Commercial License in Mainland Dubai

Dubai Mainland Commercial License

A Commercial License in Mainland Dubai, issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), enables businesses to operate freely throughout Dubai’s mainland. This license is crucial for legal compliance and unlocking growth opportunities in Dubai’s dynamic and competitive market.

Different Types of Mainland Commercial Licenses in Dubai

Commercial License: Suited for businesses trading goods, including retail, import, export, and distribution. It permits trading within the UAE and internationally.
Professional License: For service-based businesses like consultancy, IT, engineering, design, healthcare, and skilled trades. It allows legal operation and, in some cases, full ownership.
Industrial License: Required for manufacturing and industrial activities. It enables importing raw materials and exporting finished products, with a physical office or warehouse mandatory in Dubai.

Steps to Acquire a Dubai Mainland Commercial License

Select Your Business Activity and Legal Structure
Choose your business activity and legal form (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC) based on your plans.
Choose a Trade Name
Select a unique business name that follows the Department of Economic Development (DED) naming rules.
Submit Initial Approval Application
Apply electronically for initial approval through the DED website.
Secure a Commercial Space
Rent an office or shop in Dubai and register the tenancy contract with Ejari.
Prepare Required Documentation
Collect all necessary documents such as shareholder agreements, IDs, and initial approvals.
Complete Legal Agreements
Finalize legal documents like the Memorandum of Association (MoA) or local service agent agreements if needed.
Obtain Additional Approvals
Get approvals from government bodies related to your business activity, if applicable.
Pay License Fees
Pay the DED fees and other government charges.
Receive Your License
Once approved, collect your official Dubai Mainland Commercial License from the DED.

Government Department

We work closely with all government agencies

Start Your Business with a Commercial License in Mainland Dubai

Thinking of launching a company in Dubai? A mainland business license is one of the most flexible and in-demand options for entrepreneurs and investors. Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), this license allows businesses to trade freely across the UAE and internationally.

Whether you’re planning to run a retail store, import/export company, or distribution business, getting the right license is your first essential step.

What Is a Commercial License in Dubai?

A commercial license permits companies to carry out trading activities, including selling goods, importing and exporting products, and operating retail or wholesale businesses. This type of license is ideal for entrepreneurs aiming to serve clients across the UAE without geographical restrictions.

To operate legally in Dubai’s mainland, your company must be registered through the DED and have a physical office space within the emirate.

Key Advantages of a Mainland Commercial License

Choosing a company license in Dubai mainland offers several business benefits:

100% foreign ownership available for many business activities
Access to government contracts and tenders
No limitations on the number of visas, depending on office size
Freedom to open branches anywhere in the UAE

You’ll also have the opportunity to work with both public and private sector clients.

Types of Business Activities Covered

A Dubai trade license under the commercial category can be used for:

General trading
Import and export
Retail businesses
Wholesale and distribution
Online trading (with additional approvals)

Depending on the business activity, additional approvals from regulatory bodies may be required.

Estimated Cost of a Commercial License

The cost to start a business in Dubai mainland varies depending on your activity, visa quota, and office location. On average, here’s what to expect:

Item	Estimated Cost (AED)
Trade name reservation	500 – 1,000
Initial approval	120 – 135
License issuance	10,000 – 15,000
Office space (Ejari)	From 12,000
Chamber of Commerce fee	1,200 – 3,000
Visa (per applicant)	1,000 – 1,500
Establishment card	1,000 – 2,000
Service provider/consultancy	5,000 – 7,500

For a more tailored estimate, use our Business Setup Cost Calculator.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Licensed

Define your business activity
Choose your legal structure (LLC, sole establishment, etc.)
Reserve a trade name
Get initial approval from DED
Secure office space and register Ejari
Submit documents and pay fees
Receive your license

This process typically takes 5–7 business days, provided all documentation is complete.

Why Work with Broeck Consultancy?

Navigating Dubai’s licensing process can be complex. At Broeck Consultancy, we offer end-to-end support for startups and expanding businesses. Our consultants help you:

Choose the right business activity
Avoid costly errors
Complete all legal documentation
Estimate and reduce setup costs

We’ve helped hundreds of clients successfully register their mainland companies with minimal hassle.

Let’s Get Started

Ready to launch your business? Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or a global investor, we’ll help you secure your commercial license in Dubai and get your business running fast. For expert guidance, contact us today through our consultation form.