Dubai is one of the top business destinations in the world, attracting thousands of entrepreneurs and investors every year. In fact, the UAE ranked 1st in the Arab world for ease of doing business according to the World Bank. If you’re planning to start a business in Dubai Mainland, you’ll need a license from the Department of Economic Development (DED).
The DED license is your key to legally operating a business in Dubai Mainland. It allows you to trade, provide services, or manufacture products while ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. The DED offers over 2,000 business activities under different categories, including commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism licenses. Choosing the right activity is essential, as it determines the type of business you can run, and any additional approvals required.
Let us walk you through the DED license activities list in the UAE to help you understand the options available and how to choose the right one for your business.
What is a DED License?
A DED license is an official permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai, allowing businesses to operate legally in Dubai Mainland. It defines the nature of a business and ensures that it complies with UAE laws and regulations. The DED license is required for any company looking to engage in commercial, professional, industrial, or tourism-related activities within Dubai Mainland.
Types of DED Licenses in Dubai & Their Business Activities
The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai issues different types of licenses based on the nature of business activities. Each license allows businesses to operate within the Dubai Mainland and conduct specific activities. Below are the main DED license types and the business activities they cover.
1. Commercial License
A Commercial License in UAE is required for businesses involved in buying, selling, and trading goods and commodities. This is one of the most common types of licenses in Dubai, allowing companies to engage in local and international trade.
Popular Commercial Activities:- General Trading (allows multiple trading activities under one license)
- E-commerce Business (online sales & digital marketplaces)
- Real Estate Brokerage & Property Management
- Automobile Trading & Spare Parts Sales
- Import & Export of Goods
- Supermarkets & Grocery Stores
- Clothing, Fashion, and Apparel Trading
- Electronics & Mobile Phone Trading
- Jewelry & Precious Metal Trading
- Furniture & Home Decor Trading
- Building Materials & Hardware Trading
- Medical Equipment & Pharmaceutical Trading
- Foodstuff Trading & Distribution
- Oil & Gas Equipment Trading
- Petroleum & Lubricants Trading
Entrepreneurs looking to start a retail shop, trading business, e-commerce store, or import/export company will need a DED Commercial License.
2. Professional License
A Professional License in UAE is issued to businesses that provide services, consultancy, or skilled expertise rather than trading physical products. This license is ideal for freelancers, consultants, and specialized service providers.
Popular Professional Activities:- IT & Software Development Services
- Marketing, Branding & Advertising Agencies
- Legal & Business Consultancy
- Accounting & Auditing Services
- Medical & Healthcare Services (e.g., clinics, physiotherapy centres)
- Education & Training Centers
- Architectural & Interior Design Services
- Engineering Consultancy
- Freelancing & Creative Services (e.g., graphic design, content writing)
- Recruitment & HR Consultancy
- Management Consultancy & Market Research
- Fitness & Wellness Services (e.g., personal training, yoga studios)
- Translation & Language Services
- Event Planning & Public Relations Services
- Corporate & Secretarial Services
This license is ideal for freelancers, consultants, service-based businesses, and skilled professionals who want to provide expert services in Dubai Mainland.
3. Industrial License
An Industrial License in UAE is required for businesses involved in the manufacturing, processing, and production of goods. These businesses typically require warehouse space, industrial approvals, and factory setups.
Popular Industrial Activities:- Food & Beverage Manufacturing (e.g., bakeries, packaged foods)
- Textile & Garment Production (e.g., clothing factories, fabric mills)
- Furniture & Wood Manufacturing
- Metal & Steel Fabrication
- Plastic & Chemical Manufacturing
- Printing & Packaging Industry
- Electronics & Equipment Manufacturing
- Automobile Parts & Accessories Manufacturing
- Cosmetics & Skincare Production
- Paper & Stationery Manufacturing
- Construction Materials Manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical & Medical Equipment Manufacturing
- Petroleum & Oil Refining
Entrepreneurs planning to set up factories, production units, or large-scale manufacturing plants need a DED Industrial License.
4. Tourism License
Dubai is a top global tourist destination, welcoming over 16 million visitors annually. A Tourism License in UAE is required for businesses involved in travel, hospitality, and entertainment services.
