If you are asking where to get your business licence in Dubai, the short answer is that it comes from one of two types of authority. Which one you go to depends entirely on the kind of company you are setting up and where you plan to do business. Once that is clear, the application itself is straightforward.
The two places a Dubai business licence comes from
| Authority | Issues licences for | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DED) | Mainland companies | Businesses trading directly with the UAE market, retail, F&B, contracting and local services |
| Free zone authorities (such as IFZA, DMCC and others) | Free zone companies | Trading, e-commerce, media, consulting and businesses serving clients outside the mainland |
How to get your Dubai business license, step by step
- Decide on your business activity, since this determines which licences and approvals you need.
- Choose your jurisdiction: mainland through the DET, or a specific free zone.
- Select a legal structure, such as a limited liability company or a free zone establishment.
- Reserve and register your trade name.
- Obtain initial approval from the relevant authority.
- Submit your documents and any activity-specific approvals.
- Receive your trade licence, then move on to your establishment card and visas.
Which licence type do you need?
Dubai licences are grouped by activity type, most commonly commercial for trading, professional for services, and industrial for manufacturing. Your activity decides your licence category, and some activities need extra approvals from other government bodies. Getting the activity right at the start avoids costly changes later.
The simplest way to get it right the first time
Choosing the wrong authority or activity is one of the most common and expensive setup mistakes. A short consultation confirms exactly which authority issues your licence, which activities to register, and what it will cost, before you commit. We then handle the application with the authority on your behalf.
Find out which licence and authority fit your business
Talk to a consultant