UAE Business Licence Costs in 2026: Prices for Different Business Categories
UAE BUSINESS GUIDE • 2026
UAE Business Licence Costs in 2026: A Complete Guide to Different Business Categories
Planning to start a business in the United Arab Emirates? From online stores and freelance services to restaurants, trading companies and manufacturing, understanding your business licence costs can help you plan your investment more effectively.
The UAE offers different business registration options across its emirates and free zones. Your total cost depends on the business activity, licensing authority, legal structure, workspace and visa requirements.
1. UAE Business Licence Costs by Category
Compare indicative starting budgets for popular business activities.
| Business category | Estimated starting budget (AED) |
|---|---|
| Freelance services | 3,500–8,000 |
| Business consultancy | 5,000–15,000 |
| IT and software development | 5,000–15,000 |
| Digital marketing agency | 5,000–15,000 |
| Graphic design services | 5,000–15,000 |
| Photography and video production | 5,000–18,000 |
| E-commerce and online selling | 6,000–18,000 |
| Social media management | 5,000–15,000 |
| General trading | 12,000–25,000 |
| Import and export | 12,000–25,000 |
| Retail shop | 15,000–35,000+ |
| Restaurant or café | 20,000–50,000+ |
| Cloud kitchen | 15,000–35,000+ |
| Beauty salon or barber shop | 20,000–40,000+ |
| Real estate brokerage | 15,000–35,000+ |
| Manufacturing and industrial activities | 20,000–50,000+ |
These figures are for initial planning only. Physical premises, visas, external approvals, equipment and other expenses may substantially increase the final investment.
2. Mainland vs Free Zone: Which Is Better?
Mainland Licence
Suitable for many businesses serving the UAE local market, including retail, professional services and commercial activities. Requirements depend on the activity and emirate.
Free Zone Licence
Offers different packages for eligible freelancers, consultants, online businesses and traders. Workspace options and permitted activities vary by free zone.
Neither option is automatically the cheapest. Compare the permitted activities, total setup charges, workspace requirements, visa eligibility and renewal fees before choosing.
3. Licence Options for Online Businesses
Online and service-based businesses may be able to start with lower initial expenses than businesses that need shops, warehouses or industrial facilities.
IT and Web Development
Website development, software services and eligible technology consultancy.
Photography and Video
Product photography, video editing and eligible creative production services.
Digital Marketing
Social media management, advertising and online promotional services.
E-commerce
Online product sales through websites and marketplaces, subject to applicable rules.
Dubai eTrader Licence
Dubai has an eTrader licensing route for eligible home-based businesses. Published fee information has included AED 1,070 in licence, knowledge and innovation fees, plus AED 300 for Dubai Chamber membership. Verify current prices and eligibility with the relevant authority before applying.
Official website: Invest in Dubai.
4. Additional Expenses Beyond the Licence
The advertised licence price may not include every expense required to operate a business.
| Expense | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Trade name and initial approval | Registration and application charges |
| Office or workspace | Flexi-desk, office, shop or warehouse rent |
| Residence visa | Visa processing, medical examination and Emirates ID |
| Establishment card | Whether required and included in the package |
| External approvals | Activity-specific permissions and inspections |
| Banking | Bank eligibility and service charges |
| Licence renewal | Annual renewal and recurring fees |
| Equipment and inventory | Computers, cameras, stock or machinery |
Ask for an itemised quotation that separates licence fees, registration, office facilities, visas, approvals and renewal charges. This makes it easier to compare providers fairly.
5. Which Licence Is Suitable for Your Business?
Freelancers and consultants
Compare freelance permits and professional licences that cover the exact services you intend to offer.
Online sellers and traders
Check the appropriate e-commerce or trading licence and whether additional permissions are needed for particular products.
Restaurants, cafés and salons
Budget for approved premises, inspections, equipment and any additional permissions required by the relevant authorities.
Manufacturing businesses
Check industrial licensing requirements, facilities, safety rules and any environmental or operational approvals.
6. Official Websites for Checking UAE Licence Fees
Use official resources to confirm current fees, eligibility and permitted activities before making a payment.
Dubai business setup
↗ UAE Government
Business information
7. Tips Before Starting Your UAE Business
- Compare quotations from relevant authorities or authorised business setup providers.
- Confirm the exact business activities included in the licence.
- Check whether the package includes workspace and visa eligibility.
- Calculate first-year costs as well as annual renewal expenses.
- Verify external approvals and restrictions before paying.
- Do not assume every advertised package covers all government charges.
Conclusion
The cost of starting a business in the UAE varies significantly by category. Freelancers and small service providers may have lower entry costs, while retail, hospitality, trading and manufacturing businesses can require substantially larger investments.
Compare the complete first-year cost, permitted activities and renewal charges before making your decision. The right licence should fit both your budget and your actual business needs.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Prices and regulations may change. Confirm applicable fees, eligibility requirements and permitted activities with the relevant UAE licensing authority before applying.
