How Much Is a Dubai Mainland License Cost in 2025?

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Are you planning to start a business in Dubai and wondering how much it costs to get a mainland license in 2025? The Dubai mainland license is one of the most essential business permits, allowing companies to operate freely across the UAE without geographical restrictions.

With constant changes in the business setup landscape, understanding the current costs and requirements is more important than ever.

Whether you’re launching a new startup, expanding your existing company, or relocating from a free zone, a Dubai mainland license gives you access to broader markets, government contracts, and long-term business sustainability.

The cost of acquiring one, however, varies based on several factors such as your business activity, office size, number of visas required, and more. This guide breaks down the full cost structure, processes, and strategies to help you make informed decisions before setting up your business.

What Is a Dubai Mainland License?

A Dubai mainland license is a business permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), enabling companies to legally operate in the UAE’s mainland jurisdiction. Unlike free zone companies, mainland businesses can trade directly with the local market and take on government projects.

This type of license provides flexibility and is available across a wide range of sectors, including commercial trading, professional services, manufacturing, logistics, and more. Whether you’re launching a boutique consultancy or a large industrial unit, this license is your gateway to unrestricted business operations in Dubai and the wider UAE.

Key characteristics of a Dubai mainland license include:

Full access to the UAE market with no geographic limitations
Ability to bid for public sector and government contracts
Unlimited visa eligibility (depending on office space)
Freedom to set up your office anywhere in Dubai
No minimum capital requirements for most businesses

It’s important to know that the DED oversees all processes related to business licensing, registration, and renewal within the mainland area. The type of license you require will depend on the nature of your business activity, such as commercial, industrial, or professional.

Overall, a mainland license is suitable for entrepreneurs seeking long-term growth, flexibility, and access to diverse business opportunities throughout the UAE.

Why Choose a Mainland License in Dubai?

When deciding where to establish your business in Dubai, choosing a mainland license offers several distinct advantages over free zone or offshore options. This license provides direct access to the UAE’s domestic market, allowing businesses to operate across the country without restriction.

Here are the key reasons why entrepreneurs and corporations prefer a Dubai mainland license:

Unrestricted Market Access: You can conduct business anywhere in the UAE without limitations, including servicing clients locally or internationally.
Government Projects Eligibility: Mainland companies can bid for high-value public sector contracts, which are often inaccessible to free zone businesses.
Unlimited Visa Quota: You can apply for as many employee visas as your office space permits, giving you flexibility to scale.
Office Location Freedom: Unlike free zone companies, you’re free to rent or purchase office space in prime locations such as Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, or Sheikh Zayed Road.
No Currency Restrictions: There are no barriers to currency repatriation, making it easier to manage your international cash flow.

In addition to the above, mainland licenses offer broader business activity options, including retail, logistics, food and beverage, and professional services.

This makes it an ideal option for businesses looking to serve a wide audience and expand operations seamlessly. Choosing a mainland license means opting for freedom, scalability, and credibility in the UAE market.

Dubai Mainland License Cost in 2025

The cost of a Dubai mainland license in 2025 can vary widely based on your business activity, size, location, and other related expenses. Typically, the cost starts from AED 12,000 and can go as high as AED 40,000 or more, depending on your business requirements.

Here’s a detailed cost breakdown by license type:

Commercial License: AED 10,000 to AED 15,000 per year. Ideal for trading businesses dealing with goods and retail.
Professional Services License: AED 5,600 to AED 9,950 annually. Perfect for consultancy, IT, marketing, and design firms.
Industrial License: AED 15,000 to AED 25,000 or more, depending on the nature of the manufacturing or production operation.
Instant License: Starts from AED 3,000. Includes trade name and initial DED approval, ideal for low-overhead service-based businesses.

