License Service in UAE

The mainland license, also referred to as the onshore license, grants individuals the ability to conduct business both within the UAE and internationally without any restrictions. The issuance of this professional license in Dubai, UAE, is overseen by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Since June 2021, Dubai mainland license services require a local sponsor, except for foreign companies that can now be fully owned by foreign shareholders. According to Dubai Economy, there are over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities that can be 100% owned by foreigners.

These changes have been implemented to attract foreign direct investment in key economic sectors and foster entrepreneurship, including offering investor visas and potential citizenship over a 10-year period to talented individuals. The objective is to make the UAE a more welcoming destination for investment. Our team of experts in company formation can assist you in selecting the appropriate jurisdiction and business activity for your mainland entity. The first step in establishing a business in Dubai, or anywhere else in the UAE, is choosing a professional license. We provide guidance on the most cost-effective and suitable options based on your business practices. Various forms of licenses are available, including commercial, manufacturing, and technical.

For the purpose of this discussion, let’s focus on the commercial license. With a commercial license, you can engage in trading, import-export activities, and also offer certain services. Dubai and the UAE are highly sought-after locations for obtaining a commercial license due to their strategic position, surrounded by large markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The UAE is particularly popular among cargo companies, thanks to its multiple international airports and direct access to the Persian Gulf.

The streamlined process of incorporating a company in Dubai makes it easier for traders to commence operations with the assistance of a representative. In Dubai, every business operating there must acquire one of the available professional licenses. Commercial licenses are among the most common types, allowing businesses to engage in trade relationships. The Dubai limited liability company, which can be established under both mainland license services in Dubai and any free trade zone in the Emirate, is the most prevalent business entity operating under a commercial license.