For international investors, the biggest barrier to entering the Dubai market has always been the requirement to rent a physical office space. The upfront cost, the Ejari contract, and the 12-month commitment can be daunting for a startup. But in 2026, Dubai has a solution that changes everything: the Instant License. This revolutionary initiative allows you to set up a mainland company in minutes, with absolutely zero requirement for office space in the first year. In this guide by Tdabeer, we explain how you can launch your business today from anywhere in the world.
What is the Dubai Instant License?
Launched by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the Instant License is designed to fast-track business setup. It removes the two most time-consuming steps of the traditional process:
- No Tenancy Contract (Ejari): You don’t need to rent an office for the first 12 months.
- No MOA Notarization: The Memorandum of Association is generated electronically instantly.
This means you can get your trade license in hand in literally 5 to 10 minutes once the payment is made.
Who is Eligible?
The Instant License is available to almost everyone, including:
- Legal Structures: LLC (Limited Liability Company), Sole Establishment, and Civil Company.
- Shareholders: UAE Residents (with Emirates ID) and Non-Residents (with Passport copy and visit visa).
- Activities: Over 2,000 commercial and professional activities are covered (General Trading, Consultancy, IT, etc.). Note that specialized activities requiring external approvals (like clinics or schools) are excluded.
Cost Breakdown: Instant vs. Traditional License
The financial advantage of the Instant License is clear when you look at the first-year savings:
| Expense Item | Instant License (Year 1) | Traditional License |
|---|---|---|
| Office Rent | AED 0 (Not Required) | AED 30,000+ (Required) |
| Market Fees (5% of Rent) | AED 3,000 (Flat Fee) | AED 1,500+ (Depends on Rent) |
| MOA & Notary Fees | Included in E-channel | AED 1,000 – 2,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~AED 10,000 – 15,000 | ~AED 45,000+ (incl. rent) |
What Happens in Year 2? (Transparency Alert)
At Tdabeer, we believe in full transparency. The “No Office” perk is valid for the first year only. Upon renewal in the second year, you will be required to:
- Provide a valid Ejari (tenancy contract). You can solve this affordably by renting a “Virtual Office” or “Sustainability Desk”.
- Submit the physical MOA if requested.
Think of Year 1 as a “Grace Period” to test the market with minimal risk.
Can I Apply Online?
Yes. If you have a UAE Pass or Emirates ID, the process is 100% digital. For non-residents without a digital ID, the process is done through authorized service centers like Tdabeer. We handle the account creation, trade name reservation, and payment on your behalf.
Plan Your Next Steps
Ready to Launch in 5 Minutes?
Why wait weeks when you can start today? Send us your passport copy, and Tdabeer will generate your Instant License and email it to you before you finish your coffee.
