuals and firms providing specialised services or expertise. This includes sectors such as IT consultancy, education, legal, healthcare, engineering, and other service-based professions.

Key advantages of a professional license Dubai:

  • 100% ownership is often available for expats in many professional categories.
  • Businesses can operate across the UAE mainland without restrictions.
  • Commonly used by consultancy firms, medical clinics, training institutes, and freelancers.

Professional licenses require appointing a Local Service Agent (LSA) instead of a shareholder, ensuring compliance with UAE regulations while retaining operational control.

Industrial License in Dubai

An industrial license is mandatory for businesses engaged in manufacturing, production, or assembly activities. Typical examples include factories, food processing plants, textiles, and packaging companies.

With an industrial license Dubai, you can:

  • Manufacture and package products locally.
  • Import raw materials and export finished goods.
  • Operate warehouses and industrial facilities in designated zones.

Industrial licenses often require additional approvals from authorities such as the Dubai Municipality and Civil Defense, depending on the scale of operations.

Tourism License in Dubai

Given Dubai’s reputation as a global travel hub, a tourism license is a crucial category for hospitality and travel-related businesses. It covers:

  • Travel agencies and tour operators.
  • Inbound and outbound tourism services.
  • Hotel and leisure activities approved by the Department of Tourism.

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Dubai, and holding a valid tourism license allows businesses to legally promote, book, and manage tourism services across the emirate.

General Trading License in Dubai

The general trading license Dubai is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to trade in multiple product categories under a single license. Unlike a standard commercial license that covers specific products, this license offers more flexibility.

With a Dubai general trading license, you can:

  • Import and export diverse goods such as clothing, electronics, food, or cosmetics.
  • Operate wholesale or retail outlets in Dubai’s bustling markets.
  • Expand into multiple sectors without applying for separate licenses.

This license is highly popular among investors seeking to run large-scale trading businesses and tap into Dubai’s position as a global re-export hub.

Dubai Mainland License Cost in 2025

The Dubai mainland license cost depends on multiple factors, including the type of business activity, the number of shareholders, visa requirements, and office space.

  • Government Fees: Core DED registration and approval charges.
  • Trade Name & Initial Approval: Mandatory steps in the application.
  • Office Rent (Ejari): Tenancy contract required for all mainland companies.
  • Visa Quotas: The more employees you sponsor, the higher the associated costs.
  • Professional Service Charges: Fees for document drafting, PRO services, and processing.

On average, a mainland trade license in Dubai costs between AED 12,000 to AED 25,000. However, activities such as financial services, healthcare, or engineering consultancy may require additional approvals, which can increase the cost.

At Gulf Corporate Services, we provide a transparent cost breakdown, helping you plan your budget with confidence.

Step-by-Step Process for Getting a Mainland License in Dubai

We simplify the entire Dubai mainland company formation process into clear steps:

  1. Choose Your Activity & Legal Structure
    Select from over 2,000 mainland activities in Dubai and decide on your business form (LLC, Sole Establishment, or Branch).
  2. Reserve Trade Name & Get Initial Approval
    Apply for trade name reservation and secure DED initial approval.
  3. Draft MoA or LSA Agreement
    Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MoA) for LLCs or a Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement for professional licenses.
  4. Secure Office Space (Ejari)
    A valid tenancy contract is required for final license issuance.
  5. Submit Application to DED
    Apply via the Invest in Dubai portal or directly with DED.
  6. Collect Mainland License
    Once approved, your business receives its Dubai mainland license.
  7. Post-License Setup
    Register with immigration for an Establishment Card, apply for employee visas, and open a corporate bank account.

With our expertise, we complete these steps smoothly, avoiding delays and hidden costs.

Required Documents for a Dubai Mainland License

When applying for a mainland license in Dubai, you will typically need:

  • Passport copies of all shareholders and partners.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Entry visa and Emirates ID (if applicable).
  • Tenancy contract (Ejari) for office premises.
  • Draft MoA or LSA agreement.
  • Trade name reservation and initial approval certificate.
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current sponsor (if employed in UAE).

