Thinking of starting a business in the Dubai Mainland in 2025? With access to the entire UAE market, no restrictions on commercial activities, and eligibility for government contracts, Dubai mainland business setup remains a powerful choice. However, understanding the full scope of expenses is crucial. This guide explores the Dubai mainland company formation cost, setup steps, legal requirements, and how to launch your business efficiently.
What Is a Dubai Mainland Business Setup?
A mainland business setup in Dubai means incorporating your company under the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET)—formerly DED. It allows you to operate throughout the UAE, deal directly with government entities, and, in many cases, benefit from 100% foreign ownership following recent reforms
You get:
- Access to the local and international UAE markets
- Unlimited visas for employees and owners
- The ability to bid for government contracts
- Flexibility to scale operations across all emirates
Major Cost Components
- Trade License Fee
- Commercial license (e.g., trading/retail): AED 12,000–18,000 (up to ~25,000)
- Professional license (e.g., consulting, services): AED 10,000 – 12,000 (sometimes starting ~9,950)
- Industrial license (manufacturing): Around AED 20,000–25,000 or more
- Preliminary & Legal Approvals
- Trade name reservation: ~AED 620–660
- Initial approval: ~AED 150–310
- Memorandum of Association (MoA) notarization and document drafting: AED 500–1,200 depending on complexity
- Office Space (Ejari)
- Mandatory physical office in mainland setups:
- Flexi‑desk/shared workspace: ~AED 15,000/year upward
- Small private office: AED 25,000–40,000/year
- Premium offices: AED 50,000+ depending on location and size
- Local Sponsor/Service Agents
- Still necessary for select activities (even with the 100% ownership option):
- Annual fixed fees: AED 5,000–25,000 depending on service level and industry
- Visas & immigration
- Establishment/regulatory card: AED 1,800–2,500
- Investor visas (renews every 3 years): ~AED 3500–4,000 (can be AED 5,000+)
- Employee visas (each): AED 5,000-7,000 plus health screening and Emirates ID
- Medical and Emirates ID: ~AED 1,500–2,000 per person
6. Additional/Miscellaneous Fees
- Chamber of Commerce membership: AED 1,200–3,000
- Market fees: Typically 5% of office rent for shops, 20% for warehouses
- Document translation, municipality approvals, PRO services, bank, utilities, insurance: budget for AED 1,000–3,000 or more
Cost-Saving Tips for 2025
- Opt for a flexi‑desk or shared office space instead of leasing large private offices.
- Use setup consultants’ packages, which bundle licenses, approvals, visas, and office rent for a flat fee.
- Negotiate fixed rates with local sponsors when needed.
- Plan and stage visa issuance, adding team members only as operations grow.
- Be vigilant about hidden or recurring costs—bank fees, DEWA utilities, tax registration, audits, insurance, and annual renewals.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
- Reserve your trade name and obtain initial approval from DET.
- Draft and notarize the Memorandum of Association (and appoint a local sponsor if required).
- Secure your Ejari‑registered office lease.
- Apply for and pay for the business license.
- Get your establishment card and immigration card.
- Submit investor and employee visa applications, including health tests and Emirates ID workflows.
- Register with Dubai Chamber, open a corporate bank account.
- If required, register for VAT if your taxable revenue exceeds AED 375K/year.
FAQs
What’s the minimum realistic budget for a Dubai mainland setup in 2025?
Expect to invest around AED 30,000 at minimum—covering a basic license, shared office, and one visa.
Can I fully own a Dubai mainland company?
Yes—many professional and commercial activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, though some regulated sectors still require a local agent or sponsor
What license suits consultants or freelancers?
A professional license is ideal for service‑based activities; it’s typically cheaper and simpler than commercial licenses.
How long does the entire process take?
Usually between 5 to 10 business days, assuming all documents are in order and approvals go smoothly.
Are renewal fees lower than startup costs?
Yes. Annual renewals usually include license renewal, office rent, visa renewals, and any service agreements, typically less than the initial outlay.
Can I use a virtual address on the mainland?
No. Mainland setups mandate a physical, Ejari‑registered office. Virtual desks are permitted only in free zones.
When do I need to renew?
Preferably within one year of license issuance. Mainland renewal must be completed before expiration—late renewal incurs fines and can lead to blacklisting.
Conclusion
While the initial costs of starting a mainland business in Dubai can seem high in comparison to free zone setups. However, the advantages—such as the ability to access all UAE markets, flexibility with visas, the ability to win government contracts, and the opportunity to scale the business over the long term from Dubai—make this a viable option in 2025. As long as you budget smartly, plan effectively, and select the right license/office model, you should be able to establish a substantial mainland presence. Efficiently and sustainably.
