Simplified Mainland Licences in Dubai

Dubai Mainland Licences Made Simple with Estabia

When setting up your business in the UAE, obtaining the right mainland licence is crucial. At Estabia, we simplify the process, helping you select the most suitable licence—be it commercial, professional, or industrial—and ensuring your business complies with Dubai's legal requirements.

📞 Contact us today to find the best licence for your business!

Why Do You Need a Mainland Trade Licence?

A mainland trade licence validates your business as a legal entity in the UAE, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. Whether you're establishing a business in Dubai’s mainland or free zone, acquiring the correct licence is the first step to success.

The type of licence you need depends on:

  • Business activities you intend to conduct.
  • Company structure (LLC, sole establishment, etc.).
  • Jurisdiction where you’ll operate.

Let Estabia guide you through this essential process with ease.

Types of Mainland Licences in Dubai

🏢 1. Professional Trade Licence

The Professional Trade Licence is for businesses offering specialized services, such as:

  • Consultancy (business, legal, or HR).
  • Professional services (engineering, IT, etc.).
  • Craftsmen and artisans.

With this licence, you can operate under these structures:

  • LLC: A local sponsor holds 51%, but you retain operational control.
  • Civil Company or Sole Establishment: 100% foreign ownership, with a local service agent (LSA) to handle legal formalities.

This licence ensures that you’re qualified to provide professional services in Dubai’s mainland.

🛒 2. Commercial Trade Licence

If your business involves trading goods or commodities, you’ll need a Commercial Trade Licence. This licence covers:

  • General trading and specialized trading.
  • Sectors like retail, construction, healthcare, or real estate.
  • Broadcasting, rental transportation, and communication services.

With Estabia’s expertise, we’ll ensure you choose the correct type of commercial trade licence that matches your business activities.

🏭 3. Industrial Trade Licence

For businesses in manufacturing or industrial activities, the Industrial Trade Licence is essential. It allows:

  • Production using natural materials or resources.
  • Operating factories or processing plants in the UAE.

Approval from additional authorities, such as the Ministry of Economy or Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, may be required. Estabia will manage all approvals, ensuring smooth operations for your industrial venture.

Steps to Obtain a Mainland Trade Licence in Dubai

Securing a mainland licence through the Dubai Economic Department (DED) involves several steps:

1️⃣ Determine Your Business Category

Choose between professional, commercial, or industrial categories.

2️⃣ Define Your Business Activity

Identify your primary business activities to align with your trade licence.

3️⃣ Select Your Business Structure

Decide on the legal structure of your company, such as:

  • LLC (Limited Liability Company)
  • Sole Establishment
  • Civil Company

4️⃣ Choose a Trade Name

Select a unique and compliant trade name that reflects your brand. The DED will register your trade name, ensuring it adheres to UAE guidelines.

5️⃣ Sign a Memorandum of Association (MoA)

Depending on your business structure, you may need to sign an MoA or Local Service Agent (LSA) Agreement. This step is mandatory for:

  • Limited Partnerships
  • LLCs
  • Public or Private Joint Stock Companies

Estabia will guide you through all these steps and ensure a hassle-free process.

Why Partner with Estabia?

Setting up a business and choosing the right trade licence in Dubai can be complex. Here’s how Estabia makes it easier:

✅ Expert Guidance: Our team identifies the most suitable licence for your business activities.

✅ Compliance Assurance: We handle all legal and regulatory requirements, ensuring full compliance with Dubai’s business laws.

✅ End-to-End Support: From applying for licences to obtaining permits, we take care of everything.

✅ Tailored Solutions: Every business is unique, and we provide solutions that fit your specific needs.

FAQs on Mainland Trade Licences

Q: Can I own 100% of my mainland business?
A: Yes, with recent changes in UAE laws, foreign investors can now own 100% of their mainland businesses in many industries.

Q: How long does it take to get a mainland trade licence?
A: The process typically takes 7–10 business days, depending on approvals and required documentation.

Q: Do I need a physical office for a mainland licence?
A: Yes, a physical office space is mandatory for mainland businesses, and the size must correspond to the number of visas issued.

Ready to Secure Your Mainland Licence?

With years of expertise and a dedicated team, Estabia ensures that you get the right mainland licence for your business while complying with UAE regulations.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward your business success in Dubai!