Office space rental is another major component of the setup cost:

Shared office space: AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 annually
Private office space: AED 15,000 to AED 50,000 annually

Other associated fees include:

Trade Name Registration: AED 620 to AED 2,000 depending on the uniqueness of your business name
Initial DED Approval Fee: AED 2,000 to AED 5,000
Visa Fees: AED 3,000 to AED 6,000 per employee visa
Document Translation and Notarization: AED 300 to AED 800 per document
Renewal Costs: AED 10,000 to AED 25,000 per year

Dubai Mainland License Cost

License Type	Annual Cost (AED)	Visa Quota	Office Required
Commercial License	10,000 – 15,000	Based on size	Yes
Professional License	5,600 – 9,950	Based on size	Yes
Industrial License	15,000 – 25,000+	Based on size	Yes
Instant License	From 3,000	Limited	No (initially)

Understanding these cost categories is essential for budgeting your Dubai business setup effectively.

Key Factors That Affect Dubai Mainland License Cost

Several key factors influence the overall cost of a Dubai mainland license in 2025. Being aware of these variables will help you make informed decisions and avoid hidden expenses.

Business Activity Type: The nature of your business greatly impacts the license fee. For example, a commercial trading license often costs more than a professional services license. Industrial activities might require additional permits and facility checks.
Company Size: Larger businesses with more staff or multiple branches will require more extensive licensing and visa quotas, which increase costs.
Office Space Requirements: A physical office is mandatory for mainland businesses. Office size and location directly impact your cost and visa quota eligibility.
Visa Requirements: The number of employee visas you apply for affects your total budget. Visa fees range between AED 3,000 and AED 6,000 per visa, and each requires supporting infrastructure.
DED Activity Fees and Approvals: Each business activity has associated DED fees. Some businesses also need extra approvals from regulatory bodies like Dubai Municipality or Dubai Health Authority.
Trade Name Registration: Unique or special business names may attract higher reservation costs, ranging from AED 620 to AED 2,000.
Translation and Legalization: Official documents must be legally translated and notarized, adding AED 300 to AED 800 per document.

By understanding these influencing factors, you can estimate your licensing budget with more accuracy and plan ahead effectively.

Additional Setup and Recurring Costs to Consider

Beyond the initial licensing fee, you should consider several additional costs that affect both your setup and operational budget in the UAE.

Trade Name Reservation: To reserve your business name, you’ll pay around AED 620 to AED 2,000, depending on the name’s uniqueness.
Office Rent: Renting office space is a mandatory requirement.
Costs vary: Shared office AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 annually. Private office AED 15,000 to AED 50,000 or more, depending on location
Visa and Immigration Fees: Employee visas typically cost AED 3,000 to AED 6,000 each, depending on processing times and documentation requirements.
Document Translation and Legalization: Important business documents like MOAs must be translated into Arabic and notarized, costing AED 300 to AED 800 per document.
Annual License Renewal: Your mainland license must be renewed every year. Renewal fees are typically similar to the initial setup cost, ranging from AED 10,000 to AED 25,000.
Additional Government Approvals: Businesses in healthcare, education, or logistics may need further approvals from specific authorities, costing between AED 1,000 and AED 10,000.

Recurring Cost Table

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (AED)
License Renewal	10,000 – 25,000
Office Rent	5,000 – 50,000+
Visa Fees (Per Employee)	3,000 – 6,000
Trade Name Reservation	620 – 2,000

Factoring in these recurring costs will help keep your business compliant and financially sustainable year-round.

How to Apply for a Dubai Mainland License?

Setting up a Dubai mainland business license is a structured process governed by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Following each step carefully ensures a smooth setup.

Step 1: Choose your business activity: Start by identifying the core activities your business will perform. This determines the license category, commercial, professional, or industrial, and influences associated fees and approvals.
Step 2: Select and register your trade name: Choose a unique business name that aligns with DED naming conventions. Names must not violate UAE public morals or include religious references. You can reserve your trade name online or through service centers.
Step 3: Get initial approval from DED: This step confirms that the government has no objection to your business activities and structure. It enables you to proceed with documentation and space rental.
Step 4: Secure office space: Rent a physical office or flexi desk within Dubai. Your office space size will determine your visa quota. Lease agreements must be registered through Ejari.
Step 5: Prepare and submit required documents: You’ll need to gather passport copies, the lease agreement, the trade name reservation certificate, a drafted MOA, and the initial approval. Certain professions may also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Step 6: Pay license fees and collect the license: Once your documents are approved, pay the required license and registration fees. Your business license will be issued by the DED.
Step 7: Apply for visas and establishment card: After receiving your license, apply for employee visas, labor cards, and medicals. You’ll also need an Establishment Card from the Ministry of Human Resources.

