So, what's the real cost to set up a mainland company in Dubai? You'll often see a general range between AED 15,000 to AED 35,000. But this figure can definitely shift depending on your specific business activity, how much office space you need, and the number of visas you're applying for.
Getting a handle on these initial expenses is your first real step towards a successful launch in one of the world's most dynamic business hubs.
Decoding Your Initial Setup Costs
When you're planning a business launch in Dubai, you need a clear financial picture from the get-go. Vague estimates just won't cut it for serious budgeting. That means breaking down the specific government fees and administrative charges you should expect right from day one.
Think of this not just as a list of numbers, but as a strategic guide. It’ll help you see the difference between mandatory, fixed expenses and the variable costs where you might have some wiggle room to optimise your spending.
This initial investment is all about laying a solid foundation for your company to become a legal, operational entity. Each component is critical. These foundational costs typically cover things like reserving your trade name, getting the initial green light from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and getting your company’s legal documents in order.
Key Foundational Expenses
When you start adding up your mainland company setup cost, there are a few non-negotiable fees that form the baseline of your budget. These are the government-mandated charges every new business has to cover.
- Trade Name Registration: Securing your business name is the first official step. The fee isn't huge, but it's absolutely essential for legal recognition.
- Initial Approval Certificate: This is the document from the DET that confirms the government has no objection to your proposed business. It's your permission to proceed.
- MOA Attestation: If you're setting up an LLC, getting your Memorandum of Association drafted and notarised is a mandatory legal step. It clearly outlines your company's structure and the responsibilities of each shareholder.
A huge factor influencing the mainland company setup Dubai cost is the freedom it gives you. Unlike free zone entities, a mainland company can operate freely across the entire UAE. The total investment is also shaped by office leasing needs, how many visas you're allocating, and various government licensing fees. For a deeper dive into these cost dynamics, it's worth exploring more about Dubai mainland company formation.
To give you a clearer idea, here’s a quick summary of the primary, non-negotiable fees you can expect.
Initial Dubai Mainland Company Setup Cost Breakdown
| Expense Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade Name Registration | AED 620 |
| Initial Approval Certificate | AED 150 |
| MOA Attestation Fee | AED 900 |
| Tasheel/Government Fees | AED 1,000 – 1,500 |
| Commercial Licence Issuance | Varies by activity |
Keep in mind, these are just the initial government charges. For a much more detailed breakdown, you can check out our complete guide on the cost of setting up a business in Dubai.
At PRO Deskk, we are specialists in mainland company formation in Dubai, Sharjah & Abu Dhabi, offering cost-effective business setup solutions tailored to your needs. Our hands-on expertise ensures a clear, transparent process from start to finish, helping international entrepreneurs enjoy UAE tax benefits.
Need a free consultation? WhatsApp us today or give us a call at +971-54-4710034 for 24/7 support. We're always here when you need us.
How Your Business Choices Impact Total Cost
The initial government fees you see advertised are really just the starting point of your financial journey. Several critical decisions you'll make along the way will have a big impact on your total mainland company setup Dubai cost, turning a baseline estimate into a final, real-world figure.
These choices can seriously alter your budget before you even open your doors for business.
The single biggest factor is your business activity. A general trading licence, for example, which lets you trade a wide variety of goods, almost always comes with a higher price tag than a specialised professional services licence. Why? Because certain activities need extra approvals from different government ministries, and each one adds another layer of cost and complexity.
Think of it this way: a marketing consultancy might only need approvals from the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). But a healthcare clinic? That would require sign-offs from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), which is a far more intensive and expensive procedure.
Legal Structure and Ownership
Your chosen legal structure is another key cost driver. A Limited Liability Company (LLC), the most common choice for entrepreneurs, involves drafting and attesting a Memorandum of Association (MOA), which has its own set of fees. On the other hand, a Sole Establishment for a professional service might have a simpler setup, potentially lowering those initial legal costs.
And while the UAE now permits 100% foreign ownership for most activities, some strategic sectors still require a Local Service Agent (LSA). The annual fee for an LSA is a recurring operational cost you must factor into your long-term budget, completely separate from the one-time setup expenses.
The Impact of Visas on Your Budget
The number of residence visas your company needs will directly and substantially bump up your costs. Each visa application comes with its own string of fees, including:
- Immigration Fees: For the application and processing.
- Medical Fitness Test: A mandatory step for every applicant.
- Emirates ID Application: Required for all residents.
