Economic Development Department Dubai

Top Ten Free Zone Business Setup in Dubai

Overview of the Economic Development Department (DED) in Dubai

The Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai supports local businesses by managing trade licensing, registering companies, and helping entrepreneurs meet legal requirements. DED also works on improving policies that encourage investment, protect consumers, and grow the economy.

Our Key Services

Business Licensing and Registration

  • Issue and renew trade licenses for different business types
  • Support new business registration and name reservation
  • Typing services and notarized document assistance

Policy and Strategy

  • Plan long-term economic strategies
  • Promote innovation and investment growth

Compliance and Consumer Protection

  • Help businesses follow Dubai laws and policies
  • Handle consumer complaints and protect rights

Business Activity Approvals

  • Issue activity-specific permits for commercial or professional operations
  • Ensure proper industry regulation and monitoring

Startup & SME Support

  • Advisory support and mentorship programs
  • Funding, training, and networking opportunities

Market Supervision

  • Track and prevent unfair trade practices
  • Maintain healthy business competition

Investment Services

  • Guidance on profitable sectors in Dubai
  • Information on licenses, incentives, and approvals

DED Typing & Licensing Packages

Service Type Description Starting Price (AED)
Trade License Issuance New business license registration (LLC/Professional) 7,500
Trade License Renewal Annual renewal with documentation 6,000
Business Name Reservation Reserve a new trade name 620
Initial Approval DED preliminary business approval 310
License Amendment Change name, activity, or manager 1,500
License Cancellation Close business and cancel license officially 2,000

Business Licensing & Registration

Starting a business in Dubai means getting your license and approvals through DED. We help with:

  • Trade license issuance and renewal: Fast and accurate processing for mainland, professional, and commercial businesses.
  • Business name reservation: Aligns with UAE naming rules and brand strategy.
  • Initial approval: Securing government clearance for your chosen business activity.

Economic Policy & Strategy

DED shapes Dubai’s commercial growth with forward-thinking plans:

  • Policy drafting: Initiatives aimed at business growth, diversification, innovation, and investment.
  • Strategic rollout: Programs designed to attract investors, support SMEs, and position Dubai as a global business hub.

Commercial Compliance & Consumer Protection

DED ensures a fair marketplace through:

  • Regulatory audits: Routine checks and corrective action to curb malpractice.
  • Consumer dispute resolution: Quick help for customer complaints and protecting consumer rights.

Business Activity Approvals

Each trade or professional activity in Dubai requires formal approval:

  • Industry-specific permits: Licenses for sectors like retail, manufacturing, and food services.
  • Regulatory screening: Ensures compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.

SME & Startup Support

Small businesses and startups benefit from:

  • Financing options: Grants, loans, and subsidies.
  • Workshops & mentoring: Tailored help in legal compliance, marketing, and operations.
  • Co-working and incubation: For early-stage companies launching in Dubai.

Economic Research & Market Insights

DED’s data services include:

  • Market studies: Trends, demand forecasts, and market sizing.
  • Economic reports: Sector reviews and policy updates.

Investor Services

DED supports foreign investors with:

  • Sector guidance: Benefits and incentives for industry-specific investment.
  • Assistance with approvals: Navigating government channels and leveraging incentives.

Standard Fees & Estimates

Service Estimated Fee (AED)
Trade license (new mainland) 1,000 – 3,000
Initial approval 200 – 500
Name reservation 620
License amendment 600 – 1,200
License cancellation 300 – 800
Memorandum typing & notarization 800 – 1,500

Our Services


Mehar Business Solution handles everything from license applications to amendments. Fast, reliable, and fully compliant.

Contact us: +971 56 5539955 | info@ajmanbusinesssetup.com

Mehar Business Solution LLC
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