Following these steps will ensure your Dubai mainland business is set up legally, efficiently, and ready for growth.

How to Reduce Your Mainland Business Setup Costs?

Starting a business in Dubai can be costly, but strategic planning can help you reduce expenses without compromising quality or compliance.

Here are proven ways to lower your setup costs in 2025:

Choose a professional license: If your business provides services like consulting or IT, a professional license is usually cheaper than a commercial or industrial license.
Start with a flexi desk or shared office: For smaller teams or startups, renting a shared office or flexi desk instead of a full private office can significantly reduce your rent. These spaces still qualify for license issuance.
Consider the instant license option: The DED’s instant license option allows you to begin operations without securing office space immediately. It’s ideal for low-risk service businesses and starts from just AED 3,000.
Bundle services through consultants: Business setup companies often offer packages that include trade name registration, approvals, and visa assistance, saving you both time and money.
Avoid unnecessary business activities: Only list essential activities on your license. Each additional activity adds fees and may require extra approvals.
Scale gradually: Start small with fewer employees and office space. Expand operations as revenue grows to maintain a healthy cash flow.

Cost-saving doesn’t mean cutting corners. With careful planning and informed decisions, you can launch a mainland business in Dubai affordably and efficiently.

Dubai Mainland License Cost Comparison Table

With various license options available, comparing the costs and features side by side is essential for selecting the most suitable license for your business. Each license type serves different purposes and has a different cost range and setup requirement.

Below is a comparison of the most common Dubai mainland license types in 2025:

License Type	Approx. Cost (AED)	Office Space Required	Visa Quota	Best For
Commercial License	10,000 – 15,000	Yes	Based on size	Retail, trading, sales
Professional License	5,600 – 9,950	Yes	Based on size	Consultants, freelancers
Industrial License	15,000 – 25,000+	Yes	Based on facility	Manufacturing, production
Instant License	From 3,000	No (initially)	Limited	Small service-based businesses

Commercial licenses are versatile but slightly costlier due to trading activity regulations.
Professional licenses are cost-effective and well-suited for solo entrepreneurs and service firms.
Industrial licenses demand higher investment due to facility and safety compliance needs.
Instant licenses are the most budget-friendly but come with limited features.

Choosing the right license type depends on your business size, scope, and long-term plans. Reviewing this table helps you assess what fits your model best.

Conclusion

Understanding the true cost of a Dubai mainland license in 2025 is essential for a successful business setup. With prices ranging from AED 12,000 to over AED 40,000, the final figure depends on factors like your business activity, office size, visa requirements, and chosen license type.

While the process may seem complex, it becomes manageable with proper planning and professional support. Whether you choose a commercial, professional, or instant license, each comes with its own benefits and compliance needs. Strategically reducing costs, like starting with a shared office or opting for the instant license, can also make your launch more affordable.

Dubai’s mainland market offers limitless opportunities for businesses ready to serve local and international clients. With the right license in hand, you can access broader markets, scale operations, and compete in one of the world’s most dynamic business environments.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a Dubai mainland license?

It typically takes 3 to 7 working days if all documents and approvals are in place. Delays may occur for specific business activities needing extra permissions.

Can I start a Dubai mainland business without an office?

Yes, the DED offers instant licenses that don’t initially require office space. However, you’ll need to secure office premises for full licensing and visa eligibility.

What is the cheapest Dubai mainland license available?

The instant license is the most affordable, starting from AED 3,000. It suits small service-based startups with limited initial needs.

Is a local sponsor required for mainland businesses in 2025?

For most commercial and industrial licenses, local sponsorship is still required. However, many professional licenses allow 100% foreign ownership under recent reforms.

Can I operate across the UAE with a mainland license?

Yes, a mainland license allows you to do business anywhere in the UAE, unlike free zone licenses which restrict operations to their jurisdiction.

Are there any tax exemptions for mainland companies?

Mainland companies are subject to UAE’s corporate tax rules, but startups may benefit from exemptions if revenue is below the threshold. Always consult a tax expert.