Mainland License: Types, Cost, Benefits, Requirements, and Approval

Dubai Mainland License, issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), allows businesses to operate in the mainland and sell their products and services to local and international markets. Dubai’s mainland jurisdiction allows multiple license types to suit different business needs. 

The commercial license is designed for businesses involved in the buying, selling, importing, and exporting of different products and services within Dubai or abroad, as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. The industrial license is suited for businesses involved in the manufacturing, producing, and packaging of products and services within Dubai. Similarly, the professional license is suited for individuals offering professional services based on their artistic or mental abilities. Dubai Mainland also provides separate licenses for tour guidance, general trading, E-commerce, freelance service, a branch of a foreign company, food and beverages, and real estate. 

The cost of a Dubai mainland license depends on your business activity, legal structure, rental space, and partner’s residence. Mainland jurisdiction allows an E-trader license (sole proprietorship with unlimited liability) for only 1070 AED as per the Invest in Dubai (IID) portal, but if you aim to register a limited liability company with ex-pats as partners, the cost of a license will start at 15000 AED, with the added expense of extra approvals required based on your activities. 

Although a mainland license for foreigners seems expensive, it provides you the ability to operate a business anywhere within the emirates, sell to the local and international population, select from over 1000+ industries, and keep 100% ownership of your business in most sectors, except defense, military, banking, and telecommunication. 

The time required for applying for a mainland license is listed as 5 minutes for an instant license and 10 minutes for a normal license by the Department of Economy and Tourism; however, between document gathering, initial approval, and final approval, getting the license takes around 7-14 days. Applicants should get assistance from license consultants, who help save time, provide customized support, and streamline their license applications with their expertise.

In this article, we will give you an understanding of the Dubai mainland license, its types, costs, requirements, benefits, and time required. Let’s go!

What is a mainland License in Dubai?

A Mainland License in Dubai is a business license issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) that allows companies to trade with Dubai’s local market and internationally. The primary mainland license types include professional, industrial, commercial, and e-trader licenses. The cost of a license type depends on your business activity, legal structure, and partner’s residence, per the Invest in Dubai (IID) portal. 

For instance, a home-based business selling products online can operate a sole proprietorship, where the license only costs 1070 AED and an additional 300 for Dubai Chamber of Commerce membership as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. On the contrary, a limited liability company with a commercial real estate license will cost more than 15000 AED per the IID portal. 

What are the types of mainland licenses in Dubai?

The types of mainland license in Dubai governs the nature of activities businesses can legally undertake, ensuring compliance and proper operations. Dubai offers three main types of mainland licenses tailored for different business operations. The Commercial License is for trading activities, enabling companies to buy and sell goods. The Professional License supports service-oriented businesses like consultancy or education. Industrial Licenses are for manufacturing and production units.

The types of mainland licenses are listed below. 

• Commercial License allows trading businesses to import, export, and sell diverse goods like electronics and textiles within Dubai and internationally.
• Professional License is tailored for service-based activities like consulting, IT services, healthcare, and legal advisory. 
• Industrial License is required for all kinds of manufacturing, packaging, and production activities, including food, textiles, and petroleum. 
• A tour guide license is essential for individuals looking to operate as tour guides in mainland Dubai; it allows you to advertise, perform, and profit from your activities as a tour guide in English and Mandarin. 
• A General Trading License is an extension of the commercial license; it offers the versatility to trade multiple products in a sector without restrictions.
• E-commerce (E-trader) License supports businesses and entrepreneurs selling products through online platforms, including social media channels, in Dubai mainland.
• Freelance License is for individuals offering creative or specialized services, such as writers, designers, and consultants, allowing them to operate independently in Dubai Mainland without needing a brand name, as per Dubai Development Authority.
• A Branch Office License allows foreign or local companies to establish a branch in Dubai to extend their operations without creating a new legal entity.
• Food and Beverage License is mandatory for all businesses producing food for human consumption and includes restaurants, cafes, and catering services, as per Dubai municipality. 
• A Real Estate License is necessary for real estate/mortgage consultancies, property brokers, real estate development, management firms, and real estate promotion, as per the Dubai Land Department.

Commercial License

A Commercial License allows the licensee to buy and sell goods and services locally, import them into the UAE, or export them globally, including all physical products, real estate, logistics, and software, per the Department of Economy and Tourism. It is one of the most common licenses issued in Dubai and is suitable for businesses involved in trading activities. 

