Thinking about starting a business in Dubai? You’re not alone. Dubai has quickly become a magnet for global entrepreneurs — and for good reason. From its strategic location and zero income tax to its ultra-modern infrastructure, it’s no wonder so many dream of launching their venture here.
But before you dive in, one key question always pops up:
How much does it cost to get a Dubai Mainland business license?
Let’s break it down in simple, real-world terms — so you know exactly what to expect and how to plan your business budget.
What is a Dubai Mainland License?
A Dubai Mainland license is your official permission slip to operate a business anywhere within Dubai and the wider UAE. It’s issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), and unlike free zone licenses, it lets you trade freely within the local market.
Whether you’re planning to open a café, launch a consultancy, start a logistics firm, or build a tech startup — if you want full access to the UAE market, a Mainland license is the way to go.
Why Set Up a Mainland Business?
If you’re serious about growth and flexibility, a Mainland license is your golden ticket. Here’s why:
Freedom to operate anywhere in Dubai or the UAE
No limit on the number of clients or types of services you offer
Full ownership for most activities (no local sponsor needed in many cases)
Access to government contracts and large corporate clients
Long-term credibility and investor trust
Simply put, it gives your business room to grow without boundaries.
Want to compare options? Check out our guide on Mainland vs Free Zone company setup.
So, How Much Does a Dubai Mainland License Really Cost?
Let’s be honest — there’s no “one price fits all” because it depends on your business type, size, and setup. But to give you a solid starting point, here’s a practical breakdown of the typical costs.
Base License Fees:
Professional License (e.g., marketing, consulting): AED 10,000 – AED 18,000
Commercial License (e.g., trading, retail): AED 12,000 – AED 20,000
Industrial License (e.g., manufacturing): AED 15,000 – AED 25,000+
These fees cover your official DED registration and activity approval.
Other Costs You Need to Consider
Setting up a business isn’t just about paying for the license. Here are some other things that affect the total cost:
1. Office Space
You need a physical office in Dubai — it’s mandatory for a Mainland license.
Shared or Flex Desk: AED 5,000 – AED 15,000/year
Private Office: AED 15,000 – AED 50,000+/year (depends on location and size)
2. Visas
You’ll need visas for yourself and your team. The cost per visa is around AED 2,000 – AED 6,000.
💡 Pro tip: The bigger your office, the more visas you can apply for.
Read more about our visa services.
3. Trade Name Registration
Reserving a trade name costs between AED 620 and AED 2,000 — depending on how unique or premium the name is. Learn how to reserve a trade name in Dubai.
4. MoA & Legal Documents
You’ll need to draft and notarize your Memorandum of Association (MoA). That’s another AED 500 – AED 2,000.
5. Additional Approvals (if needed)
Certain businesses — like healthcare, food, or legal services — might need extra permits or regulatory approvals, which can add AED 1,000 – AED 10,000+ to your setup cost.
StratEdge can help you secure special approvals for regulated activities.
6. License Renewal
Mainland licenses must be renewed annually. Expect to pay a similar amount to your initial license cost — AED 10,000 to AED 25,000.
Total Cost Estimate: How Much Should You Budget?
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you might spend on setting up a small-to-medium business in Dubai Mainland:
| Category | Estimated Range (AED) |
|---|---|
| License Fees | 10,000 – 25,000 |
| Office Space (yearly) | 5,000 – 50,000 |
| Visas (per person) | 2,000 – 6,000 |
| Trade Name Registration | 620 – 2,000 |
| Legal Documentation (MoA) | 500 – 2,000 |
| Additional Permits (if any) | 1,000 – 10,000 |
Total Startup Range: Around AED 25,000 to AED 65,000+
(Based on your business activity, location, and team size.)
Steps to Get Your Dubai Mainland License
Wondering how the process works? Here’s how we handle it at StratEdge Advisors:
We help you choose the right business activity
We reserve your trade name and get DED approvals
We help you secure Ejari office space
We prepare your MoA and other required documents
We submit everything to the DED and handle payments
You get your Dubai Mainland business license
Need visas? We’ll take care of that too with our PRO services
Why Work with StratEdge Advisors?
We know how confusing business setup in Dubai can be — that’s why we’ve made it our mission to simplify it for you.
At StratEdge, we’re not just another consultancy. We’re your partner from start to finish.
✅ Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
✅ Hands-on support from real people who know the system
✅ Fast-track processing and personalized guidance
✅ We save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress
Whether you’re setting up a solo consultancy or building a full-fledged company, we’ll make sure you do it right — from day one.
Get in touch with us today and let’s launch your business the right way.
FAQs
Q: Can I own 100% of my Mainland company in Dubai?
A: Yes! Most sectors allow full foreign ownership. No local partner required. Learn more about 100% foreign ownership in the UAE.
Q: Do I need an office to get the license?
A: Yes, a physical office is mandatory. Even a shared desk will do for smaller businesses.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: If all your documents are in order, it typically takes 5–10 working days.