In this guide
A DET permit or a branch licenceWhat to check before you register or applyPlanning to set up a company?Yes, if Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) issues a branch licence or a permit for the specific activity. If you’re deciding where to register, start by working out how your company will serve customers in Dubai. That will help you identify which licence to consider. Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, Articles 3 and 4
A DET permit or a branch licence
A company licensed in a Dubai free zone has three possible routes. DET can issue a licence for a mainland branch, a licence for a branch operating from the free zone, or a temporary permit for specific activities. Both branch licences are valid for one year and can be renewed. A temporary permit lasts up to six months. The available route depends on the activity. Financial firms licensed in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) are subject to separate rules. Resolution No. 11, Articles 2, 4 and 7–9
What to check before you register or apply
- Describe how you plan to operate. List the goods or services you offer, where your team works and whether you need premises on the mainland. If you’re planning a showroom outside the free zone, include its address if you already have one. Ask DET which licensed activity and licence type cover that setup before you sign a lease. Invest in Dubai — mainland companies
- Check which approvals you need. If the company already exists, check the activity name and code against its current free zone licence. To operate outside the free zone, you need approval from the authority that issued your licence and, where required, the relevant sector regulator. If you’re starting a new business, compare direct mainland registration with a free zone setup and the additional DET authorisation. Resolution No. 11, Articles 5–7, Invest in Dubai — setup options
- Gather the documents for your route. For a temporary permit, start with your valid free zone trade licence and memorandum of association. DET may ask for additional documents. Eligible companies with a Dubai Unified Licence (DUL) can apply for the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit through Invest in Dubai. Resolution No. 11, Article 7, Invest in Dubai — online application eligibility
Once licensed or authorised, keep separate financial records for your Dubai mainland activities and your free zone activities. If you also plan to operate in another emirate, check the requirements with the licensing authority there. Resolution No. 11, Article 3
Planning to set up a company?
Choosing where to register or already operating from a free zone? Tell us what your business does and where you plan to operate. Prime Consulting can help you compare setup options and identify the approvals to check.
Discuss setting up a company in Dubai