What is a Dubai Mainland Company?

A Dubai Mainland Company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED), allowing it to operate freely across the UAE and internationally, with no trade restrictions within the local market.

What are the Types of Business Licenses Available in Dubai Mainland?

The key license types include commercial, industrial, and professional licenses. Each license caters to specific business activities, such as trading, manufacturing, or service-based businesses.

How Do I Choose the Right Legal Structure for My Mainland Company?

The choice depends on factors like the nature of your business, the number of shareholders, and ownership preferences. Options include LLCs, sole proprietorships, and branch offices. Consulting experts ensures the right selection.

Is It Mandatory to Have Office Space to Set Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Yes, physical office space is mandatory for mainland company registration. The size and location requirements vary based on your business activity and operational needs.

Can Foreign Nationals Fully Own a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Yes, foreign nationals can fully own businesses in most sectors, thanks to recent reforms. However, certain activities may still require a local sponsor or partner.

What are the Documents Required to Set Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Essential documents include passport copies of shareholders and managers, proof of address, business activity details, and lease agreements for office space. Additional documents may be required for specific activities.

How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

The cost typically ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 30,000, depending on factors like license type, office space, and additional approvals. Contact experts for an accurate estimate.

What Is the Process of Getting a Business License in Dubai Mainland?

The process involves selecting a business activity, registering your trade name, obtaining initial approval, finalizing office space, and applying for a business license through DED.

How Many Visas Can I Apply for a Company in Dubai Mainland?

The number of visas depends on your office space size and the business activity. Generally, every 80-100 sq. ft. of office space allows for one visa.

What are the Ongoing Compliance Requirements for a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Compliance includes renewing trade licenses annually, maintaining financial records, and adhering to UAE’s VAT regulations, if applicable. Regular audits may also be required depending on your business structure.

Commercial License In Dubai For Business Trade

What is a Commercial License in Dubai

A Commercial License in Dubai allows a business to legally trade, import, and export goods, or offer certain services within the UAE. It’s the ideal license for companies that want to buy and sell products locally or internationally. Due to Dubai’s strategic position connecting Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, a UAE Commercial License gives businesses access to global markets and helps them build strong trading opportunities across borders.

Difference Between Dubai Professional and Commercial License

A Professional License in Dubai is ideal for individuals and firms offering services or specialised skills, such as consultants, designers, accountants, or trainers. It’s about expertise, not products.

A Commercial License in Dubai, on the other hand, suits trading and product-based businesses that buy, sell, import, or export goods within the UAE and abroad. It’s the go-to option for companies engaged in commercial trade and retail operations.

In short:
👉 Professional = Service-based.
👉 Commercial = Product-based.

Benefits of Getting a Dubai Commercial License

Full Foreign Ownership

Own your business completely with no local sponsor required. The UAE Commercial License now allows 100% foreign ownership across most sectors, giving you full control, profit retention, and freedom to grow your company the way you envision.

Low Tax Advantage

Enjoy Dubai’s investor-friendly tax regime of 0% personal income tax, and only 9% corporate tax on mainland profits above AED 375,000. A commercial trade license in Dubai ensures more savings and smarter reinvestments for your business expansion.

Market Access Freedom

Whether mainland or free zone, a commercial license gives you complete access to local and international markets. Trade freely within the UAE or export globally through Dubai’s well-connected logistics and world-class infrastructure.

Strategic Global Gateway

Dubai’s unmatched location connects your business to major economies across Asia, Africa, and Europe. With a UAE Commercial License, you enter global trade routes supported by advanced ports, airports, and digital business ecosystems.

Legal & Credible

Get instant credibility with a legally recognised license. It’s your key to open corporate bank accounts, sign contracts confidently, and build trust with clients and suppliers worldwide, a must for every serious entrepreneur.

Multi-Activity Flexibility

Operate up to ten related activities under one commercial license. From trading to logistics, your company can scale faster while staying compliant, all managed seamlessly under a single unified business license.

Easy Visa Sponsorship

Simplify employee and family visa processes. Your commercial trade license in Dubai allows smooth visa sponsorship for owners, staff, and dependents - helping you build your team and life in the UAE.

Secure a UAE Commercial License: Key Steps

EASY STEPS TO OBTAIN A COMMERCIAL LICENSE IN DUBAI

01. Choose Business Activity

Pick what your company will trade or sell. The right activity defines your license type.

