How to Get an Investment License in Dubai: Best Guide(2025)

Dubai has become a leading global destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and businesses looking to expand their operations. The city’s world-class infrastructure, favorable tax policies, and business-friendly environment make it one of the most attractive hubs in the Middle East. If you’re planning to invest or start a company, one of the first steps is understanding how to get an investment license in Dubai, UAE.

This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from the Dubai trade license cost calculator to the LLC license cost in Dubai, UAE business license cost, and how to apply for an e-trader license in Dubai.

1. Understanding the Investment License in Dubai, UAE

An investment license in Dubai allows foreign and local investors to establish a business and engage in legal commercial activities. Whether you plan to open a consultancy, retail business, or tech startup, having the right license is mandatory.

The Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant Free Zone authorities issue business licenses based on your chosen activity. When applying for an investment license in Dubai, UAE, you must define your business type — commercial, industrial, or professional.

Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC can help simplify this process, guiding you through documentation, approvals, and choosing the most cost-effective structure for your business.

2. Steps on How to Get an Investment License in Dubai, UAE

Setting up a business in Dubai involves several steps. Here’s a simplified process to help you understand how to get an investment license in Dubai, UAE:

Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity

Start by identifying the business activity you want to engage in. This determines the type of license you need — for example, commercial, professional, or industrial.

Step 2: Select a Legal Structure

Your business structure could be a Limited Liability Company (LLC), sole proprietorship, or branch office. The structure will also affect your LLC license cost in Dubai and ownership flexibility.

Step 3: Choose a Location – Mainland or Free Zone

If you want to operate across the UAE, choose a mainland license. If you prefer full ownership and limited local market access, opt for a Free Zone license. The mainland license Dubai cost typically ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 20,000 depending on the business activity and size.

Step 4: Reserve a Trade Name

Your company’s trade name must comply with UAE regulations and represent your business clearly. It should not include offensive or religious terms.

Step 5: Apply for Initial Approval

Submit your application to the DED or the chosen Free Zone authority for initial approval. This confirms that your business activity is legally acceptable.

Step 6: Secure a Business Address

All businesses in Dubai must have a physical address. You can rent or lease office space based on your company’s needs.

Step 7: Pay the License Fees

The final step is to pay your license fees. Use a Dubai trade license cost calculator to estimate your total cost, which includes registration, office rent, and government approvals.

3. Dubai Trade License Cost Calculator

Understanding the total cost of setting up a company in Dubai is crucial. A Dubai trade license cost calculator gives you a clear idea of the investment required for your setup.

Typical expenses include:

• Trade name registration fees
• Government approvals
• Office rental costs
• Visa and establishment card charges

With Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC, you can get a personalized quote and accurate UAE business license cost estimation based on your industry and business size.

4. Mainland License Dubai Cost

A mainland license allows businesses to trade anywhere within the UAE and internationally. The mainland license Dubai cost varies depending on the business type, number of employees, and office size.

For most startups, costs range between AED 12,000 and AED 25,000. Although slightly higher than Free Zone licenses, a mainland setup offers greater flexibility and business opportunities within the UAE market.

Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC provides complete assistance in calculating and minimizing your mainland license Dubai cost through tailored packages.

5. How to Apply for an E-Trader License in Dubai

With the growing popularity of online businesses, Dubai introduced the e-trader license for individuals who sell products or offer services online through social media platforms or websites.

Here’s how to apply for an e-trader license in Dubai:

1. Visit the DED Trader website.
2. Register with your Emirates ID and mobile number.
3. Choose your business activity (e.g., digital marketing, retail, consultancy).
4. Pay the registration fee (approximately AED 1,070).
5. Receive your e-trader license electronically.

This license is ideal for freelancers, influencers, and small online businesses who want to operate legally in Dubai without renting office space.

6. LLC License Cost in Dubai

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the most popular business structures in Dubai. It provides flexibility, limited liability protection, and eligibility for local and international trade.

The LLC license cost in Dubai generally falls between AED 15,000 and AED 30,000. This includes trade name reservation, initial approval, notarization, and government fees. Working with experts like Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC ensures all documentation is accurate and cost-effective.

7. UAE Business License Cost

The UAE business license cost depends on your company structure, location, and activity. On average, investors can expect to spend between AED 10,000 and AED 25,000 to get started.

Using a Dubai trade license cost calculator helps determine the exact amount based on your requirements. Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC provides transparent pricing, helping entrepreneurs avoid unnecessary expenses during the setup process.

8. How to Get Trade License in UAE

To get a trade license in UAE, follow these steps:

1. Choose your business activity and structure.
2. Select your jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone).
3. Get initial approval from authorities.
4. Rent a physical or virtual office.
5. Submit required documents.
6. Pay the license issuance fee.

Once approved, you can legally start your business operations in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE.

Why Choose Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC

Setting up a company in Dubai can be complex, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC offers expert assistance in every stage — from business consultation to documentation and cost calculation.
Their services include:

• Investment and trade license assistance
• Mainland and Free Zone setup
• LLC company formation
• Cost calculation with a Dubai trade license cost calculator
• E-trader and online business registration

For more details, visit 👉Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC

FAQs

Q1: How much does it cost to get an investment license in Dubai, UAE?
It depends on your business activity and location, but costs usually start from AED 10,000 and can go up to AED 25,000.

Q2: What is the mainland license Dubai cost?
The mainland license Dubai cost ranges between AED 12,000 and AED 20,000.

Q3: How can I use a Dubai trade license cost calculator?
You can use it to estimate your setup and renewal costs, including government fees, office rent, and visa expenses.

Q4: What is the LLC license cost in Dubai?
The LLC license cost in Dubai is approximately AED 15,000–30,000 depending on your company size.

Q5: How to apply for an e-trader license in Dubai?
Apply online via the DED Trader portal using your Emirates ID and complete payment to receive your license.

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Conclusion

Understanding how to get an investment license in Dubai, UAE is the first step toward launching a successful business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets. Whether you’re exploring mainland license Dubai cost, calculating LLC license cost in Dubai, or using a Dubai trade license cost calculator, partnering with experts can simplify the process.

For seamless company formation, connect with Quick Biz Business Setup Services LLC — your trusted partner for business setup in the UAE.