Dubai Mainland Sole Establishment
Dubai continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in the UAE. While Freezones are popular for startups and foreign investors, mainland licenses—especially the sole establishment license—offer distinct advantages for those who want to operate freely within the UAE market and beyond.
In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the concept of a Dubai mainland sole establishment, how it differs from other license types, and why it might be the right choice for solo entrepreneurs and professionals.
What Is a Dubai Mainland License?
A Dubai mainland license allows a business to operate anywhere in the UAE, including onshore markets. It is issued by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) (formerly known as DED – Department of Economic Development). Mainland licenses are ideal for businesses looking to serve clients across the UAE and bid on government projects.
There are several types of mainland licenses:
Commercial License – For trading and retail businesses
Professional License – For service-based or consulting businesses
Industrial License – For manufacturing and production businesses
What Is a Sole Establishment in Dubai Mainland?
A sole establishment is a business entity owned and operated by a single individual. It is most suitable for professionals and service providers such as consultants, engineers, artists, and IT specialists.
Key Features:
100% ownership by a single UAE national or expat (for professional activities)
No partner or shareholder
The owner is fully liable for the business’s financial obligations
💡 Note: Expatriates can open a sole establishment only for professional activities and must appoint a Local Service Agent (LSA) (a UAE national) without giving them ownership.
Benefits of Dubai Mainland Sole Establishment
100% ownership for expats (in professional license categories)
No restriction on business location — operate anywhere in the UAE
Easy to open corporate bank accounts
Eligibility for unlimited visa quota (depending on office space)
No minimum capital requirement
Can work directly with government and large corporate clients
Limitations to Be Aware Of
Unlimited liability: The owner is personally liable for all debts and liabilities
Limited to professional activities: Cannot engage in trading or industrial activities under a sole establishment license
Local service agent required (for expats): Though they don’t have decision-making power, you’ll pay an annual fee
Name restrictions: The business name must reflect the activity and include the owner’s full name
Common Business Activities for Sole Establishment in Dubai Mainland
If you’re looking to start a sole establishment, here are some popular activities that qualify under professional licensing:
| Activity Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Consulting Services | Management, HR, Marketing, IT |
| Technical Services | Software development, Web design |
| Healthcare & Wellness | Therapy, Counseling, Nutritionist |
| Education & Training | Private tutoring, Corporate training |
| Creative Services | Photography, Art, Design |
| Legal & Financial | Legal consultancy, Tax advisory |
These activities are especially popular among freelancers, independent consultants, and skilled professionals.
Dubai Mainland Sole Establishment License Packages (2025)
While costs can vary depending on activity, office space, and visa needs, here are some general package ranges:
| Package Type | Estimated Cost (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Basic (No visa) | 8,000 – 12,000 | License only, Local Service Agent included |
| With 1 Visa Allocation | 13,000 – 17,000 | License, LSA, Establishment card, Immigration file |
| With Co-working Space | 15,000 – 20,000 | License, workspace access, 1–2 visas |
| Custom Packages (Multi-visa) | 20,000+ | Tailored for growing businesses with team members |
⚠️ Prices may fluctuate depending on activity type and additional services such as legal documentation, translations, or insurance.
Final Thoughts
The Dubai mainland sole establishment is a powerful option for solo entrepreneurs, professionals, and consultants aiming for complete ownership and market flexibility. If your business falls under professional services and you’re ready to scale within the UAE, this license offers great value with fewer restrictions compared to Freezones.
However, it’s crucial to understand the liability implications and compliance requirements. Consulting with a trusted business setup advisor is highly recommended before proceeding.
