WhatsApp quoteAs we tell every client, bur Dubai is old Dubai's commercial district beside the creek, home to thousands of trading offices, and it is one of the locations entrepreneurs ask GoldenKey about most when planning a Dubai mainland company. GoldenKey arranges the licence, tenancy registration and visas for companies locating in Bur Dubai, and we can recommend business centres and landlords in the area. Setting up a business in Bur Dubai means a Dubai mainland licence from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), an office or shop registered in the district and the approvals your activity needs.
Who sets up in Bur Dubai
On the ground, bur Dubai attracts trading companies, consultancies, tech start-ups and professional firms. Rents, footfall and parking differ from street to street, so we advise viewing two or three units before signing.
Licensing steps for Bur Dubai
The licence is granted by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). GoldenKey reserves the name, obtains initial approval, registers your tenancy contract for the Bur Dubai unit and submits the file; municipality and civil defence approvals follow for shops and food outlets.
Costs
Licence packages for Dubai mainland start from AED 15,000, plus rent for your Bur Dubai premises and any external approvals. We confirm every figure in writing.
Licensing steps
Step 1Activity and legal form
GoldenKey maps your business to the right Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) activity codes and recommends the legal form that fits ownership and liability needs. Nothing is submitted for setting up a business in Bur Dubai until you have reviewed and approved it.
Step 2Trade name and initial approval
GoldenKey files the name reservation and initial-approval request with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and obtains sector approvals where needed.
Step 3Office, MOA and submission
The memorandum of association is signed (online or before the notary), your tenancy is registered and the complete file is submitted to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). If the authority raises a query on setting up a business in Bur Dubai at this stage, we handle it the same day.
Step 4Licence, Chamber and immigration
In our experience, the Bur Dubai mainland licence is released, Chamber membership activated, and we open the establishment and labour files so visa processing can start.
Dubai mainland pricing
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
- Trade licence & registration
- Establishment card included
- GoldenKey full assistance
| Additional visa | AED 3,500 |
|---|---|
| Annual renewal | AED 12,000 |
Prices are indicative, in AED, exclusive of 5% VAT where applicable, and confirmed in writing before payment. Last updated 2026-10-06.
Why GoldenKey
In our experience, our office is a short drive from the Ajman Free Zone, Ajman DED and the immigration centre, so physical submissions for setting up a business in Bur Dubai happen the same day they are ready. As we tell every client, after your Bur Dubai licence is issued, the same team handles renewals, visa additions, amendments and tax registrations, so you never have to explain your business twice.
Call or WhatsApp GoldenKey today and a consultant will walk you through setting up a business in Bur Dubai step by step, with no obligation and no pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need an Emirati partner for a Bur Dubai mainland company?
Put simply, for most commercial and industrial activities, no. Since 2021 foreign nationals can own 100% of a Bur Dubai mainland LLC. A short list of strategic activities still requires Emirati participation, and GoldenKey checks your activity before you commit.
Are Bur Dubai mainland companies subject to corporate tax?
Yes — Mainland companies pay 9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000 and must register with the FTA, which GoldenKey handles as part of your setup.
How much office space do I need for a Bur Dubai mainland licence?
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) requires a registered tenancy for most licences. A small office or a desk in a business centre is enough for a few visas, and the visa quota increases with the floor area.
How long does Bur Dubai mainland company formation take?
With papers and a tenancy contract ready, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in most cases issues the licence within 4 business days. External approvals for regulated activities add time.
