BUSINESS SETUP DUBAI / COMPANY FORMATION DUBAI
Dubai Trade License Fees – What You’ll Actually Pay
Most websites give you vague ranges.
Let’s make this simple.
A standard mainland trading license with 1 visa and a business center office typically costs:AED 18,000 – AED 22,000 all-in
Now let’s break down exactly where that money goes.
Want your exact cost? Get a custom quote based on your businessCompany License For AED 8500 Only
Pay Only The Government Fees
Mainland vs Free Zone – Cost Comparison
Here’s the clearest way to understand the difference:
Cost Component | Mainland Company | Free Zone Company |
|---|---|---|
License Fee | AED 10,000 – 15,000 | AED 5,500 – 10,000 |
Office / Flexi Desk | AED 5,000 – 15,000 | Often included / AED 0 – 5,000 |
Visa Cost (per visa) | AED 3,000 – 5,000 | AED 3,000 – 5,000 |
Total Estimated Setup | AED 18,000 – 25,000+ | AED 6,000 – 18,000+ |
👉 Mainland is usually higher due to office requirements
👉 Free zone is more flexible and can start lower
👉 Not sure which setup fits your budget? Compare mainland vs free zone first
The Biggest Cost Mistake to Avoid
Choosing the cheapest setup without understanding limitations.This often leads to:
- Restructuring costs later
- Activity restrictions
- Higher long-term expenses
👉 The cheapest setup is rarely the most cost-effective.
How to Reduce Your Setup Cost
Instead of cutting corners, optimize correctly:
- Choose the right jurisdiction for your business model
- Start with only the visas you actually need
- Select cost-efficient office options
- Avoid unnecessary activity approvals
👉 Smart structuring saves more than cheap setups.
What Affects the Cost of a Trade License?
Your final cost depends on how your business is structured.
Main factors include:
- Number of visas required
- Office space or flexi-desk setup
- Business activity type
- Mainland vs free zone jurisdiction
- Additional approvals (if required)
👉 Even small changes in these can significantly affect your total cost.
Real Cost Scenarios
Scenario 1 — Budget Free Zone Setup
- No visa
- Flexi-desk
👉 AED 5,500 – 8,000
Scenario 2 — Free Zone With Visas
- N2–3 visas
- Fexi-desk
👉 AED 12,000 – 18,000
Scenario 3 — Mainland Starter Setup
- 1 visa
- Febusiness center office
👉 AED 18,000 – 22,000
Scenario 4 — Mainland Growing Business
- 3–5 visas
- physical office
👉 AED 25,000 – 40,000+
Want an Exact Cost for Your Business?
Every business is different, and so is the final cost. Get a breakdown based on your activity, know exactly what you’ll pay upfront, and avoid hidden costs and surprises.