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Cost Calculator

Select an activity, choose emirates, and see the government fee breakdown.

Used for Dubai's formula (base + 5% of rent). Enter 0 for virtual/home-based licenses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does the mainland license cost calculator work?

Select your business activity, choose which emirates to compare, and enter your expected annual office rent. The calculator shows government DED fees based on each emirate's fee structure: Abu Dhabi charges per-activity, Dubai uses a formula (base + 5% rent), Ajman charges a flat AED 600, and RAK uses fee categories.

Are these the total costs for mainland company setup?

No. The calculator shows government DED/DET fees only. Total setup costs also include office rent, visa fees (AED 3,000-5,000 per visa), medical insurance, Emirates ID, and any external approval fees from authorities like Dubai Municipality or the health department.

Why do fees differ between emirates?

Each UAE emirate has its own Department of Economic Development with independent fee structures. Abu Dhabi sets per-activity fees (AED 100-6,000), Dubai uses a formula (base + 5% of rent), Ajman charges a flat AED 600 for standard licenses, and RAK uses 5 fee categories.

Which emirate is cheapest for a mainland license?

Ajman is the cheapest overall (flat AED 600 license fee, ~AED 4,500 total with mandatory charges). Abu Dhabi is cheapest for specific activities with DED fees as low as AED 100. Dubai is the most expensive but offers the largest market.

Need help choosing?

Compare across 5 emirates