Dubai’s reputation as a global business hub continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. One of the first and most crucial steps to launching a business in Dubai is obtaining a trade license. However, navigating the costs and fees associated with securing a Dubai trade license can be complex, with expenses varying based on business type, location, and legal structure. This comprehensive guide by DS Technoverse breaks down every cost element for 2025, explains the factors that influence pricing, and provides actionable insights to help you plan your business setup budget with confidence.
A Dubai trade license is an official permit issued by government authorities, granting legal permission to operate a business within the emirate. The Department of Economic Development (DED) oversees mainland licenses, while various free zone authorities manage licenses within their zones. The type of license you need-commercial, professional, industrial, or tourism-will impact both your business activities and your setup costs.
AED 620 – AED 720
This fee is paid to reserve your business name with the DED. It’s a mandatory first step for all new businesses.
AED 120 – AED 300
This is a government “no objection” approval for your chosen business activity.
AED 10,000 – AED 15,000
The core cost for issuing your trade license, paid to the DED.
2.5% of Annual Rent (Min AED 250 – Max AED 10,000)
Calculated as a percentage of your leased office space’s annual rent.
AED 15,000 – AED 50,000+
Physical office space is mandatory for mainland businesses. The cost varies by location, size, and facilities.
AED 1,200 – AED 3,000
Required for all businesses to facilitate trade and networking.
AED 3,000 – AED 6,000
Needed to hire staff and obtain residency visas for employees.
Some business activities require NOCs or approvals from other authorities (e.g., Dubai Municipality, DHA, RTA). Fees vary.
AED 35,000 – AED 70,000+ (including office rent and all mandatory fees)
AED 5,500 – AED 15,000
Depends on business activity and free zone selected.
AED 5,000 – AED 10,000
A one-time payment at the time of incorporation.
AED 3,500 – AED 6,000 per visa
Includes entry permit, medicals, Emirates ID, etc.
AED 2,000 – AED 5,000
Some free zones offer this as a package.
Usually the same as the initial license cost, payable annually.
AED 20,000 – AED 60,000+ (depending on office solution, number of visas, and services chosen)
AED 5,000 – AED 10,000+
For handling government paperwork, visa processing, and document attestation.
AED 2,000+
Applicable for businesses involved in import/export.
AED 500 – AED 2,000+
For notarizing, translating, and attesting legal documents.
AED 1,000 – AED 5,000+
Depending on business activity (e.g., health insurance for employees, professional indemnity insurance).
Fees vary by activity and authority.
AED 2,000 – AED 10,000+
For DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority), telecom, and other utilities.
Cost Component | Mainland (AED) | Free Zone (AED) |
License Issuance Fee | 10,000 – 15,000 | 5,500 – 15,000 |
Office Rent | 15,000 – 50,000+ | 8,000 – 35,000+ |
Registration Fee | 120 – 300 | 5,000 – 10,000 |
Chamber of Commerce | 1,200 – 3,000 | Included/Optional |
Visa Allocation (per visa) | 3,000 – 6,000 | 3,500 – 6,000 |
PRO Services | 5,000 – 10,000+ | 5,000 – 10,000+ |
Total Estimated Cost | 35,000 – 70,000+ | 20,000 – 60,000+ |
Certain activities (e.g., medical, financial, food services) require additional approvals and higher fees.
LLCs, sole proprietorships, and branches have different cost structures.
Premium office locations (Downtown, Business Bay) command higher rents.
The more employees you sponsor, the higher your visa allocation and associated costs.
Physical offices are mandatory for mainland, but free zones may offer cost-saving flexi-desk options.
Some sectors require NOCs or special permits, adding to the total cost.
Business Activity: General Trading
Legal Structure: LLC
Office Location: Business Bay (mid-range office)
Cost Component | Amount (AED) |
Trade Name Reservation | 700 |
Initial Approval | 200 |
License Issuance | 12,000 |
Market Fees (2.5% of rent) | 1,250 |
Office Rent (annual) | 25,000 |
Chamber of Commerce | 2,000 |
Immigration/Labour Card | 4,000 |
Knowledge & Innovation Dirham | 30 |
PRO Services | 6,000 |
Visa (1 employee) | 4,000 |
CSR UAE Fund | 1,500 |
Document Attestation | 1,000 |
Total Estimated Cost | 57,680 |
Business Activity: Management Consultancy
Free Zone: Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
Office Solution: Flexi-desk
Cost Component | Amount (AED) |
License Fee | 10,000 |
Flexi-Desk Office | 10,000 |
Registration Fee | 7,000 |
Visa (1 employee) | 4,000 |
Bank Account Assistance | 3,000 |
PRO Services | 6,000 |
Total Estimated Cost | 40,000 |
Annual License Renewal: AED 8,000 – AED 15,000
Office Rent: Subject to market rates; renegotiation possible each year.
Visa Renewal: AED 3,000 – AED 6,000 per visa.
Chamber of Commerce: AED 1,200 – AED 3,000 (annual or biennial).
Other Compliance Costs: Insurance, PRO services, and external approvals as required.
Opt for a free zone with flexi-desk options and minimal visa requirements.
Yes-external approvals, document attestation, insurance, and utility deposits can add to your total.
Some free zones and business setup consultants offer installment plans.
Mainland businesses do; some free zones allow virtual or shared offices.
Annually, with renewal fees similar to the initial license cost.
Securing a Dubai trade license in 2025 involves a range of costs-from government fees and office rent to visas, external approvals, and ongoing compliance. Understanding these expenses in advance allows you to budget effectively, avoid surprises, and focus on growing your business in one of the world’s most vibrant markets.
Whether you choose a mainland or free zone setup, consult with experienced advisors like DS Technoverse to ensure a smooth, cost-effective, and compliant business launch.
DS Technoverse is here to guide you through every step of your Dubai business journey. Contact us for personalized advice, up-to-date cost breakdowns, and end-to-end business setup support tailored to your needs.