Business Setup UAE: Steps to Register a Company Under Dubai DED in 2025

Planning a business setup in UAE in 2025? If you’re considering Dubai, registering with the Department of Economy and Tourism (formerly DED) is a critical step. This article provides a comprehensive guide tailored to entrepreneurs ready to navigate the Dubai mainland business registration process efficiently.

Why Choose Dubai for Business Setup?

Dubai continues to attract global entrepreneurs due to its strategic location, tax benefits, robust infrastructure, and ease of doing business. Whether you’re a small startup or an expanding multinational, setting up in Dubai is a strategic move.

Key Steps for Business Setup in UAE: Registering Under Dubai DED

Establishing a company in Dubai’s mainland requires registration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), previously known as the Department of Economic Development (DED). Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process in 2025.

1. Define Your Business Activity

First, identify the business activity you wish to engage in. The DED offers over 2,000 licensed activities, classified into commercial, industrial, and professional categories. The activity you choose will determine the license type required.

• Visit the official DET portal to browse the activity list.
• Choose a specific activity to avoid license-related delays later.

2. Select a Legal Structure

The legal form of your entity affects your liability, taxation, and ownership. Common structures in Dubai mainland include:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Sole Establishment
• Civil Company
• Branch of Foreign Company

In 2025, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in many sectors, but some activities may still require a local partner.

3. Reserve a Trade Name

Register a unique trade name through DET’s online portal. The name must align with your license type and conform to UAE naming conventions. Avoid names that:

• Include offensive language
• Reference religious or political bodies
• Repeat names registered by other businesses

4. Apply for Initial Approval

The initial approval from the DET confirms there are no objections to you starting a company in the selected activity. It’s a preliminary clearance and not a license.

5. Draft and Notarize the MOA

A Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement must be prepared depending on your legal structure. Notarize the documents through a Dubai court or an approved notary service.

6. Choose Your Business Location

A physical office address is mandatory for Mainland companies under DED. You’ll need to secure a tenancy contract and obtain an Ejari (Dubai’s tenancy registration certificate).

7. Submit Documentation and Pay Licensing Fees

Compile the necessary documents including:

• Initial approval certificate
• MOA/LSA agreement
• Ejari certificate
• Trade name certificate

Submit all documentation to DET, pay applicable fees, and receive your business license.

8. Finalize Registration and Receive License

Once the application is approved and payment completed, DET issues your business license. This officially enables you to conduct business legally in Dubai.

Costs Involved in Company Registration

Although costs vary by activity and legal structure, typical expenses include:

• Trade name registration: AED 620–750
• Initial approval: AED 100–300
• License fee: AED 10,000–15,000
• Office rent and Ejari fees

Read this detailed cost breakdown for more insight.

Important Considerations for Business Setup UAE

Visa Quotas

Each company’s visa quota is linked to its office space and license type. Ensure your premises are adequate for your visa and staffing requirements.

Bank Account Opening

Once your license is issued, you can open a UAE corporate bank account. Select a bank suited to your company’s transaction needs and submit licensed documents.

Ongoing Renewal and Compliance

Your DET license needs annual renewal. You’ll also need to adhere to legal and financial compliance including VAT registration, audit reports (if applicable), and employee-related regulations.

For guidance on renewal, see fast license renewal tips here.

Advantages of Registering with DET in 2025

• 100% Foreign Ownership in approved sectors
• Direct Market Access to the UAE economy
• Wider business scope compared to free zones
• A simplified process via DET’s improved e-services

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Business in UAE

Starting a company in the UAE can be rewarding, but it’s crucial to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Choosing the wrong legal structure for your business activity
• Not working with a local expert for PRO services
• Neglecting visa eligibility requirements

Read more on mistakes to avoid when opening a company in Dubai.

Helpful Links and Government Resources

• UAE Government Portal – for government documents and national business permits
• Dubai DET Official Portal – for current listings and licensing

Final Thoughts

Completing a successful business setup in UAE requires strategic planning, attention to legal steps, and professional guidance. With Dubai DET simplifying licensing processes in 2025, now is the perfect time to launch your business in the UAE mainland. Armed with the right knowledge, registering your company can be smooth and rewarding.