Seeking the fastest means to establish a business in Dubai? To commence with, you must learn the fundamentals, including how to acquire a license for business. You’re not wrong if the process appears confusing or complicated. To explain everything in an easily understood, obvious approach that fits how modern business functions.
It is your step-by-step guide to share the crucial steps to obtain a business license. We share an effective online approach that takes a short time instead of months to acquire approvals and lets you set up your business from anywhere in the world.
Business License Procedure in the UAE: An Overview
Getting the right business license is one of the most important things you need to do to start a business in Dubai. It is a legal document that authorizes you to carry on some business activities within the Emirates.
It also ensures that companies act according to the law and the ordinances in the region, which safeguards both businesses and the regional economy.
The government of Dubai has simplified obtaining a UAE business license to attract talent and investment from worldwide.
Entrepreneurs may select from a number of different sorts of licenses that are specific to their business activity. Each sort of license is made to meet the specific needs of a certain industry, giving business owners more options and making things clearer.
UAE Business License Costs and Pre-requisites in 2025
The price of getting a business license in Dubai depends on a number of things, like where the business is located, what kind of license it needs, such as an online business license in Dubai, and what the firm needs. Here is a list of the primary costs:
Business License Charges
How much does it cost to get a company license in Dubai? Mainland and Free Zone business in Dubai.
Mainland Business License Charges:
The amount of the fees depends on the type of activity and the size of the organization. They can be anywhere from ten thousand to AED twenty thousand. There may be extra fees for licenses and approvals.
Free Zone Business License Charges:
Cost is usually between AED twelve thousand and AED twenty-five thousand, which includes the cost of business setup. Free zones have perks, such as allowing foreigners to own the property entirely and not having to pay taxes. However, fees may be different for each free zone and each activity.
Leasing Workspace Expense:
Some company licenses require you to maintain office premises, particularly on the mainland. According to the dimensions and location of the workplace, costs can be anywhere from fifteen thousand to fifty thousand AED every year. Many free zones have flexible workspaces or virtual offices that might cost between five thousand and AED fifteen thousand a year.
UAE Visa Expenses:
The cost of a Dubai business visa is from three thousand to six thousand AED for each employee or shareholder. It covers the costs of work permits and residency visas. Family visas, medical coverage, and other associated services may cost extra.
Other Service Costs:
Sponsorship Costs:
If you want to do business on the mainland, you could require a local sponsor service. It costs between five thousand and AED fifteen thousand a year. Some free zones let foreigners own an entire business, and you don’t need a sponsor.
PRO Service Costs:
Usually, it costs two thousand to five thousand AED to get documents processed, approvals, and other government services.
Attestation Costs:
Depending on the documents, attestation of legal documents might cost between five hundred and fifteen hundred AED. The entire cost of securing a business license in Dubai can be anything from fifteen thousand to fifty thousand AED, depending on the business type you have, where it is located, and any other criteria.
Pre-requisites for UAE Business License
It is not that difficult to register a business in the UAE. To obtain a UAE business license, you must have the following documents:
- A filled-out application for a business license.
- An MOA signed by all of the company’s investors and partners.
- Approval of the corporate name from the UAE’s Registry Authority.
- Copies of all investors’ and partners’ passports.
Acquiring a UAE Business License for Enterprises Simplified: Step-by-Step Stages
Entrepreneurship in the UAE is engaging, but the steps to obtain a business license are daunting at first. With the right guidance, it becomes more manageable to understand what steps to take to secure a business license. Below is a step-by-step guide to assist you in establishing your business in the UAE:
Identify Business Activity and Structure:
Find out what kind of business you want to run and choose the proper legal form. You can choose to be a single owner, a partner, or a branch of a foreign corporation.
Selecting a Business Name:
Choose a trade name for your firm that is both distinctive and relevant. Make sure it follows the naming rules provided by the DED authorities.
Getting Started Approval:
Get first clearance for the things your business performs. This phase is about making sure that your business follows the rules in your area.
Getting the MOA Ready:
For some types of businesses, like LLCs, write a Memorandum of Association that explains the company’s constitution and the rights and responsibilities of its stockholders.
Regional Service Intermediary or Sponsor:
Depending on how your firm is set up legally, you could require a local sponsor service or a representative. Al Buraq can assist you in identifying a local service agent or provide you with advice on how to set up your business legally so you can secure a license.
What Al Buraq Can Do for You?
At Al Buraq, we don’t only provide services; we are proud to be your trusted advisor in achieving corporate success. Our multiple services are carefully designed to make your business trip to Dubai easier and more efficient.
We offer qualified assistance at every step, from registering your business correctly and following all the rules to making smart business decisions. With Al Buraq, you don’t just get around Dubai’s business world; you do well in it. Let us be the bridge that leads you to success.
FAQs
Is it possible to receive a company license in Dubai if I don’t live there?
Yes, you may start your business from anywhere with a Free Zone, and you don’t need to go to the UAE or get a residency visa. It’s perfect for business owners who live outside the UAE.
What papers do you need to start an enterprise in Dubai?
You need at least a copy of your passport, proof of mailing address, and an application form. Depending on how you set things up, you may require further paperwork, such as an MOA or shareholder information.
Can I start an enterprise in Dubai if I work in the UAE?
Yes, of course. You don’t need a NOC to start a business in the Free Zone. You can keep working while your business gets off the ground.
Can you transfer a company license to Dubai?
Most of the time, business licenses can’t be transferred. You will need to follow a formal process that includes getting permission from the right authorities if you want to change ownership.
Final Words
A few important steps to obtain a business license to start a successful enterprise are crucial in one of the fastest-growing markets in the world. Entrepreneurs may easily get through the system if they know what kinds of licenses are available, carefully follow the application process, and have the right paperwork ready. Dubai is a great place to invest and grow because it has an ideal setting, low taxes, and favorable standards that are supportive of business.
