Dubai is a global business hub that offers lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors. If you are planning to start a business in Dubai, obtaining a Mainland License is a crucial step. This license allows businesses to operate anywhere in Dubai and the UAE, giving them more flexibility and access to a broader market. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of applying for a Dubai Mainland License. Blogs
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
The first step in obtaining a Dubai Mainland License is to determine the type of business activity you want to engage in. The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai provides a list of over 2,000 business activities, covering various industries such as trading, manufacturing, consultancy, and services.
Step 2: Select a Legal Structure
Your business structure depends on the nature of your business and the number of partners involved. The common legal structures for a Mainland License include:
- Sole Proprietorship (for single owners)
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) (for multiple shareholders)
- Civil Company (for professionals such as consultants and doctors)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
Step 3: Choose a Trade Name
Selecting an appropriate trade name is essential. The trade name should be unique and comply with the UAE’s naming regulations. It must not include offensive language, religious references, or political terms. Once chosen, the trade name must be registered with the DED.
Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval
After deciding on your business activity and trade name, you need to obtain initial approval from the DED. The government has no issues with you establishing a firm in Dubai, according to this approval.
Step 5: Secure a Local Service Agent or Sponsor
For certain business structures, such as an LLC, you are required to have a local UAE national as a sponsor or partner. In the case of professional licenses, a Local Service Agent (LSA) is needed, but they do not have ownership in the company.
Step 6: Rent an Office Space
A physical office is mandatory for a Dubai Mainland License. You must rent an office or commercial space that meets the DED’s requirements and obtain a tenancy contract, also known as an Ejari certificate.
Step 7: Prepare and Submit Documents
The required documents for a Mainland License application include:
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Initial approval certificate
- Trade name registration certificate
- Memorandum of Association (MOA) (for LLCs)
- Lease agreement (Ejari)
Step 8: Pay Fees and Obtain the License
Once all documents are submitted, you must pay the required fees to the DED. The cost varies depending on the business activity, license type, and office location. After payment, the DED will issue your Dubai Mainland License, allowing you to commence business operations.
Step 9: Apply for Additional Permits (If Required)
Certain businesses require special approvals from external authorities. For example:
- Restaurants need approval from the Food Safety Department
- Medical clinics require approval from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
Step 10: Open a Corporate Bank Account
After obtaining your license, the final step is to open a corporate bank account in Dubai to manage your business transactions smoothly.
Conclusion
Acquiring a Dubai Mainland License is a straightforward process when following the correct steps. With the right business activity, structure, and documentation, you can establish your company in Dubai and benefit from its thriving economy. If you require assistance, consulting with a business setup expert can simplify the process and ensure compliance with UAE regulations. Contact For detail Montgo Health.
Frequently Ask Questions
Q. How much does a mainland license cost in Dubai?
A. The cost of a mainland license in Dubai ranges from AED 15,000 to AED 50,000, depending on the business activity, office space, and government fees. Additional costs may include visa fees and local service agent charges.
Q. What are the benefits of a mainland license in Dubai?
A. A Dubai mainland license allows 100% foreign ownership, access to the UAE market without restrictions, eligibility for government contracts, and the ability to operate anywhere in the UAE without a local sponsor in most sectors.
Q. Which trade license is best in Dubai?
A. The best trade license depends on your business type. Commercial licenses suit trading businesses, professional licenses are ideal for service-based firms, and industrial licenses are best for manufacturing. Mainland licenses offer market flexibility.
Q. How to start a mainland company in Dubai?
A. To start a mainland company in Dubai, you need to choose a business activity, register with Dubai Economy (DED), obtain a trade license, rent office space, apply for visas, and comply with regulatory approvals.
Q. Which is the cheapest trade license in the UAE?
A. The Freelance and E-commerce licenses are among the cheapest, starting from AED 5,750 to AED 8,000 in some free zones. Dubai mainland licenses typically start at AED 15,000 but vary by business type.
Q. What is the biggest trade in Dubai?
A. Oil and gas, tourism, real estate, logistics, and gold trading are among the biggest trades in Dubai. The city is also a global hub for import-export businesses, finance, and technology startups.
