Mainland Company Formation
The Department of Economic Development (DED), in collaboration with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, serves as the primary regulatory authority overseeing business licensing and company formation in Dubai, UAE. Established to streamline and stimulate both industrial growth and trade—locally and internationally—the DED also conducts research and develops policies related to commercial and industrial activities within the emirate.
Thanks to ongoing institutional support and modernized procedures, setting up a new business or forming a company in Dubai has become more efficient and hassle-free than ever before.
Different Mainland Licensing Authorities in the UAE
- Department of Economic Development, Dubai
- Economic Development Department, Sharjah
- Department of Economic Development, Abu Dhabi
- Department of Economic Development, Ajman
- Other Emirates: Municipality/ Chamber of Commerce
Types of Mainland Licenses Issued for Business Setup in Dubai, UAE
When establishing a business in Dubai Mainland, the Department of Economic Development (DED) issues various types of licenses based on the nature of the business activity. Each license category is designed to suit specific commercial, professional, or industrial needs.
Trade License in Dubai
A Trade License is issued to a natural or juridical person intending to establish a business in Dubai for the purpose of conducting commercial activities involving the buying and selling of goods for profit. This license is essential for startups and businesses engaged in wholesale or retail trade, contracting, hospitality, transport, storage, and similar commercial enterprises.
Industrial License in Dubai, UAE
An Industrial License is issued to a natural or juridical person intending to establish a business in Dubai that involves manufacturing or industrial activities. This license is required for any investment activity focused on:
Exploring or utilizing natural resources, or
Transforming raw materials or semi-processed goods into finished products.
These transformations may involve changes in the structure, composition, or appearance of the materials using mechanical power, machinery, or equipment. The process may also include:
Segregation of materials
Filling or packaging of products
Assembling components into final goods
This license is typically required for businesses in sectors such as food processing, textiles, metal fabrication, plastics, chemicals, and other manufacturing industries.
Additional approvals from relevant government authorities, such as the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and Dubai Municipality, may be required depending on the nature of the industrial activity.
Professional License in Dubai, UAE
A Professional License is issued to a natural or juridical person aiming to establish a business in Dubai that is based on individual expertise, intellectual skills, or professional talent, rather than financial capital.
This type of license is ideal for individuals and firms offering specialized services, where the business relies on the personal qualifications and skills of the owner or partners.
Common Activities Covered Under a Professional License:
Engineering and Technical Consultancy
Management and Business Consultancy
Auditing and Accounting Services
Legal and Administrative Advisory
Medical and Healthcare Services
Educational and Training Services
IT and Software Solutions
Design and Creative Services
A professional license allows 100% foreign ownership, although a Local Service Agent (LSA) is required for liaising with government departments and regulatory bodies (without holding any equity in the business).
This license is well-suited for freelancers, specialists, and service-based firms seeking to operate in the UAE’s dynamic and growing economy.
Some business activities in Dubai require additional approvals from government entities beyond the Dubai DED. These include:
Activity: Road transport services, oil and gas-related activities, legal consultancy, telecommunications, and architectural & engineering services.
Approving Authority: Road and Transport Authority (RTA), H.H. The Ruler’s Court, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), and Dubai Municipality.
Department/Section: Commercial Activities Department, Department of Petroleum Affairs, Legal Affairs Department, Licensing Department, Building Department, and Veterinary Services Section.
Documents and Requirements for Mainland Company Formation in Dubai, UAE
- Passport Copy / Emirates ID of the shareholders, managers including the local sponsor.
- Attested and Legalized Power of Attorney required if shareholders are not available in the UAE.
- No Objection Certificate from the existing sponsor for the UAE visa holders.
- The activity of the company
- Trade name of the company
- Initial Approval from license authority.
- Tenancy contract / Ejari for the office space
- Legally translated Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Special approvals if required for specific activities.
Documents Required If the Shareholder Is a Foreign Company
Certificate of Registration of the company, duly legalized and attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.
Certificate of Good Standing of the company, also legalized and attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.
Memorandum and Articles of Association of the foreign company, duly legalized and attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.
Bank Reference Letter for the foreign company.
Board Resolution authorizing the establishment of the new company in the UAE, including the appointment of Directors, Managers, and Legal Representatives, duly attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in the country of origin.
Benefits of Starting a Business in Dubai, UAE
The UAE offers businesses and startups in Dubai unparalleled advantages within a highly developed and dynamic economy. With infrastructure and services that meet the highest international standards, Dubai ensures efficiency, quality, and exceptional support for enterprises. Key benefits include:
Free Enterprise System enabling ease of doing business and entrepreneurship.
Highly Developed Transport Infrastructure providing seamless connectivity locally and globally.
State-of-the-Art Telecommunications supporting advanced communication needs.
Sophisticated Financial and Services Sector offering comprehensive banking, insurance, and professional services.
World-Class Exhibition and Conference Venues attracting international business and networking opportunities.
High-Quality Office and Residential Accommodation catering to business and personal needs.
Reliable Utilities and Power Supply ensuring uninterrupted operations.
First-Class Hotels, Hospitals, Schools, and Shopping Facilities supporting a cosmopolitan and vibrant lifestyle.
Dubai truly combines business excellence with an exceptional quality of life, making it a prime destination for entrepreneurs and investors alike.
