WhatsApp quoteGoldenKey arranges the licence, tenancy registration and visas for companies locating in Karama, and we can recommend business centres and landlords in the area. For most clients, setting up a business in Karama 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. Karama is a dense commercial district popular with South Asian SMEs, and it is one of the locations founders ask GoldenKey about most when planning a Dubai mainland company.
Who sets up in Karama
As we tell every client, karama 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 Karama
In practice, the licence is issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). GoldenKey reserves the name, obtains initial approval, registers your tenancy contract for the Karama unit and submits the file; municipality and civil defence approvals follow for shops and food outlets.
Costs
As we tell every client, licence packages for Dubai mainland start from AED 15,000, plus rent for your Karama 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. Expect clear updates from your GoldenKey consultant while this step runs for setting up a business in Karama.
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
After the MOA is signed and the office tenancy registered, GoldenKey lodges the full submission with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Expect clear updates from your GoldenKey consultant while this step runs for setting up a business in Karama.
Step 4Licence, Chamber and immigration
The Karama 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
GoldenKey's consultants have handled setting up a business in Karama for traders, consultants, tech entrepreneurs and family offices, which gives us a realistic view of what each authority approves quickly. Our quotations for setting up a business in Karama list every government fee and our service fee on one page, in writing, before you pay anything.
As we tell every client, prefer to visit? Our Ajman office welcomes walk-ins during working hours, and we can also meet you in Dubai or Sharjah by appointment to discuss setting up a business in Karama.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need an Emirati partner for a Karama mainland company?
Importantly, for most commercial and industrial activities, no. Since 2021 foreign nationals can own 100% of a Karama mainland LLC. A short list of strategic activities still requires Emirati participation, and GoldenKey checks your activity before you commit.
Can a Karama mainland company trade in other emirates?
Yes — A mainland licence is valid across the UAE, and you can open branches in other emirates by registering with their economic departments.
Can I convert my free zone company to a Karama mainland company?
Put simply, you cannot convert directly, but you can open a mainland branch of your free zone company or set up a new mainland LLC and transfer the business. GoldenKey advises on the most tax-efficient route.
How long does Karama mainland company formation take?
With supporting documents and a tenancy contract ready, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) typically issues the licence within 4 working days (Monday to Friday). External approvals for regulated activities add time.
