Setting up a business in the Dubai mainland is one of the most rewarding decisions for entrepreneurs and investors. The process has become more streamlined over the years, thanks to Dubai’s modern digital systems and business-friendly regulations. However, it still requires careful attention to legal procedures, documentation, and government approvals. To help you navigate this smoothly, here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to obtain a mainland business license in Dubai, ensuring compliance with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) requirements.
1. Decide on Your Business Activity
The first and most important step is selecting the right business activity from the DET’s approved list. Dubai offers more than 2,000 economic activities covering commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism sectors.
The type of activity you choose will determine:
- The license category (commercial, professional, or industrial)
- The approvals you’ll need from other authorities
- The legal structure of your business
For example, if you plan to run a consultancy, you’ll need a professional license. For trading goods, a commercial license applies. Choosing the correct activity is crucial because mistakes can delay or reject your license application.
2. Choose the Legal Structure of Your Company
Once your activity is selected, you must choose your company’s legal structure, which defines ownership, liability, and management rules.
Common legal forms for mainland companies in Dubai include:
- Sole Establishment: Owned by a single individual (for professional licenses).
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): The most common structure, allowing 100% foreign ownership in most activities.
Civil Company: Ideal for professional partnerships. - Branch of a Foreign Company: For international firms expanding to Dubai.
- Representative Office: For marketing or promotion purposes without trading activity.
Choosing the right structure is vital to ensure compliance with UAE company laws.
3. Register a Trade Name
Next, select and register your trade name with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
The trade name should:
- Reflect your business activity clearly.
- Avoid offensive or religious words.
- Do not duplicate an existing company name.
- End with the appropriate legal form (e.g., “LLC,” “Est.,” or “FZE”).
Once approved, the DET will issue a Trade Name Reservation Certificate, which is valid for 6 months.
4. Obtain Initial Approval from DET
Before applying for your final license, you must secure an Initial Approval Certificate from DET.
This approval confirms that the UAE government has no objection to you starting your business in Dubai. It’s an essential step before proceeding with document submission or tenancy contracts.
To get this approval, submit:
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Visa and Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Business activity details
- Trade name reservation certificate
Once approved, you can move forward with tenancy, document typing, and external approvals.
5. Secure a Physical Office or Ejari
A physical office is mandatory for all mainland licenses in Dubai. You’ll need to lease or purchase an office space and register it through Ejari (Dubai’s tenancy registration system).
Requirements include:
- A valid tenancy contract under the company’s name
- Ejari certificate issued by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA)
- The office size must meet the minimum area requirements as per your activity type
This step ensures your business has an official address for legal and regulatory communication.
6. Get External Approvals (If Required)
Depending on your business activity, additional approvals may be required from specific government authorities. Examples include:
- Dubai Municipality: for construction or industrial activities
- KHDA: for education or training institutions
- RTA: for transportation-related businesses
- DHA or MOHAP: for healthcare services
- DTCM: for tourism or travel agencies
The SH Typing Center team can help identify which approvals apply to your business and process them quickly through the right channels.
7. Submit Final Documents and Pay Fees
Once you’ve obtained initial approval, tenancy registration, and all necessary external permits, you can submit your final application for license issuance.
Documents typically include:
- Completed license application form
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Passport copies of shareholders
- Initial approval and trade name certificates
- Ejari tenancy contract
- External approvals (if applicable)
The total cost varies based on the business activity, but generally, mainland licenses range between AED 10,000–25,000.
After submission and payment, the DET will issue your official business license, allowing you to begin operations legally.
8. Apply for an Establishment Card and Visas
After your license is issued, you’ll need to apply for:
- A Company Establishment Card from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Investor or employee residence visas through GDRFA.
This enables your company to hire staff, sponsor employees, and open a corporate bank account.
9. Renew Annually
A Dubai mainland license must be renewed every year. Ensure your trade license, tenancy contract, and other permits remain valid to avoid fines or penalties. Professional centers like SH Typing Center can manage renewals efficiently, saving you time and ensuring uninterrupted operations.
Getting a mainland business license in Dubai involves multiple stages from activity selection to final approval, but with the right guidance, the process is smooth and efficient. Working with experts such as SH Typing Center ensures your application is accurate, compliant, and approved quickly. Whether you’re setting up your first business or expanding an existing one, professional assistance guarantees a seamless experience with no missed steps or costly errors.