Dubai Mainland License: Complete Guide to Starting Your Business in Dubai (2025 Update)

Introduction

Dubai continues to stand as one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs, attracting entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations from every corner of the globe. The Emirate’s strategic location, business-friendly regulations, and tax benefits make it the top choice for establishing a company in the UAE.

Among the different types of business setups available, obtaining a Dubai Mainland License is often the best choice for those who want the freedom to trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally. Whether you’re launching a consultancy, a retail store, or a construction company, a Mainland License gives you maximum flexibility and credibility.

At Business Hub DCS, we help entrepreneurs simplify the entire licensing processfrom choosing your business activity to getting full DED approval, ensuring your company is up and running smoothly and quickly.

What is a Dubai Mainland License?

A Dubai Mainland License is an official business permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) that allows you to operate your business anywhere within Dubai and across the UAE. Unlike Free Zone licenses, which limit your business activities to specific zones, a Mainland License gives you complete freedom to do business within local markets and with government entities.

The DED regulates and oversees mainland company formation, ensuring that all businesses comply with the UAE’s commercial laws and standards.

Businesses under mainland jurisdiction can operate without any location restrictions, meaning you can set up your office, branch, or showroom in any part of Dubai.

Why Choose a Mainland License in Dubai?

Here’s why entrepreneurs and investors prefer a Dubai Mainland License in 2025:

1. 100% Foreign Ownership

Thanks to new UAE regulations, many mainland business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, meaning you no longer need a local sponsor for most sectors.

2. Freedom to Trade Anywhere

Operate and trade freely across the UAE and globally, unlike free zone companies that have restrictions outside their zones.

3. No Business Location Limitations

Set up your office anywhere in a commercial tower, retail space, or industrial area.

4. Access to Government Contracts

Mainland companies can apply for lucrative government tenders and projects, offering more growth opportunities.

5. Easy Expansion and Scalability

Add more branches or expand across the UAE without complex restructuring.

Types of Mainland Business Licenses in Dubai

Depending on your business activity, you can apply for one of the following DED Mainland licenses:

1. Commercial License

For trading, import/export, and retail activities. Example: General Trading License.

2. Professional License

For service-orientated businesses like consultancies, IT services, and marketing firms.

3. Industrial License

For manufacturing or industrial production units.

4. Tourism License

For travel agencies, tour operators, and hotel-related businesses.

5. Specialized Licenses

Covers industries like healthcare, education, or real estate often requiring external approvals.

Business Hub DCS assists you in identifying the correct license type based on your business activity, saving you time and avoiding costly mistakes.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a Dubai Mainland License

Here’s how to get your Dubai Mainland License in 2025, step by step:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

Select from over 2,000 DED-approved activities. Business Hub DCS helps ensure your chosen activity aligns with your business goals.

Step 2: Select a Legal Structure

Common structures include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Civil Company
• Branch of a Foreign Company

Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name

Choose a unique and relevant business name approved by DED that reflects your company’s identity.

Step 4: Get Initial Approval

This is a no-objection certificate from DED to proceed with company registration.

Step 5: Draft MOA/LSA

Depending on your legal form, prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement.

Step 6: Choose a Business Location

Secure a physical address with a valid Ejari tenancy contract.

Step 7: Obtain External Approvals (if applicable)

Certain sectors (health, media, tourism) may need approvals from relevant authorities.

Step 8: Submit Documents and Pay Fees

Submit all documents to DED and pay the official license fees.

Step 9: Receive Your Mainland License

Once approved, you’ll receive your official DED-issued business license—ready to operate legally in Dubai.

Required Documents for Mainland License Registration

• Passport copies of shareholders and managers
• Emirates ID/visa copies (if UAE residents)
• NOC from current sponsor (if applicable)
• Tenancy contract / Ejari certificate
• MOA or LSA agreement
• Initial approval certificate
• Trade name reservation certificate

Business Hub DCS manages all document submissions and ensures compliance with DED requirements to speed up approval.

Cost of Dubai Mainland License in 2025

The cost of obtaining a Dubai Mainland License typically ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 30,000, depending on various factors such as:

• Type of business activity
• Number of partners or shareholders
• Location and office size
• Number of visas required
• Additional approvals

Cost-Saving Tips from Business Hub DCS

• Combine multiple activities under one license to save renewal costs.
• Use a shared or flexible workspace (approved by DED).
• Choose the right visa quota to avoid unnecessary fees.
• Avail Business Hub DCS’s special Mainland setup packages starting from AED 12,999.

Dubai Mainland vs. Free Zone License:Which Is Better?

If your goal is to reach local clients and expand nationally, a Mainland License is your best choice.

Common Challenges & How Business Hub DCS Solves Them

With Business Hub DCS, you get complete peace of mind knowing your business setup is handled by industry professionals.

Why Choose Business Hub DCS for Your Mainland Company Setup?

• Expert Team: Over a decade of experience in UAE business setup and licensing.
• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees—full clarity from day one.
• Fast & Reliable: License approvals within days, not weeks.
• One-Stop Solution: From DED registration to visa processing and office leasing.
• Proven Track Record: 1,000+ successful company setups across the UAE.

Ready to start your business journey in Dubai?
Contact Business Hub DCS today and let our experts get your Mainland License approved quickly and affordably.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

1. What are the benefits of a mainland license in Dubai?

It allows 100% ownership (in most sectors), free trade across the UAE, and eligibility for government contracts.

2. How long does it take to get a Dubai Mainland License?

Typically 3 to 5 working days, depending on document completion and approvals.

3. Can foreigners own 100% of a mainland company in Dubai?

Yes, most business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership under updated UAE laws.

4. What is the difference between a DED and a mainland license?

The DED issues mainland licences, while free zones issue their own licenses within their jurisdictions.

5. Do I need an office to get a mainland license in Dubai?

Yes, a physical office or co-working space with an Ejari contract is required.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Dubai is one of the smartest moves for entrepreneurs aiming to tap into a growing and globally connected economy. A Dubai Mainland License offers the flexibility, market access, and credibility your company needs to thrive.

Partnering with Business Hub DCS ensures that every step from choosing your activity to getting your DED approval is handled professionally and efficiently.