The cost of a commercial license depends on your legal structure, business activity, and partner’s residence. For instance, an SME commercial license with a Dubai founder costs 6070 AED; however, it rises to 14750 AED if a normal commercial license is obtained, as per the IID portal.

With a commercial license, businesses are allowed to deal in goods such as electronics, textiles, furniture, food products, and more. This license is ideal for companies looking to operate within Dubai’s thriving trade sector and an economy that connects global markets. It is issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) and allows businesses to open offices, retail outlets, or warehouses within Dubai.

Professional License

A Professional License is suited for individuals and companies providing service-oriented activities. This license caters to professions like consulting, marketing, IT services, legal advisory, design, healthcare, and more. It permits specialized services based on skills, education, and expertise rather than physical products. The cost of a professional license for a marketing consultancy with the legal form of a limited liability company is 15000 AED as per the IID portal. It changes if you opt for a partnership or sole proprietorship.

Industrial License

The industrial license is required for businesses engaged in all kinds of production, manufacturing, or packaging. This license covers activities like factory operations, production facilities, and manufacturing of goods such as textiles, machinery, electronics, or food products. The cost of an industrial license varies with the company’s legal structure and activity; nonetheless, if a limited liability company is chosen, the license cost is higher than 15,000 AED.

Typically issued by the DED, it also involves approvals from additional authorities such as the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and Dubai Municipality, depending on the manufacturing process. The Industrial License requires businesses to have at least 10 employees and a capital of no less than AED 250,000, per the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.

Tour Guide License

The Tour Guide License is required for individuals looking to provide tourism services for foreigners and ex-pats in both English and Mandarin, as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. The tour guide license is free for UAE nationals; however, for international residents, the cost is AED 7,520 for an English license and AED 10,040 for a Mandarin license. The visa is processed within 1-day after the test is passed, per the Department of Economy and Tourism.

General Trading License

A General Trading License is often included in the commercial license category in Dubai mainland. It is suitable for businesses that plan to trade a wide range of goods in a sector. With this license, you are allowed to import, export, and trade various products from different categories, such as electronics, clothing, furniture, and more. The cost of a general trading license for a limited liability company in Dubai mainland is approximately 15000 AED per the IID portal. 

The license allows businesses to operate both locally and internationally. It is ideal for entrepreneurs who want versatility and minimal restrictions in their trading ventures. Dubai’s strategic geographic location and efficient trade infrastructure make it an excellent choice for general trading businesses.

E-commerce (E-trader) License

The E-trader license, also called an E-commerce license, is for individuals, with home-based businesses, and entrepreneurs who sell their products online through various channels as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. An E-trader license costs 1370 AED to start your operations in Dubai mainland and is given within 1 day as per the IID portal. 

An e-trader license enables businesses to operate online stores, sell products, or provide digital services such as app and software development. The license is widely used by new startups and entrepreneurs who are focusing on launching products digitally. With e-commerce rapidly growing in the UAE, this license provides access to a tech-savvy and digitally engaged consumer market.

Freelance License

The Freelance License is designed for freelance professionals who want to work independently in Dubai mainland and operate under their birth name without associating with a specific brand, as per the Dubai Development Authority (DDA). This license allows freelancers to work legally, issue invoices, and operate as sole proprietors. Freelance license costs 7500 AED and is processed within 2 days as per DDA. 

Branch Office License

The Branch Office License is for companies looking to establish a branch of their existing business in Dubai while retaining full ownership. This license facilitates international companies wishing to expand their operations in the UAE without creating a new legal entity. The license cost is 7500 AED, and the process is completed within one working day, as per the Ministry of Economy. 

A branch office is allowed to engage in the same activities as its parent company, including trading, manufacturing, or services. However, additional licenses and approvals from relevant authorities are required depending on the industry. The Branch office license also requires a 50,000 AED bank guarantee from the foreign company to the Ministry of Economy for the license to qualify for auto-renewal. 

Food and Beverage License

A food and beverage license is required for all businesses looking to trade goods designed for human consumption in Dubai mainland. Restaurants, cafes, catering services, and food production units need a Food and Beverage License. The Dubai municipality has set strict guidelines about pre-approval requests and minimum area required for food to ensure all products are safe for consumption. 

For instance, a Baker would need a minimum 200 sq ft area for food, and a pre-approval from the Food Safety Department to apply for the food and beverage license. The cost of the license for a catering business is 5000 AED, as per the Dubai Development Authority.  The license is crucial for establishments serving food or beverages to the public and often requires inspections and approvals by health authorities.

