What is the cheapest legal way to start a business in Dubai in 2026?
Short answer: The Dubai E-Trader licence at AED 1,070/year (professional) or AED 1,370/year (commercial), plus about AED 346.50 in transaction fees. It is 100% online, requires no office, and is open to all nationalities aged 21+ with a UAE residence.
Key facts
- E-Trader licence fee: AED 1,070/year professional, AED 1,370/year commercial
- Transaction fees: ~AED 346.50 (new), ~AED 115.50 (renewal)
- Office required: No — work from home
- Application: 100% online, often issued same day
- Eligibility: UAE residents aged 21+ with valid Emirates ID
- Allows up to 10 activities, 100% foreign ownership, business bank account
Full explanation
A Mainland LLC trade licence in Dubai typically costs AED 12,000–15,000 in the first year (tradename + initial approval + MOA + office Ejari + DET fees). The E-Trader licence is the recommended starter — at roughly one-tenth the cost — and lets entrepreneurs validate their idea and generate revenue before upgrading to a Mainland LLC.
Source page
E-Trader licence page →Published by Dubai Economy Center · Operated by Goodhand Government Transaction Center · Authorized DET service center · Last verified 2026-06-27