Are you planning to start a business in the UAE? Great decision! To operate anywhere in the UAE, sell directly to other businesses and consumer (B2B, and B2C), and to bid on government contracts, mainland business setup is the right structure. Unlike a free zone company, a mainland license isn't restricted to a single jurisdiction or limited to operating within a designated zone, and most business activities today allow 100% foreign ownership without needing a local sponsor.

That said, mainland setup involves more steps than a free zone license – approvals, office requirements, and activity-specific conditions all play an active role in business setup cost and timeline. Here’s the complete breakdown of Mainland Business Setup process and its cost 2026.

Cost of Mainland Business Setup in Dubai 2026

Mainland business setup in Dubai typically starts from AED 11,999, however the final cost depends on your business activity, number of activities included, office type, and visa allocation. Professional consultancy licenses tend to be affordable, while commercial, and industrial licenses costs more due to additional external approvals and larger office requirements.

For a detailed breakdown by activity type, see our Cost of Business Setup in Dubai Mainland guide. If you want an exact figure for your specific activity, our free cost calculator gives you a quote in under a minute.

With all documents in order and no activity-specific NOC required, mainland setup can typically be completed in 3 to 7 working days. Activities requiring third-party approvals (such as those regulated by health or education authorities) can take longer, depending on how quickly the relevant authority responds.