Real Estate License

Real estate license allows businesses related to real estate financing, marketing, consulting, and associated activities to provide services in Dubai mainland. The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) handles the licensing and ensures all activities comply with local property laws. The land department requires a no-objection letter for freehold land from the applicant while registering for the license. The Real estate license costs vary depending on the business’s range of activities. 

Real estate consultation, brokerage, public auctions, and real estate trading have a license of 5000 AED each annually, with an additional 20 AED as a knowledge and innovation Dirham fee. However, for businesses hosting public exhibitions or providing Real estate evaluation services, the costs rise to 15000 AED annually per the Dubai Land Department. 

How Much Does a Mainland License Cost?

The cost of a Mainland License varies depending on factors such as the company’s legal form, business activity, office space requirements, trade name reservation, and government approval fees, as per the Invest in Dubai portal. The license cost for a sole proprietorship is 1070 AED; however, if a Single limited liability company is created, the license cost will increase to 6070 AED. The following list contains the approximate cost of registering a limited liability company (2 to 50 members) for ex-pats in Dubai mainland. 

1. Commercial License – Starting from AED 15,000
2. Professional License – Starting from AED 15,000
3. Industrial License – Starting from AED 15,000
4. Tour Guide License – Starting from AED 7,500
5. General Trading License – Starting from AED 15,000
6. E-trader License – Starting from AED 1070
7. Freelance License – Starting from AED 7,500
8. Branch Office License – Starting from AED 7,500
9. Food and Beverage License – Starting from AED 5,000
10. Real Estate License – Starting from AED 16,500

What are the benefits of a mainland business license?

The benefits of a Dubai mainland license include location flexibility, diverse business opportunities, unrestricted trade, 100% ownership control, Access to Lucrative Government Contracts, and no minimum capital requirement. 

• Location Flexibility: Businesses on the mainland of Dubai can operate anywhere within the city without being confined to specific zones, per the Department of Economy and Tourism. Entrepreneurs can choose the ideal location for their operations, whether a bustling retail district like Deira or a prestigious corporate hub like Sheikh Zayed Road.
• Diverse Business Opportunities: Dubai Mainland offers a chance to operate across over 1,000 business activities spanning commercial, industrial, and professional sectors, per The Department of Economy and Tourism. Entrepreneurs can leverage Dubai’s growing industries, such as tourism, finance, technology, and green energy, while capitalizing on the city’s ambitious economic growth plans under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
• Unrestricted Trade: Mainland businesses are allowed trade freely across Dubai, Emirates, and international markets, taking advantage of the city’s strategic location, world-class ports, and airports.
• 100% Ownership Control: Foreign investors can fully own mainland businesses without needing a local sponsor in most sectors except defense, military, banking, and telecommunications. The provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020 reform ensure greater autonomy, full revenue retention, and control over business decisions, making Dubai a global investment hotspot.
• Access to Lucrative Government Contracts: Mainland businesses are exclusively eligible to bid for high-value government tenders. Winning these contracts ensures steady revenue, boosts credibility, and fosters long-term partnerships with public authorities.
• No Minimum Capital Requirement: Setting up a mainland business in Dubai does not require an initial minimum capital deposit for most companies, significantly lowering startup barriers, as per the Ministry of Economy. Entrepreneurs can focus on building their businesses without the burden of high upfront costs, channeling their resources into growth and operations.

What are the requirements for getting a license in Dubai Mainland?

The requirements for a Dubai mainland license differ based on the chosen business activities, legal structure, and the applicant’s residency status. Visitors must have a valid tourist or visit visa to proceed with business registration. The primary requirements for a mainland license are listed below.

• Initial Approval Requirements
  • For Foreign Nationals: A copy of the business owner’s passport is mandatory.
  • For Emirati Citizens or UAE Residents: A copy of their Emirates ID must be submitted.
  • For Non-GCC Nationals: Applicants must provide a copy of their valid residence visa or permit.
  • Company’s Articles of Association (if applicable): Required for all businesses except single-owner limited liability companies (LLC).

Additional Requirements for Specific Business Entities

• Public Shareholding and Private Joint-Stock Companies
  • These companies must present a detailed feasibility study outlining the proposed project. This demonstrates the project’s viability, as stipulated under Article 113 of Federal Law 32 of 2021.
• Branches of Companies Based in Other Emirates: Companies planning to open a branch in Dubai from other UAE emirates need to fulfill the following as per Article 337 of Federal Law 32 of 2021
  • A formal board resolution from the parent company approving the establishment of the Dubai branch
  • A written authorization letter from the managing director of the parent company.
  • A copy of the parent company’s commercial registration certificate.
  • The parent company’s Memorandum of Association (MoA).
• Branches of Foreign or Free Zone Companies: For foreign companies or those operating in one of Dubai’s free zones, the following are required:
  • A certified license copy from the parent company.
  • Corporate documents of the parent company must be attested and legalized by the UAE Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of origin. These must then be further counter-attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Certified Arabic translations of the parent company’s documents, verified by the Ministry of Justice in the UAE.

