📌Approximate Timelines for Business License Approval in the UAE
Introduction
One of the most frequently asked questions when setting up a company in the UAE is: “How long does the business license process take?”
While timelines vary based on the type of jurisdiction (Mainland or Free Zone), business activity, and document readiness, the UAE remains one of the fastest jurisdictions globally for company registration. This guide offers a breakdown of the typical duration at each step of the registration process.
Overview: Mainland vs. Free Zone Timelines
Name Reservation
1 working day
1 working day
Initial Approval
1–2 working days
1–3 working days
Office Lease & Ejari
2–5 working days
1–2 working days (if included in package)
MOA / AOA Drafting & Notarization
1–2 working days
1–2 working days
Final Submission & Payment
1–2 working days
1–2 working days
Trade License Issuance
Same day – 2 days
Same day – 2 days
🕐 Total Estimated Time
Mainland License: 5 to 10 working days
Free Zone License: 3 to 7 working days
Step-by-Step Timeline Breakdown
1️⃣ Trade Name Reservation
Timeframe: 1 working day Both Mainland and Free Zones offer instant name checks and same-day reservation in most cases.
2️⃣ Initial Approval
Mainland: 1–2 working days (depends on activity) Free Zone: 1–3 working days
Requires KYC, passport copy, and business activity
Delays may occur if third-party approvals are needed (e.g., health, education, transport sectors)
3️⃣ Office Space Agreement
Mainland: 2–5 working days (Ejari registration can take time depending on property) Free Zone: 1–2 working days (often bundled in the package)
Physical offices require lease contracts
Flexi-desks in Free Zones are quicker and more flexible
4️⃣ Document Drafting (MOA / AOA / LSA Agreements)
Timeframe: 1–2 working days
Mainland licenses need notarization at a public notary
Free Zones provide template documents for faster processing
5️⃣ Final Submission & Payment
Timeframe: 1–2 working days Once documents are submitted and payments made, most Free Zones and DED departments issue licenses within 24–48 hours.
6️⃣ Trade License Issuance
Timeframe: Same day to 2 working days
E-licenses are common in Free Zones (instant issuance)
Mainland license issuance may require final internal review
Factors That Can Affect Timeline
Business Activity Type
Activities requiring external approvals (e.g., education, legal, medical) can add 5–10 days
Multiple Shareholders
Requires more documentation and can slow down board resolution signing
Visa Processing
Adds an additional 5–10 working days post-license issuance
Office Space Readiness
Delay in tenancy registration (Ejari) can stall license
Free Zone vs. Mainland
Free Zones are typically faster and more streamlined
Fastest Free Zones in the UAE (2024–2025 Trends)
IFZA (Dubai)
2–3 working days
SHAMS (Sharjah)
2–4 working days
RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah)
3–5 working days
DMCC (Dubai)
5–7 working days
ADGM (Abu Dhabi)
5–10 working days (regulated)
⚡ Sharkup Tip: Some Free Zones offer same-day digital licenses if all documents and payments are submitted correctly.
Post-License Timeline (Optional but Important)
Corporate Bank Account Setup
5–15 working days (varies by bank)
Visa Application (Investor / Employee)
5–10 working days
Customs Code Registration
3–5 working days
VAT / Tax Registration
5–10 working days
Conclusion
With the right preparation and expert guidance, you can have your UAE business license in as little as 3–7 working days in Free Zones and 5–10 working days in the Mainland. Understanding each stage of the process will help you avoid delays and launch with confidence.
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