Our team ensures that all documents are prepared correctly and submitted to avoid rejection.

Dubai Mainland Company Formation vs Free Zone Companies

A common question for new entrepreneurs is whether to set up in a mainland or free zone.

  • Free Zone Company: Ideal for businesses looking for cost-effective entry, with 100% ownership in specific sectors but restricted to operating within the free zone or internationally.
  • Dubai Mainland License: Offers unrestricted operations across the UAE, eligibility for government contracts, and broader flexibility for expansion.

At Gulf Corporate Services, we guide you through both options and recommend the structure that best suits your goals.

Mainland License Validity and Renewal Process

Your Dubai mainland license is valid for one year from the date of issuance. To keep your business operations active and legally compliant, the license must be renewed annually through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED). Timely renewal is essential to avoid penalties, disruptions in services, and legal consequences.

Why Annual Renewal Matters in Dubai

Renewing your DED license Dubai confirms that your company continues to meet local business requirements. Without a valid license, your company cannot legally:

  • Trade within Dubai or other emirates.
  • Sponsor employee visas or residence permits.
  • Apply for government contracts or bank facilities.
  • Access utilities or renew Ejari tenancy agreements.

Many entrepreneurs overlook deadlines and face late fees or service blocks. By working with Gulf Corporate Services, you ensure a smooth, penalty-free renewal process.

Why Choose Gulf Corporate Services for Your Mainland License in Dubai?

With more than a decade of experience in the UAE market, Gulf Corporate Services is trusted by entrepreneurs and corporations alike.

  • End-to-End Support: From activity selection to final approval.
  • DED Expertise: Direct dealings with DED Dubai and the Invest in Dubai portal.
  • Cost Transparency: Clear breakdowns with no hidden charges.
  • Fast Turnaround: Efficient handling to get your license in days, not weeks.
  • Beyond Licensing: Assistance with visas, corporate banking, compliance, and renewals.

Start your journey with confidence. Contact Gulf Corporate Services today and get your Dubai mainland license quickly, efficiently, and hassle-free.

Ready to Start? Let’s Get Your License Today

If you’re serious about growing your business, the mainland company setup in Dubai is your best move. We handle everything from start to finish, giving you peace of mind and clarity.

Get Expert Help Now

Contact us today for a free consultation. Our expert team will guide you through every step of the Dubai Mainland License process, ensuring a fast and secure start for your company.

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FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dubai Mainland License

A mainland license in Dubai is the permit issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DED) that allows companies to trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally.

The cost of a Dubai mainland license typically ranges between AED 12,000 and AED 25,000, depending on activity type, visas, and office space.

To get a mainland trade license, you must choose your activity, reserve a trade name, obtain DED initial approval, prepare a MoA or LSA agreement, secure an Ejari tenancy contract, and apply through the DED or Invest in Dubai portal.

The main types include Commercial, Professional, Industrial, Tourism, and General Trading licences, each designed for different activities.

Yes. Under the latest UAE regulations, foreign investors can hold 100% ownership in many mainland business activities without requiring a local sponsor.

If documents are correct, a Dubai mainland license can usually be issued in 5 to 10 working days, though regulated activities may take longer.

Key documents include passport copies, photographs, Ejari tenancy contract, trade name reservation, and the MoA or LSA agreement.

A mainland license lets you trade anywhere in the UAE and with government contracts, while a free zone license restricts you to the free zone or overseas unless you appoint a distributor.

To renew, ensure your Ejari contract is valid, clear government fees, update your Establishment Card, and submit your application to DED Dubai or via Invest in Dubai portal.

Not renewing your licence on time may lead to fines, visa suspensions, and business activity restrictions, affecting your company’s ability to operate legally.

CALCULATE BUSINESS SETUP COST