Many investors mistakenly believe that setting up in the Emirates requires an inordinate amount of start-up capital. This guide reveals tried and tested methods for obtain a commercial licence in dubai at a competitive rate without compromising the quality of your structure. Here you'll discover the precise financial levers you need to launch your business while keeping every item of expenditure under control.
Options for a commercial licence on a budget
Free zone: the default choice for light starts
For those on a tight budget, free zones remain the most obvious option. They cut out unnecessary costs. Above all, you keep the 100 foreign ownership %.
In financial terms, the entry ticket is around AED 15,000. This amount covers registration and the basics for a Dubai business licence. It's a light structure for getting started. This means that the financial risk remains very limited.
Mainland: more expensive, but for what benefit?
The Mainland weighs more, often between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000. This is the price for directly attacking the local market. You are paying for your freedom of action.
This choice goes beyond a simple calculator. The truth is, your business model dictates expenditure ; understand the Mainland vs Free Zone match is therefore a step that should not be overlooked.
Breaking down costs: what really adds up?
Have you decided on the zone? That's fine. But beware, the devil is in the detail financial details and final cost will depend on very specific choices.
Type of business and legal structure
The price hierarchy is clear: a service-oriented professional degree often cuts the bill compared to a commercial degree in trading. Bear in mind that regulated sectors such as healthcare require paid official tampons, which inflate the bill.
Your legal structure also affects the budget: opt for an FZE in a free trade zone radically changes the initial entry ticket.
The office: from flexi-desk to physical office
Premises often represent the main financial drain, whereas it is possible to slash this ruthless spending to preserve your cash flow.
Office type
Estimated annual cost (AED)
Ideal for...
Flexi-desk / Shared office
From AED 5,000
Freelancers and start-ups on a tight budget
Bureau Physique Privé
AED 100,000 and over
Established teams requiring dedicated space
Getting started without breaking the bank: the steps and pitfalls to avoid
Once the budget is clear, it's time to take action. But be careful, speed doesn't have to mean haste.
The key stages in optimising your application
Forget the endless paperwork of yesteryear. Today, Dubai has massively digitised its procedures for maximum efficiency. In just a few clicks, your application moves forward, far from the usual red tape.
Here is the how to make it happen your project :
Select your activity and the ideal jurisdiction (Free Zone or Mainland).
Reserve a unique trade name to the competent authority.
Submit your documents, Often all you need is your passports and a brief business plan.
Pay for obtain your official commercial licence.
Avoiding costly mistakes
Don't be blinded by an attractive introductory price. Underestimating recurring costs such as annual renewals or visa fees can quickly drain your cash flow if the licence is unsuitable.
Thinking you can save money without experts is often a risky calculation. Solid support secures your investment and prevents you from falling into the classic pitfalls of setting up a business in the Emirates. It's your best insurance.
Obtaining a business licence in Dubai with a controlled budget is perfectly feasible if you target the right jurisdiction. Whether it's a Free Zone or the Mainland, the key is to’optimise your structural choices. To secure your investment and avoid hidden costs, expert support remains your best asset.
FAQ Cheap commercial licence in Dubai
What is the real cost of a business licence in Dubai?
The start-up budget varies considerably depending on the jurisdiction chosen. For an economical option, Free Zone licences generally start at around AED 15,000. If you opt for a freelance licence, the cost can even drop to between AED 6,000 and AED 8,000, depending on the zone.
On the other hand, setting up in the Mainland, which offers direct access to the local market, is a more attractive option. heavier investment, often between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000, This is due in particular to the requirements of the physical premises.
How do I obtain a business licence in the United Arab Emirates?
The process is now very digital and fast. The first step is to choose your business and jurisdiction (Free Zone or Mainland), then reserve your trade name with the relevant authority (DED or free zone authority).
Once these choices have been validated, you will need to submit your personal documents (passport, visa) and pay the registration fee. Licences are often issued, You can then apply for your visas and open a bank account.
What exactly is a commercial licence?
This is the legal document authorising a company to operate purchasing, selling and trading goods in the Emirates. It is essential for any company wishing to import, export or distribute products within the country or internationally.
It is important to distinguish it from the professional licence, which is aimed at service providers and tradespeople. The choice between the two will have a direct impact on your legal structure and your start-up costs.
How do I obtain a freelance permit in Dubai?
Le freelance licence is the ideal solution to get started at a lower cost without having to rent an office. To obtain one, you need to apply to specific free zones such as Dubai Media City, IFZA or Meydan, which offer dedicated packages for solo entrepreneurs.
The procedure is simple: all you usually need to provide is a copy of your passport, a photo and, in some cases, proof of qualifications in your field. The the fastest option for legally billing your services.
