How to Get a Business License in Dubai – Full Guide for Business Owners Starting a company in Dubai begins with one important step — obtaining a business license in Dubai. Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or international investor, the right license determines your activity approval, visa quota, banking access, and legal compliance. With Prodigy, the licensing process becomes simple, fast, and fully guided from start to finish. Types of Business Licenses in Dubai Understanding license categories helps you register correctly without rejection or re-application mistakes. License Type Best For Examples Commercial License Trading, e-commerce, import/export General trading, dropshipping, retail Professional License Freelancers & service companies Consulting, marketing, IT services Industrial License Manufacturing & production Factory setup, assembly units Tourism License Travel, tourism & hospitality Travel agency, tourism operations Choosing the wrong category can delay approvals — Prodigy helps select the right one based on your activity. Requirements for Getting a Business License in Dubai To apply for a business license in Dubai, you will typically need: Passport copy of shareholders Trade name options (2–3) Selected business activity list Phone number & email for registration Initial approval application Office address or flexi-desk package Certain activities may require additional approvals (legal, ministry, municipality). Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Business License in Dubai 1. Select Your Business Activity Consultancy, trading, tech, real estate, e-commerce — each requires the right license classification. 2. Choose Mainland, Freezone, or Offshore Mainland: Operate anywhere in UAE Freezone: 100% ownership + cost-effective Offshore: Global structure, no UAE operations 3. Register Trade Name 3 name options required — availability check included. 4. Apply for Initial Approval Government confirmation to proceed. 5. Sign Documentation & Office Setup Flexi desk or virtual office allowed in freezone. 6. Get Your Business License Official legal approval to operate in Dubai. 7. Visa, Emirates ID & Bank Account Final steps for operating fully in UAE. Prodigy handles every step so you never deal with confusion or rejection. Cost of Business License in Dubai The cost depends on structure, activity, and visa requirements: Setup Type Starting Cost (Approx.) Freezone License AED 8,000 – AED 15,000 Mainland License AED 12,000 – AED 25,000 E-Commerce / Online Business AED 8,500 – AED 18,000 📍 Final cost depends on visas, office setup, and activity approvals. Mainland vs Freezone — Which Is Better? Option Best For Benefits Mainland Local market + physical operations Trade anywhere in UAE Freezone International business & startups 100% foreign ownership Offshore Global holding structure Asset protection & privacy Prodigy helps compare options to pick what fits your exact business goals. Why Choose Prodigy for Your Dubai License Setup Advantage What You Get Fast approvals No delays or rejections Government coordination We manage authorities & paperwork No hidden charges Clear pricing & guidance End-to-end support License → Visa → Bank account You focus on your business — we handle the compliance. Start Your Business in Dubai With Confidence Getting a business license in Dubai is easy when done correctly — difficult when done alone. Prodigy Group — Your Business, Sorted. Get Instant Assistance +971 52 995 2925 All Posts Best Company Formation in the UAE Business Setup Bussnicess Visa Dubai Dubai Commercial License List of Business Activities in Dubai Trusted UAE Business Setup Firm Visa Processing in UAE Business License in Dubai – Cost, Requirements & Step-by-Step Setup Guide December 27, 2025/ How to Get a Business License in Dubai – Full Guide for Business Owners Starting a company in Dubai begins… Read More PRO and Visa Services in UAE | Business Setup, Renewals & Compliance December 25, 2025/ PRO and Visa Services in UAE – Fast, Compliant & Stress-Free Support for Businesses Setting up or running a business… Read More How to Get a Partner Visa in Dubai – Requirements, Process & Benefits | Prodigy December 22, 2025/ How to Get a Partner Visa in Dubai – Requirements, Process & Benefits | Prodigy Dubai is a global hub… Read More Load More End of Content.