What is a DET License?
A **DET License** (formerly known as a DED license) is issued by the **Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism**. It authorizes a company to operate on the **Dubai Mainland**, granting the freedom to trade directly with local consumers, participate in government tenders, and operate anywhere within the UAE and internationally.
Unlike Free Zone licenses which are geographically restricted, a DET license provides the broadest scope for commercial activity within the Emirates.
Key Benefits of a Mainland Setup
Following the 2021 amendment to the Commercial Companies Law, foreign investors can now own 100% of onshore companies in most sectors without a local Emirati sponsor.
Freedom to rent office or retail space anywhere in Dubai, not limited to specific free zone areas.
Visa allocation is based on office size, allowing for scalable expansion of your workforce.
Eligibility to bid for lucrative government tenders and contracts reserved for mainland entities.
Types of DET Licenses
Choosing the correct license type is critical as it defines your allowed business activities.
- Commercial License: For trading activities (buying and selling goods). Allows general trading, specialized trading, and contracting.
- Professional License: For service providers, consultants, artisans, and craftsmen. 100% foreign ownership has historically been easier here.
- Industrial License: For manufacturing and industrial activities. Requires physical industrial space and approvals from other ministries.
- Tourism License: For hotels, travel agencies, and tour operators. Regulated by DET's tourism department.
Step-by-Step Setup Process
The standard process for a Limited Liability Company (LLC) on the mainland follows these key stages:
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1
Select Business Activity
Identify your activity from the DET's list of over 2,000 options. This determines your license type and legal form.
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2
Trade Name Reservation
Submit your proposed company names for approval. The name must not be misleading or violate public morals.
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3
Initial Approval
Obtain the "Initial Approval" certificate from DET, signaling no objection to your business starting the next steps.
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4
Draft MOA & Lease Office
Sign the Memorandum of Association (MOA) electronically or at a notary. Secure a physical office and get the Ejari (tenancy contract).
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5
License Issuance
Submit all documents, pay the license fees voucher, and receive your digital Trade License.
The Dubai "Instant License"
For many activities, Dubai offers an **Instant License** which can be issued in minutes without a lease agreement (Ejari) for the first year.
Key Requirements for Instant License:
- All shareholders must be present in Dubai OR have UAE Pass / Golden Visa.
- No external approvals required for the chosen activity.
- MOA is signed electronically.
Estimated Costs
Use our DET government fee estimator to model trade name, initial approval, licence band, market fee (5% of rent), and optional local service agent from your own inputs.
Costs vary significantly based on activity and office size, but here is a general breakdown for a standard professional/commercial license:
- Trade Name Reservation: ~AED 620
- Initial Approval: ~AED 120
- License Fees (First Year): ~AED 6,000 - 15,000 (varies by activity & additonal market fees)
- Local Service Agent (if applicable): ~AED 5,000 - 10,000 per year
- Office Rent: Depends on location (min. usually ~AED 20,000)
Note: These are government fees only. Professional service fees apply for setup assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a local Emirati partner for a DET license?
For most commercial and industrial activities, no. Since the 2021 amendment to the UAE Commercial Companies Law, foreign investors can now own 100% of the company on the Dubai Mainland. However, some specific strategic sectors (like oil & gas) may still require local ownership.
What is the difference between a DET license and a Free Zone license?
A DET (Mainland) license allows you to trade directly with the local UAE market and take on government contracts. A Free Zone license typically restricts you to trading within the Free Zone or internationally, requiring a local distributor for mainland trade.
Can I work from a virtual office with a DET license?
Yes, for the first year via the Instant License, or by using a "Estidama" (Sustainability) center desk agreement. This acts as a virtual office solution sufficient for license issuance, though a physical office may be required later for bank account opening or visa quota expansion.
How long does it take to get a DET license?
The Instant License can be issued in as little as 1-2 days. A standard license typically takes 5-7 working days, depending on external approvals (e.g., from the Municipality or Civil Defense) and the finalization of your office lease (Ejari).
What is the cost of a Dubai Mainland license?
Costs vary by activity. Generally, government fees start around AED 6,000 but can go up to AED 15,000+ depending on market fees (5% of annual rent) and other charges. Professional service fees for setup support are separate.
Can I get residency visas with a DET license?
Yes, a DET license allows you to apply for investor visas for shareholders and employment visas for staff. The number of visas (quota) is typically determined by the size of your office space.