Set Up Your Business in Dubai Mainland
A Dubai DED mainland license gives you unrestricted access to the UAE's largest market — operate from any Dubai location, bid on government contracts, and trade with any client. Arab First manages the complete process in as little as 48 hours.
The UAE's Most Prestigious Business Address
A DED license positions your company at the center of one of the world's most dynamic economies.
Prime Business Location
Operate from the heart of Dubai — the region's most prestigious business address
Unrestricted Market Access
Trade with any client anywhere in the UAE, government entities included
100% Foreign Ownership
No local partner needed since the 2021 FDI reform across most sectors
48-Hour Setup Available
Express DED (Dubai Economy & Tourism) licensing for eligible activities
Any Dubai Location
Rent anywhere in Dubai — Business Bay, DIFC, JLT, Downtown — with no restrictions
Bid on Gov Contracts
Only mainland companies can bid for Dubai government and semi-government contracts
Your Dubai Mainland License in 5 Steps
Activity Selection
Choose from 2,000+ DED-approved business activities. Arab First helps match the right activity to your business model.
Name Reservation
Reserve your company name via DED. We handle naming guidelines, Arabic transliteration, and approval.
MOA Drafting
Memorandum of Association drafted and attested. Our legal team ensures compliance with DED requirements.
License Application
Initial approval and trade license application submitted to Dubai Economy & Tourism (DED).
License Collection
Trade license issued. Visa quota established. You're ready to operate.
Dubai Mainland vs Freezone
| Feature | Dubai Mainland | Freezone |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Authority | DED (Dubai Economy & Tourism) | JAFZA / DAFZA / DIFC / etc. |
| Market Access | All UAE, government contracts | Import/export + within freezone only |
| Office Location | Anywhere in Dubai | Must be within freezone boundary |
| Visa Quota | Based on office size (flexible) | Capped per license type |
| Setup Cost | From AED 10,000 | From AED 12,000 |
| Foreign Ownership | 100% (most sectors) | 100% always |
Dubai Mainland License FAQs
What is a Dubai DED license?
A Dubai mainland license issued by Dubai Economy & Tourism (DED) allows you to conduct business anywhere in Dubai and the UAE. It gives unrestricted market access with no geographical limitation on where your clients or operations can be.
Do I need a local sponsor for a Dubai mainland company?
No — for most business activities, the 2021 FDI law allows 100% foreign ownership. A small number of strategic sectors still require a local service agent (not an equity partner). Arab First will advise which category applies to your activity.
How long does Dubai mainland company formation take?
Standard setup takes 3–5 working days. Arab First's express service can get eligible activities approved in 24–48 hours.
Can I open a corporate bank account with a DED license?
Yes. A DED mainland license is accepted by all major UAE banks. Arab First also assists with corporate bank account opening as part of our setup packages.
What is the minimum capital requirement for Dubai mainland?
Most business activities have no minimum capital requirement. A few regulated activities (banking, insurance) require substantive paid-up capital. Arab First will confirm what applies to your specific activity.
Get Your Dubai Mainland License Today
Our experts are ready to guide you through every step. Fill the form and we'll get back to you within 2 business hours.