The UAE continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for investors and entrepreneurs from around the world. With its strong economy, favorable tax structure, and world-class infrastructure, Dubai remains at the center of business activity in the region. One of the most essential steps to launching your business in the city is obtaining a Dubai Mainland License — a process that has been streamlined in recent years to attract even more foreign investment.

If you're planning to launch your company in 2025, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of getting a Dubai Mainland License with minimal hassle.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

The first step is to define your business activity. The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai provides a comprehensive list of over 2,000 licensed activities divided across commercial, industrial, and professional categories.

Selecting the correct activity is critical as it determines the type of license you’ll need:

• Commercial license – For trading or buying/selling goods

• Professional license – For service-based businesses like consultancies or IT

• Industrial license – For manufacturing or production activities

If your business falls into more than one category, you may need to apply for multiple activities under one license.

Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure

Once your business activity is chosen, you need to determine your legal entity or business structure. The most common types for mainland businesses are:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Ideal for most commercial businesses and allows multiple shareholders.

• Sole Establishment – Best for individual professionals who want 100% ownership.

• Branch of a Foreign Company – For international companies expanding into the UAE.

Your choice of structure will impact ownership, liability, and visa eligibility, so it's wise to consult a business setup expert before proceeding.

Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name

Next, you’ll need to reserve a unique trade name for your business. The name must adhere to DED guidelines, which prohibit offensive words, references to religion or government, and names already in use. You can check the availability of your desired business name on the DED portal or through a business consultant.

Once approved, the trade name is reserved for 6 months, giving you time to complete the remaining steps.

Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval from DED

With the business activity, legal structure, and trade name in place, you now need to apply for initial approval from the Department of Economic Development. This confirms that the DED has no objection to you starting your business in Dubai.

At this stage, you’ll submit:

• copyright copies of all partners

• Proposed business activity

• Chosen trade name

• Application form

If your business requires approval from external authorities (like medical clinics, law firms, or restaurants), these must be obtained at this point as well.

Step 5: Secure Office Space and Ejari

To obtain a mainland license, you must have a physical office address in Dubai. Whether you lease a full office, warehouse, or opt for a flexi-desk, the space must be registered with the Ejari system — Dubai’s tenancy contract registration platform.

Your office size will also determine how many visas your business can issue, making it a crucial factor for hiring plans.

Step 6: Draft and Notarize MOA (For LLCs)

If you are setting up an LLC, a Memorandum of Association (MOA) must be drafted and signed by all shareholders. This document outlines:

• Business activities

• Shareholding ratios

• Roles and responsibilities

The MOA must be notarized at a Dubai public notary office.

Step 7: Submit Final Documents and Pay Fees

Now, you’re ready to submit all your documents to the DED for final approval. These usually include:

• Initial approval certificate

• Trade name certificate

• MOA (if applicable)

• Ejari tenancy contract

• copyright copies

• Any external approvals (if required)

After submission, you’ll pay the applicable government and licensing fees. Costs can vary depending on your business type and office location.

Step 8: Receive Your Dubai Mainland License

Once approved and payment is complete, your official Dubai Mainland License will be issued by the DED. You can now apply for residency visas, open a corporate bank account, and begin full-scale operations in the UAE.

How Long Does the Process Take?

In most cases, the entire process can be completed within 7 to 10 working days, assuming all documents are in order. Delays can occur if approvals from external agencies are required or if the documents are incomplete.

Why Work With a Business Setup Expert?

Although the licensing process is relatively straightforward, it involves several legal steps, documentation, and government approvals. Any mistake can lead to delays or rejections. That's why many investors choose to work with experienced consultants.

A trusted partner like VA Zone ensures:

• Accurate documentation

• Fast-track approvals

• MOA drafting

• Office lease assistance

• Ongoing license renewals and compliance

Their expertise can save you both time and money, helping you focus on growing your business.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Dubai Mainland License in 2025 is a smart choice for any entrepreneur or investor looking to tap into the UAE’s thriving economy. With full market access, 100% ownership in many sectors, and a simple registration process, the mainland remains one of the best options for business setup.