- Visa Stamping: The final step to secure your residency.
A common scenario we see involves a startup planning for two investor visas and three employee visas. This decision alone can add AED 20,000 to AED 35,000 or more to the initial setup cost—a significant sum that entrepreneurs often underestimate.
At PRO Deskk, our expertise as specialists in Mainland Company Formation extends across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. We are also specialists in Golden Visa on Property and Investor Visa, providing tailored, cost-effective solutions that account for these variables right from the start. Our team specialises in navigating the complexities of corporate PRO services, ensuring you get a clear and accurate budget with no hidden surprises.
For a free consultation to map out your specific costs, WhatsApp us today or call +971-54-4710034.
Digging into Office and Local Partner Fees
Once you’ve sorted out the initial government and licensing costs, two other major expenses will pop up on your radar: your office rent and any fees for a local partner. These are a big part of your ongoing mainland company setup Dubai cost.
Unlike many other business hubs around the world, having a physical office in Dubai for a mainland company isn't just a suggestion—it's the law. This is a fundamental piece of your company's legal standing.
You'll need a tenancy contract, known here as an Ejari, to finalise your trade licence application. Without it, your application hits a dead end. This rule immediately affects your budget, making rent a significant and recurring expense you have to plan for.
Understanding What Your Office Will Cost
How much you'll pay for office space in Dubai can swing wildly depending on where you set up shop. A fancy address on Sheikh Zayed Road or in Business Bay will obviously cost you a premium. On the other hand, you can find more wallet-friendly spots in areas like Deira or Al Qusais.
For a lot of startups and smaller businesses, a full-blown office isn't really necessary right from the get-go. Luckily, Dubai’s business scene is flexible and offers solutions that tick the legal boxes without the massive price tag.
- Co-working Spaces: Grabbing a desk or a small private office here is a fantastic, low-cost way to get a valid Ejari.
- Business Centres: Much like co-working spaces, these offer serviced offices with shared facilities, letting you meet the legal requirement affordably.
- Traditional Leases: If you're a larger operation, leasing your own dedicated office gives you more space and a sense of permanence, but it comes with higher costs and longer-term commitments.
Here’s a crucial tip: the size of your office directly ties into how many employee visas you can apply for. A bigger office space means a larger visa quota, which is something you absolutely need to consider if you plan on growing your team.
The Role of a Local Partner or Agent
Even with the laws allowing 100% foreign ownership for many activities, you might still need to appoint a Local Service Agent (LSA) for certain professional licences. An LSA is a UAE national who acts as your company’s go-between for government paperwork but has no shares or say in your business decisions.
For some other specific, strategic business activities, a UAE National Partner (often called a sponsor) might still be a requirement. It’s really important to get expert advice to figure out what applies to your specific business activity.
These arrangements come with a fee, which is another key part of your operational mainland company setup Dubai cost.
The fee structure usually works in one of two ways:
- Fixed Annual Fee: This is the most common deal for an LSA. You agree on a set amount to pay them each year for their services, which can be anywhere from AED 5,000 to AED 25,000.
- Profit Percentage: This is less common now, but some older setups or partnerships might involve giving the partner a percentage of the company's profits.
Budgeting properly for your office and any local partner fees is essential for your company's long-term health. As a general guide, office rent in Dubai can start from AED 200 per square foot annually. On top of that, the government often charges market fees based on this rent—around 5% for commercial shops and up to 20% for warehouses. To get a deeper dive, you can find more insights about mainland setup costs in Dubai on startanybusiness.ae.
Comparing Setup Costs in Other Emirates
Dubai is often the default choice for entrepreneurs setting up shop in the UAE, but a savvy business owner always looks at the bigger picture. Digging into the mainland company setup Dubai cost alongside what’s on offer in a place like Abu Dhabi can sometimes uncover some serious savings, depending on your business model.
This isn’t about which emirate is "better"—it’s about finding the perfect strategic fit for your budget and where you want to position yourself in the market. What’s right for a trading company in the heart of Dubai might be totally different for a tech startup in the capital.
The infographic below breaks down the typical costs you can expect when setting up a mainland company in Dubai. It gives you a solid baseline to start with.
As you can see, office rent and licence fees are usually the biggest initial hurdles to clear when you’re getting established on the Dubai mainland.
A Closer Look at Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has really stepped up its game, presenting a strong case for itself with its own unique cost benefits. The emirate has been actively working to make it easier and cheaper for new businesses to get started, which has created a very competitive environment.