02. Select Legal Structure

Decide your company type from Sole Proprietorship, LLC, or Branch based on your ownership goals.

03. Pick Your Jurisdiction

Choose Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore. Each offers different trade rights and ownership flexibility.

04. Reserve Trade Name

Choose a clear, unique business name that follows Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) rules.

05. Get Initial Approval

Apply for pre-approval from DET or your Free Zone authority to proceed with the setup process.

06. Draft Memorandum Agreement

Prepare and notarise your MoA. It defines ownership, responsibilities, and company objectives clearly.

07. Finalise Office Space

Secure your business address. A physical office or Flexi-desk registered through Ejari (for the mainland).

08. Apply for License

Submit all documents and fees to the DET or Free Zone authority for your commercial license issuance.

09. Launch Your Business

Once approved, receive your Commercial Trade License in Dubai and officially start operating your company.

Getting a Commercial Trade License in Dubai Starts With These Documents

Passport copies of all shareholders and partners
Visa copies or UAE entry stamp (for foreign applicants)
Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
Trade name reservation certificate
Initial approval certificate from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Local Service Agent agreement (notarised)
Tenancy contract or Ejari for the business premises
NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the current sponsor (if applicable)
Duly filled application form for the commercial license
External approvals (if the business activity requires permissions from specific authorities)

Frequently Asked Questions

A Commercial License in Dubai legally authorises businesses to conduct trading activities, such as buying, selling, distributing, and storing goods within the UAE and internationally. It is essential for industries such as Retail, Logistics, General Trading, E-commerce, and Brokerage, enabling companies to establish themselves in vibrant markets like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and RAK. Types of Licenses Under the Commercial License Category in the UAE: General Trading License: This is for businesses dealing with multiple unrelated products.
E-Commerce License:For companies engaged in online trading.
Import/Export License: It is focused on the movement of international goods.
Specialised Trading License: This is for niche industries such as luxury goods or industrial materials. With a Commercial Trade License, businesses can make the most of the UAE’s strategic location as a global trade hub and business-friendly environment.

A Commercial License in the UAE covers a wide range of industries, allowing businesses to operate legally within the UAE and internationally. Key industries include:
Retail: Consumer goods, electronics, and fashion.
Logistics: Freight forwarding, warehousing, and distribution.
General Trading: Import/export and specialised trading.
E-Commerce: Online platforms and digital marketplaces.
Real Estate: Brokerage, buying, and leasing properties.
Construction: Trading building materials and equipment.
Food and Beverage: Packaged, fresh, and processed food trading.
Automotive: Vehicles, spare parts, and accessories.
Health and Beauty: Cosmetics, personal care, and medical equipment.
Hospitality: Hotel and restaurant supply trading.

Yes, businesses can operate multiple activities under a single Commercial License in Dubai, provided the activities fall within the same category or are related. The DET and free zone authorities allow companies to group similar activities under one license to simplify operations and reduce costs. For example: A business dealing in electronics trading can include accessories trading under the same license. A General Trading License enables businesses to trade in multiple unrelated products, offering greater flexibility. If the activities are unrelated or belong to different categories, additional approvals may be required from the relevant authorities. Free zones also offer customisable license packages that allow multiple activities, making it easier for businesses to scale operations within the UAE’s dynamic markets.

No, you can’t obtain a Commercial License in Dubai mainland without a physical office, as the DET requires an Ejari-registered tenancy contract. However, UAE Free Zones offer flexible options such as Flexi-desks, shared workspaces, and virtual offices that fulfil the same requirement. These alternatives make it easier and more affordable for startups or remote businesses to establish their presence in Dubai without committing to a full-scale office setup.

The cost of a Commercial License in Dubai varies depending on factors such as your chosen jurisdiction (mainland or free zone), business activity, visa quota, and office space requirements. While the exact amount differs case by case, partnering with a trusted setup consultant ensures accurate estimation, transparent fees, and a faster approval process for your UAE commercial license.

Yes, you can. A Commercial License in Dubai allows you to include several related trading activities under one license, usually up to ten. Just make sure all activities fall within the same category and are approved by the relevant authority before starting operations.

Running a business in Dubai without a valid Commercial License is a violation. Authorities can issue hefty fines (often starting from AED 5,000 and increasing for repeat cases), and in serious or repeated violations, your business can be suspended, blacklisted, or shut down. Always get your license first to stay compliant.

Commercial License in Dubai