A Comprehensive Guide to Dubai Mainland Licenses
Dubai, a global hub for commerce and innovation, continues to attract entrepreneurs worldwide with its progressive business policies and robust economic infrastructure. The government’s recent initiatives, such as reducing costs, introducing instant licenses, and allowing 100% ownership for commercial trading, have further bolstered Dubai’s appeal as a business destination. This article provides a detailed overview of the process, benefits, and types of licenses required for setting up a company in Dubai Mainland.
Benefits of Setting Up a Company in Dubai Mainland
Choosing Dubai Mainland for your business setup offers numerous advantages:
- No strict requirement of minimum capital for incorporating a mainland company.
- No restriction in business activities, unlike the free zones.
- Owners of mainland businesses can open their offices anywhere in Dubai.
- 100% repatriation of capital and profits are allowed and exempted from corporate tax.
Understanding Business Licenses in Dubai Mainland
Before embarking on any business venture in Dubai, entrepreneurs must first secure a business license. Operating a company in Dubai Mainland without a trade license is a punishable offence. The Department of Economic Development (DED) is the regulatory authority responsible for issuing business licenses in Dubai Mainland. The DED offers three primary types of licenses:
1- Commercial License
2- Professional License
3- Industrial License
Legal Structures in Dubai Mainland
Choosing the right legal structure is a critical decision for any investor planning to incorporate a company in Dubai Mainland. The legal structure is determined based on the number of shareholders and the nature of the business. The DED primarily allows the following legal structures:
Sole Proprietorship
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Civil Company
Single Person LLC
Steps to Form a Company in Dubai Mainland
The process of setting up a company in Dubai Mainland involves several steps:
- Choose a business activity.
- Determine an appropriate legal structure.
- Get the company name approved.
- Obtain initial approval from DED.
- Obtain external approvals for special activities.
- Rent a space and submit the tenancy contract (Ejari).
- Obtain the license.


Requirements to Get a Technical Services Business License in Dubai
Availing Business Setup Services in Dubai
While the process of setting up a business in Dubai Mainland is generally straightforward, the wrong choice of activities or legal structures can derail your business plans. To avoid such issues, it’s advisable to hire professional business setup consultants.
Need Assistance?
PW offers comprehensive services covering essential requirements such as visa processing, document drafting, government liaising, bank account opening, and more. Their team of business setup consultants, PRO service executives, and compliance advisers ensures a hassle-free company incorporation process in Dubai.