Typically, the business setup cost in Abu Dhabi for a mainland licence has been in the range of AED 10,000 to AED 25,000 per year. This figure covers things like the trade licence itself, trade name approvals, and various government charges.
But the real game-changer came in 2021 when Abu Dhabi dramatically cut its setup fees to just AED 1,000 for a two-year licence covering up to six activities. This single move has made the capital one of the most affordable mainland locations in the entire country. You can find more details about the cost of starting a business in Abu Dhabi on bizinvestfirm.com.
Key Cost Differences to Consider
When you're weighing your options between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the real difference in your final bill will come down to a handful of key areas. Getting a handle on these variations is crucial if you want to budget accurately.
Here’s a quick table to give you a side-by-side look at the main setup costs you’ll face in both emirates.
Cost Comparison Dubai vs Abu Dhabi Mainland Setup
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost in Dubai (AED) | Estimated Cost in Abu Dhabi (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Trade Licence Fees | Varies by activity | AED 5,000 – AED 15,000 |
| Government Service Fees | AED 1,000 – AED 2,500 | AED 2,000 – AED 5,000 |
| Office Rental (Annual) | Starts from AED 25,000+ | Starts from AED 20,000+ |
| Special Initiatives | Standardised fees | Reduced fee packages available |
Ultimately, the best choice really does depend on your specific business. At PRO Deskk, we are specialists in mainland company formation across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi, and we’re experts at finding cost-effective solutions that are a perfect match for what you need. As specialists in Freezone Company Formation across the UAE, we can help you compare all your options.
For a free consultation to talk through your options, WhatsApp Us Today for a Free Consultation or give us a call at +971-54-4710034. We're here with 24/7 support service to help you make the right call for your venture.
Why Professional PRO Services Are a Smart Investment
Let's be honest: navigating the setup for a Dubai mainland company involves a mountain of paperwork and a lot of back-and-forth with different government departments. Even though the process has been improved over the years, it’s still full of specific rules and Arabic documents that can easily trip up a new entrepreneur.
This is exactly where professional PRO (Public Relations Officer) services shift from being an "extra cost" to a vital investment for your business.
A good PRO service acts as your official guide and representative. They handle all the legwork with government bodies like the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE), and Immigration. This expertise doesn't just save you time; it prevents small, costly mistakes that could put your launch on hold. Their entire job is to make your setup smooth, compliant, and quick.
What Does a PRO Service Actually Do?
Bringing in expert support right from the start simplifies everything. Instead of you spending weeks trying to figure out the requirements, you can get back to focusing on your business plan while specialists handle the red tape. This has a direct, positive impact on your overall mainland company setup Dubai cost by making sure your time and money are spent wisely.
PRO services cover a whole range of critical tasks:
- Document Clearing and Attestation: They make sure all your legal documents are correctly translated into Arabic, notarised, and officially attested by the right authorities.
- Visa Processing: This is a big one. They manage applications for investor visas, residence permits for your employees, and family visas, which includes sorting out medical tests and Emirates ID registration.
- Licence Renewals: They stay on top of the annual renewal of your trade licence, establishment card, and other permits so you never face fines for missing a deadline.
- Regulatory Approvals: Depending on your business, you might need specific approvals from different ministries. A PRO knows exactly who to go to and what they need.
Using a dedicated corporate PRO service isn't just about convenience—it's a strategic move. It ensures your business stays fully compliant with UAE regulations, protecting you from potential fines or operational headaches and giving you total peace of mind.
At the end of the day, trying to handle all this yourself can lead to surprise costs from simple mistakes, missed deadlines, or incorrect paperwork. A professional team with established government relationships and deep knowledge of local laws turns a potentially stressful process into a predictable, seamless experience. At PRO Deskk, our specialists in Corporate PRO Services and Attestation Services, backed by 24/7 support, provide the cost-effective and reliable foundation your new company needs to succeed.
Getting Your Mainland Company Started Right
Launching your business in Dubai is a huge milestone, but you absolutely don't have to navigate the complex landscape alone. Making the right calls from day one is the secret to managing your mainland company setup Dubai cost and making sure everything goes smoothly.
Honestly, the right support makes all the difference.
Our team has been through this process countless times. We are specialists in Mainland Company Formation in Dubai, Sharjah & Abu Dhabi, which means we can offer practical, cost-effective advice that fits what you're trying to build. This experience across the emirates helps us give you the most strategic guidance, whether you're leaning towards a mainland company or exploring our expertise as specialists in Freezone Company Formation across the UAE.