How can I get a Mainland License in Dubai?

You can get a mainland license in Dubai using the steps listed below.

1. Define Your Business Category

2. Select Your Business Activity

3. Reserve a Trade Name

4. Choose Your License Type

5. Confirm Foreign Ownership Eligibility

6. Obtain Initial Approval

7. Secure a Business Location

8. Apply for Industry-Specific Approvals (If Required)

9. Submit Documentation

10. Pay Licensing Fees and Receive Approval

11. Obtain Final Approval Through Registration

The cost of a Dubai mainland license is 1070 AED for a single proprietorship, 6070 AED for a single limited liability company, and 15000 AED for a limited liability company, depending on the activity, legal structure, and partner’s residence, as per the IID portal. 

What is the cheapest business license for a mainland company?

The cheapest license for a mainland company is the SME license for 6070 AED, as per the IID portal, available for UAE and GCC nationals only. Similarly, UAE and GCC nationals are eligible for an E-trader license for 1070 AED, but it comes with unlimited liability for the business’s owner. 

How much time is required to get a business license in Dubai mainland?

The time required to apply for an instant Dubai mainland license is 5 minutes; for a normal license, it is 10 minutes, as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. The initial approval takes 3 to 5 working days, and the final approval takes 1 to 2 days. Hence, a license is available within 7 days of your application. 

How do you renew a mainland license in Dubai?

The steps to renew a mainland license, as per the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), are listed below.

1. Access the DED Business Dashboard

• Log in to the DED eServices portal and go to the Business Dashboard.
• Under the My Transactions section, click on Renew License.

2. Enter License Details

• Provide the license number of the business you wish to renew in the License Renewal Information section.
• Click Renew to proceed.

3. Confirm License Information

• Review the provided license details, including:
  • Business name (in Arabic and English).
  • License number.
  • Current expiration date and the updated expiry date after renewal.
• If prompted, update any outdated contact details like mobile number, email, or address by clicking on the provided link.

4. Address Market Fee Payment

• Enter the RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) contract number associated with the business premises.
• Click on Get rent amount from RERA to retrieve the rental fee.
• Note that having a registered RERA contract is mandatory for renewal.

5. Accommodation and General Cleaning Fees

• Review any accommodation fees for owners or partners listed on the license.
• Verify the general cleaning fee, which will be calculated and displayed.

6. Upload Required Documents

• Attach all necessary documents for your license renewal:
  • Use the Upload document feature to choose and save your files.
  • Uploaded documents may vary based on your business activity.
• Once all documents are uploaded, click Apply for Renewal.
• If needed, you can cancel the process by clicking Cancel.

7. Application Review and Approval

• A DED employee will review your application and the attached documents.
• The application will be sent to the relevant authorities if external approvals are required.
• Once approvals are obtained, DED will issue a payment letter.

8. Complete Payment and Finalize

• After receiving the payment letter, settle the required fees to finalize the renewal process—the cost for license renewal changes, given your business’s legal entity and age. Usually, the renewal price is the same as the license cost.

Do I need a consultant for a mainland License in Dubai?

Yes, although hiring a consultant to obtain a mainland license in Dubai is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. A business consultant brings expertise in navigating the licensing process, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and avoiding delays due to paperwork or procedural errors. Consultants are beneficial in:

• Saving Time and Effort: They handle documentation, approvals, and coordination with government authorities, allowing you to focus on your business setup.
• Customized Guidance: They help identify the most suitable license type, legal structure, and cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.
• Streamlining Processes: Their experience mitigates potential roadblocks, especially when dealing with specialized approvals or industry-specific requirements.

How can I get a mainland License consultant in Dubai?

You can get a mainland license consultant by contacting Felix Happich Consultancy. We assist businesses in setting up their operations in Dubai mainland by streamlining their legal procedures, providing customized guidance based on their situation, and saving time by taking over your documental requirements. We have over 7 years of experience in Dubai mainland and have helped numerous clients worldwide with a 100% customer satisfaction rating. Contact us to get consultancy services for your Dubai mainland license.