Popular Tourism Activities:- Travel Agency & Tour Operators
- Hotel & Resort Management
- Event Management & Entertainment Services
- Car Rental & Chauffeur Services
- Desert Safari & Adventure Tourism
- Yacht Rental & Water Sports Services
- Theme Parks & Amusement Centers
- Luxury Tourism & VIP Concierge Services
- Cultural & Heritage Tour Organizers
- Hajj & Umrah Package Providers
- Medical Tourism & Wellness Retreats
- Cruise & Ferry Services
Entrepreneurs looking to open a travel agency, event planning company, or luxury tour business need a DED Tourism License.
How to Obtain DED License for Your Business Activity?
Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland requires a DED license. The process is straightforward but involves multiple steps, including choosing the right business activity, submitting documents, and obtaining approvals. Here's a step-by-step process:
1. Choose Your Business Activity
The first step is to decide what type of business you want to start. Dubai's DED License Activities List in UAE includes over 2,000 business activities, categorized under:
Choose an activity that aligns with your business goals and ensure that it does not require additional approvals from other government entities.
2. Choose a Legal Structure for Your Business
Your business's legal structure will determine ownership rules, liability, and operational scope. Common business structures in Dubai Mainland include:
- Sole Proprietorship (Fully owned by one individual)
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) (Most popular structure with multiple shareholders)
- Civil Company (For professional service businesses)
- Branch of a Foreign Company (Extension of an existing business outside the UAE)
Most businesses opt for an LLC as it allows 100% foreign ownership in many sectors.
3. Register a Trade Name
Your company needs a unique trade name approved by the DED. The name should not contain offensive or religious terms and be relevant to your business activity. You can check the availability of your preferred name through the DED's official website.
4. Get Initial Approval from DED
Once you have finalized your business activity, legal structure, and trade name, apply for initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). This approval confirms that the UAE government has no objections to your business setup.
5. Choose a Business Location & Obtain Tenancy Contract (Ejari)
All DED-licensed businesses in Dubai must have a physical office or workspace. You must rent an office or a virtual desk (depending on business type). Register your tenancy contract with Ejari (Dubai’s rental registration system).
6. Receive Your DED License & Start Operations
After document submission and payment, DED will issue your business license within a few days. However, depending on your business activity you may require additional approval and permits.
7. Apply for Visas & Corporate Bank Account
With your DED license, you can apply for residence visas, an establishment card, and open a corporate bank account.
DED License Cost in Dubai
The cost of obtaining a DED license in Dubai starts from AED 12,900 for a mainland business setup, while free zones have their own customized packages. The total cost varies depending on several factors, including the chosen business activity, office space requirements, number of visas, and external approvals. Additional expenses such as trade name registration, initial approval, tenancy contract (Ejari), MOA/LSA agreement, and government fees may also impact the final cost.
To get the best price and a hassle-free setup, Shuraa Business Setup provides tailored business packages, ensuring a smooth licensing process with expert guidance.
Why Choose Shuraa Business Setup for Your DED License?
Choosing the right business activity from the DED License Activities List in UAE is a crucial step in setting up your company in Dubai Mainland. With so many options available, selecting the right one ensures smooth operations and legal compliance. However, making the wrong choice can lead to delays, extra costs, or unnecessary restrictions on your business.
To avoid complications, getting expert help is the best way forward. At Shuraa Business Setup, we provide complete assistance—from choosing the right business activity to handling approvals, documentation, and licensing. Our team ensures a quick and hassle-free business setup experience.
So, don't let complex procedures hold you back. Contact Shuraa Business Setup today for expert guidance and start your business in Dubai with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the DED License Activities List in UAE?
The DED License Activities List includes over 2,000 approved business activities that companies can choose from when applying for a Dubai Mainland license.
2. How do I choose the right business activity for my DED license?
You should select an activity that aligns with your business goals and legal requirements. Consulting a business setup expert like Shuraa can help you make the right choice.
3. Can You Get a DED License Without an Office?
Yes, Dubai’s Virtual License or Instant License allows certain businesses to operate without a physical office for the first year, reducing costs significantly.
4. Do all business activities require external approvals?
No, but some activities (e.g., healthcare, education, food trading) need approvals from specific government departments before getting a DED license.