A Partnership for Your Growth
Think of professional guidance as your first real investment in your company's future. Our job doesn't stop once the company is registered. We're here for the long haul, providing comprehensive corporate PRO services to handle all the government-related tasks, from visa applications to keeping your company compliant.
Here's how our dedicated team can help:
- Specialised Company Formation: Whether it’s a mainland LLC in Dubai or a specific freezone entity, we tailor the setup to match your business goals perfectly.
- Investor and Golden Visas: We are specialists in Golden Visa on Property and Investor Visa, ensuring you and your key people have stable residency in the UAE.
- Full PRO and Attestation Services: We manage all the necessary paperwork, approvals, and legal attestations. This saves you a massive amount of time and prevents the kind of small mistakes that can become very expensive later on.
Choosing a partner with proven, on-the-ground expertise is your first step towards taking full advantage of the significant UAE tax benefits available to international entrepreneurs. We also provide 24/7 support because we know questions don't just come up during office hours—we're always here when you need us.
Ultimately, your goal is to build a thriving business. Our goal is to handle the red tape so you can focus on making that happen.
The setup process involves quite a few steps, each with its own costs and requirements. For a complete overview, you can dive into our detailed guide on how to start a business in the UAE.
Ready to turn your business plan into a reality? Let's chat about a cost-effective setup that works for you.
📞 Call Us Now: +971-54-4710034
💬 WhatsApp Us Today for a Free Consultation
Common Questions About Dubai Mainland Setup Costs
Working through the finances of a new business is bound to bring up a lot of questions. Getting a clear picture of the mainland company setup Dubai cost is absolutely essential for building a solid budget and ensuring your launch goes off without a hitch.
Here are some of the most common queries we hear from entrepreneurs planning their move into the Dubai market. We'll give you clear, straightforward answers to help you anticipate every expense.
Can I Get a Dubai Mainland Licence Without Renting an Office?
No, you can't. A physical office address is a non-negotiable legal requirement for getting a mainland trade licence in Dubai. Your tenancy contract, known locally as an Ejari, is one of the first documents the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) will ask for.
But this doesn't mean you have to sign an expensive, long-term lease right away. There are smart, cost-effective ways around this. Approved co-working spaces or serviced business centres are perfect solutions that give you a legitimate commercial address without the hefty overheads of a traditional office space.
What Are the Hidden Costs I Should Be Aware Of?
It's smart to budget for more than just the headline licence and registration fees. Several other costs often pop up.
You'll likely need to account for:
- Arabic translation and official attestation of your legal documents
- Bank account opening fees
- Security deposits for both your office rent and utilities
Most importantly, don't forget the annual renewals. Your trade licence, establishment card, and any visas all need to be renewed every year. These are recurring operational expenses that should be a permanent part of your financial planning. Our specialists in Corporate PRO Services and Attestation Services can manage this for you.
How Much Does a Residence Visa Cost as Part of the Setup?
An investor or employee residence visa is a big part of the total cost, typically falling between AED 3,500 to AED 7,000 per person. This estimate generally covers the mandatory medical fitness test, Emirates ID application, and the final visa stamping in your passport.
The final figure can change depending on whether you process the application from inside or outside the UAE. If you plan on bringing a team with you, these visa costs can add up fast, so it's a critical line item for your initial budget. We are specialists in Golden Visa on Property and Investor Visa, making sure the process is as efficient as possible.
A common point of confusion is whether a free zone setup is a cheaper alternative. Initially, free zone packages can appear more affordable as they often bundle services and don't require a local partner. However, the long-term value depends entirely on your business model and target market.
If your main goal is to trade directly within the local UAE market, a mainland licence is essential. The extra costs and logistical headaches of using a third-party distributor to get around free zone restrictions can quickly wipe out any initial savings. To get a comprehensive understanding of the licencing process, you can explore our detailed guide on securing a Dubai trade license.
At PRO Deskk, we provide cost-effective business setup solutions tailored to your needs, backed by 24/7 support. We are specialists in Mainland Company Formation in Dubai, Sharjah & Abu Dhabi and help international entrepreneurs enjoy UAE tax benefits.
📞 Call Us Now: +971-54-4710034
💬 WhatsApp Us Today for a Free Consultation: https://wa.me/971544710034
