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To operate legally in Dubai, a company must obtain a business license and sector-specific permits related to its activity. These permits are issued mainly by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and other authorized bodies, and they vary depending on the sector, trade type and business structure.
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Below you can find the business license types and sectoral permits most commonly required in Dubai, together with the competent authorities and current cost ranges. If you are not sure which license suits your business, feel free to contact our team for initial guidance.
One of the basic permits required to set up a business in Dubai is a business license or business permit. Business licenses are issued in different types depending on the field of activity of your business.
Retail and Wholesale Trade Permit: This is the type of permit that businesses that want to open a store or sell products must obtain.
Industrial Permit: Required for manufacturing or industrial businesses. This permit is required to regulate production processes.
Service Permit: Covers the permit that must be obtained for various service sector activities (e.g. education, consultancy, tourism).
Competent Authority: Business license and permit applications are managed and approved by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formed in 2021 through the merger of the Department of Economic Development (DED) and Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
Businesses operating in the tourism sector must obtain a tourism permit for all types of tourism-related activities. Such permits are required for hotel businesses, travel agencies, tour guide services and other touristic activities.
Competent Authority: Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) — formerly Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).
Businesses operating in regulated sectors such as financial services and banking require a permit from the authority relevant to the area they operate in. The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) regulates banks, insurers and investment firms operating within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) only; financial institutions operating in mainland Dubai fall under the UAE Central Bank and the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA). For related tax obligations, see our Dubai Tax Consultancy page.
Ministry and sectoral permits in Dubai are usually issued by local authorities such as the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In addition, for certain sectors, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) and other regulatory bodies may also be authorized.
Permits required in Dubai can be classified into the following main categories, depending on the type of business activity:
Commercial Permit: For trading, retail and wholesale activities (Authority: DET).
Professional/Service Permit: For consultancy, education, healthcare and other service activities (Authority: DET, KHDA or DHA, depending on the field).
Industrial Permit: For manufacturing and production activities (Authority: DET).
Tourism Permit: For hotels, travel agencies and tour operators (Authority: DET).
Financial Permit: For banking, insurance and investment activities (Authority: DFSA or UAE Central Bank/SCA).
Ministry permit costs in Dubai vary depending on the type of permit, sector requirements and business activity. As of 2026, approximate ranges are as follows:
Trade Permit: Typically AED 2,000 to AED 50,000 per year.
Health Permit: Typically AED 5,000 to AED 150,000 for a health clinic.
Tourism Permit: Typically AED 3,000 to AED 100,000.
Financial Permits: Often AED 10,000 or more per year.
Note: The figures above are indicative as of July 2026 and provided for general guidance only; official fees may change. Please check the relevant ministry's or authority's official website for the latest rates.
Ministry and sectoral permits are a legal requirement for a business to operate in Dubai, and choosing the right permits is closely tied to setting up your company correctly from the start. Learn more about the full process on our Dubai company formation page, or reach out to our team for guidance on the permits that apply to your sector.
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Activities that require special permits in Dubai include: Business establishment: A trade license and operating permit are required to set up a new business. Construction and renovation: Construction projects, major renovations, and building permits may require special permits from the local municipality (Dubai Municipality). Selling alcohol: A special permit is required to sell alcohol. This permit is usually valid for certain restaurants, bars, and hotels. Foreign investor permits: Special permits are required for certain free zones and types of businesses for foreigners to set up a business in Dubai. Employment of employees: Work permits and visas are required to employ employees in Dubai. Tourism activities: Activities such as tour guiding, hotel management, or tour organizing may also require permits from local authorities. Health and safety: Special permits are required for health-related services or high-risk activities.
To get a trade license in Dubai, you must first decide on a business model that suits the sector you will operate in. Then, you must apply to the local authorities and complete the necessary documents and application forms. The following are required during this process: Business plan Passport photocopy Company address Investor and partner information Documents to comply with specific regulations for the relevant sector. Trade licenses can be obtained in different regions such as free zones, free zones for foreign investors, or the mainland in Dubai.
To get a building permit in Dubai, the person or company that will carry out the project must apply to the Dubai Municipality. The application process can vary depending on the specific type of project, but generally includes: Project plans and engineering calculations Construction permit application form Environmental impact report (if it is a large-scale project) Insurance documents (must be valid until the project is completed) Approvals from local authorities. Construction activities cannot begin without a building permit and permissions.
Yes, there are various free zone licenses for foreign investors in Dubai. These permits allow foreigners to do business in certain areas and offer the following benefits: 100% foreign ownership Tax advantages Fast company formation processes Employment of foreign employees Duty-free trade opportunities A free zone license is usually required to set up a business in a free zone. Each free zone offers permits and regulations for different sectors.
What are the special permits for hiring employees in Dubai?In order to employ employees in Dubai, you usually need to obtain a work permit and visa. Here are the steps to follow to employ foreigners in Dubai: Apply for a suitable work visa and work permit for the employee. Employees must have health insurance and comply with local regulations. The company must offer suitable working conditions and terms for the employee.
Yes, to provide education or training services in Dubai, it is necessary to obtain a permit from institutions such as the Dubai Education Authority (KHDA) or the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Approval is given to educational institutions based on factors such as license, teaching materials, staff qualifications and quality of education. Since the education sector is also a highly regulated area in Dubai, it is important to comply with all legal regulations.
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