Download the guide to setting up a company in Dubai and the UAE.
Legal structure, licence, real budget, visa, bank account and pitfalls to avoid. Download the complete guide to setting up your company in Dubai with peace of mind.
Cheap business licence in Dubai: how to start your business at a lower cost
Many investors mistakenly believe that setting up in the Emirates requires an inordinate amount of start-up capital. This guide reveals tried and tested methods for obtain a commercial licence in dubai at a competitive rate without compromising the quality of your structure. Here you'll discover the precise financial levers you need to launch your business while keeping every item of expenditure under control.
Options for a commercial licence on a budget
Free zone: the default choice for light starts
For those on a tight budget, free zones remain the most obvious option. They cut out unnecessary costs. Above all, you keep the 100 foreign ownership %.
In financial terms, the entry ticket is around AED 15,000. This amount covers registration and the basics for a Dubai business licence. It's a light structure for getting started. This means that the financial risk remains very limited.
Mainland: more expensive, but for what benefit?
The Mainland weighs more, often between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000. This is the price for directly attacking the local market. You are paying for your freedom of action.
This choice goes beyond a simple calculator. The truth is, your business model dictates expenditure ; understand the Mainland vs Free Zone match is therefore a step that should not be overlooked.
Breaking down costs: what really adds up?
Have you decided on the zone? That's fine. But beware, the devil is in the detail financial details and final cost will depend on very specific choices.
Type of business and legal structure
The price hierarchy is clear: a service-oriented professional degree often cuts the bill compared to a commercial degree in trading. Bear in mind that regulated sectors such as healthcare require paid official tampons, which inflate the bill.
Your legal structure also affects the budget: opt for an FZE in a free trade zone radically changes the initial entry ticket.
The office: from flexi-desk to physical office
Premises often represent the main financial drain, whereas it is possible to slash this ruthless spending to preserve your cash flow.
Getting started without breaking the bank: the steps and pitfalls to avoid
Once the budget is clear, it's time to take action. But be careful, speed doesn't have to mean haste.
The key stages in optimising your application
Forget the endless paperwork of yesteryear. Today, Dubai has massively digitised its procedures for maximum efficiency. In just a few clicks, your application moves forward, far from the usual red tape.
Here is the how to make it happen your project :
Avoiding costly mistakes
Don't be blinded by an attractive introductory price. Underestimating recurring costs such as annual renewals or visa fees can quickly drain your cash flow if the licence is unsuitable.
Thinking you can save money without experts is often a risky calculation. Solid support secures your investment and prevents you from falling into the classic pitfalls of setting up a business in the Emirates. It's your best insurance.
Obtaining a business licence in Dubai with a controlled budget is perfectly feasible if you target the right jurisdiction. Whether it's a Free Zone or the Mainland, the key is to’optimise your structural choices. To secure your investment and avoid hidden costs, expert support remains your best asset.
FAQ Cheap commercial licence in Dubai
What is the real cost of a business licence in Dubai?
The start-up budget varies considerably depending on the jurisdiction chosen. For an economical option, Free Zone licences generally start at around AED 15,000. If you opt for a freelance licence, the cost can even drop to between AED 6,000 and AED 8,000, depending on the zone.
On the other hand, setting up in the Mainland, which offers direct access to the local market, is a more attractive option. heavier investment, often between AED 25,000 and AED 50,000, This is due in particular to the requirements of the physical premises.
How do I obtain a business licence in the United Arab Emirates?
The process is now very digital and fast. The first step is to choose your business and jurisdiction (Free Zone or Mainland), then reserve your trade name with the relevant authority (DED or free zone authority).
Once these choices have been validated, you will need to submit your personal documents (passport, visa) and pay the registration fee. Licences are often issued, You can then apply for your visas and open a bank account.
What exactly is a commercial licence?
This is the legal document authorising a company to operate purchasing, selling and trading goods in the Emirates. It is essential for any company wishing to import, export or distribute products within the country or internationally.
It is important to distinguish it from the professional licence, which is aimed at service providers and tradespeople. The choice between the two will have a direct impact on your legal structure and your start-up costs.
How do I obtain a freelance permit in Dubai?
Le freelance licence is the ideal solution to get started at a lower cost without having to rent an office. To obtain one, you need to apply to specific free zones such as Dubai Media City, IFZA or Meydan, which offer dedicated packages for solo entrepreneurs.
The procedure is simple: all you usually need to provide is a copy of your passport, a photo and, in some cases, proof of qualifications in your field. The the fastest option for legally billing your services.
Legal structure, licence, real budget, visa, bank account and pitfalls to avoid. Download the complete guide to setting up your company in Dubai with peace of mind.
Do you have any questions about setting up a company in Dubai?
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