Technical Services License in Dubai

Types of technical services licenses in Dubai

When starting a technical services company, it is essential to understand the types of licenses available. Depending on your target market, operational goals, and location preferences, business owners can pick one of the two primary options: mainland license or free zone license.

Mainland license

A mainland license allows businesses to function anywhere within the UAE market, including onshore projects and contracts. Issued by the DET, this license is ideal for companies seeking flexibility and access to a broader market.

Key features of a mainland technical services license:

• Businesses can work with government entities, private clients, and corporations.
• No restrictions on the number of employees or office locations.
• Allows businesses to bid for larger contracts, including local infrastructure projects.
• Requires a local sponsor or agent (depending on the company structure).

For businesses targeting the Dubai mainland, a mainland license offers the greatest flexibility to expand operations across the Emirates.

Free zone license

A free zone license is handed out by particular free zone authorities and is ideal for businesses that plan to operate within designated economic zones. Free zones such as DMCC, IFZA, and SPC Free Zone offer competitive advantages for startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs).

Major features of a free zone technical services license:

• 100% foreign ownership without requiring a local sponsor.
• Tax benefits, including possible 0% corporate tax.
• Budget-effective setup solutions, including virtual offices and flexi-desk options.
• Simplified visa processing for employees and investors.

However, companies operating under a free zone license are restricted from directly working within Dubai mainland. They cannot rent a shop or have a physical facility in the mainland, but they might be able to provide services in clients' facilities that are on the mainland.

Cost of a technical services license in Dubai

Understanding the cost of obtaining a technical services license in Dubai is crucial for budgeting and planning your business launch. The expenses you incur will largely depend on the jurisdiction you select, the organizational structure of your business, and the range of supplementary services you choose to include.

Breakdown of costs (mainland vs. free zone)

The expenses associated with acquiring a technical services license in Dubai can differ significantly based on whether you operate on the mainland or in a free zone. Below is a detailed breakdown of expenses:

Note: these ranges are indicative and may vary depending on the particular free zone or mainland activity, number of shareholders, and other factors.

Additional fees to consider

Beyond the standard license fees, businesses should account for these additional expenses:

• Office setup: furniture, IT systems, and office utilities.
• Marketing and branding: logo design, website development, and advertising.
• Professional consultancy fees: many businesses hire consultants to ensure a smooth business setup.
• Employee visas: costs for visas and health insurance for employees.

By calculating all possible expenses in advance, entrepreneurs can ensure they stay within budget while obtaining their technical services license in Dubai.
 

Who can apply for a technical services license in Dubai?

Starting a technical services company in Dubai requires meeting concrete eligibility criteria, submitting the right documentation, and showcasing relevant qualifications. The city’s business-friendly environment makes the process accessible to both individuals and companies who wish to enter this growing market.

Basic eligibility criteria

To qualify for a technical services license in Dubai, individuals and businesses must meet the following basic criteria:

• Age requirement: the applicant must be at least 21 years old.
• Legal eligibility: the applicant should not have any legal cases or restrictions.
• Business structure: decide on your company structure, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, Free Zone Entity (a free zone-based LLC), or branch of a foreign company.
• Local agent (for mainland): for mainland operations, businesses may require a local sponsor or agent, depending on ownership rules.

Entrepreneurs from any country can apply for a technical services license, as Dubai welcomes investors with minimal restrictions.

Required documentation

To obtain a technical services license in Dubai, businesses must prepare and file the following documents:

• Passport copies of the business owner(s) and shareholders.
• Visa copies, including residency or investor visas, if applicable.
• Emirates ID copies (for UAE residents).

Ensuring all documents are complete and accurate will streamline the application process and reduce delays.

Skills and qualifications needed

While the technical services license does not require specialized educational qualifications, businesses offering technical solutions must showcase expertise and reliability. Investors must:

• Have relevant experience in technical services such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or IT solutions.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the UAE’s market, safety regulations, and client expectations.
• Employ skilled professionals with the necessary certifications and training.

Businesses with qualified personnel, proper planning, and clear service offerings will find it easier to gain approvals and establish credibility in the market.

Permitted activities under a technical services license

A technical services license in Dubai covers a broad range of permitted activities, allowing businesses to specialize in different technical and maintenance services. Understanding the list of activities helps entrepreneurs align their operations with Dubai’s regulations.

Full list of permitted activities

The technical services license enables businesses to engage in the following activities:

• Air conditioning, ventilation, and HVAC systems maintenance
• Electrical and plumbing services
• Carpentry and flooring work
• Building maintenance and cleaning services
• Painting and wallpaper installation
• IT infrastructure setup and networking solutions
• Glasswork and aluminum installations
• Mechanical equipment maintenance
• Installation of fire safety and security systems
• Repair and maintenance of elevators and escalators

These permitted business activities provide opportunities for businesses to serve residential, commercial, and industrial clients across Dubai. Keep in mind that selecting the wrong activity (for example, only “General maintenance” while actually performing specialized electrical, HVAC, or fire‑safety work) can cause problems with tenders and penalties for doing work outside the licensed scope.

Examples of popular technical services

Several technical services stand out as highly in demand in Dubai due to rapid infrastructure development and growing residential communities:

1. HVAC maintenance. With Dubai’s climate, HVAC installation, and maintenance services are consistently sought after.
2. Electrical and plumbing solutions. These essential services are required for both residential and commercial buildings.
3. IT infrastructure. Businesses specializing in IT solutions, such as server installation and network cabling, find significant demand from companies across sectors.
4. Building maintenance. Offering comprehensive building care, including painting, cleaning, and repair services, is a profitable niche.

These examples highlight the flexibility and potential profitability of a technical services company operating under a valid license in Dubai. Entrepreneurs can choose a specific niche or provide multiple services to maximize market opportunities. You can consult with a business setup expert to advise on the possible range of activities that can be covered by your technical license.

Step-by-step guide to starting a technical services company in Dubai

Getting your technical services company in Dubai up and running is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to successfully obtain the license and launch your business.

1. Decide on your business jurisdiction (mainland or free zone)

The first step is to choose where you want to set up your company:

• Mainland: ideal for businesses targeting onshore clients and government contracts.
• Free zone: suitable for companies looking to operate from within a free zone, as well as a possible 0% corporate tax benefit.

Your decision will impact your license cost, ownership structure, and operational scope.

2. Choose a suitable business name

Select a business name that aligns with Dubai’s naming conventions. The name must:

• Avoid any offensive or religious terms.
• Be unique and not already registered.
• Include words related to your technical services business.
• Be approved by the DET or free zone authority.

Note: investors can reserve the trade name and obtain the initial approval for their technical activities online through the Invest in Dubai portal or via an authorized service center linked to the DET.

3. Decide on your legal structure

Pick the legal entity type that best suits your company:

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): common for mainland businesses.
• Sole proprietorship: suitable for individuals offering specialized services.
• Free zone entity (free zone-based LLC): ideal for businesses in designated free zones.
• Branch of a foreign company: for foreign businesses seeking to expand their operations.

Your chosen structure determines ownership requirements, liability, and operational guidelines.

4. Obtain office space or virtual office (if applicable)

• For mainland companies, physical office space is mandatory.
• In free zones, businesses can opt for cost-effective solutions like virtual offices or flexi-desks, depending on the scale of operations.
• Ensure your office meets Dubai Municipality and free zone authority standards.

5. Submit a license application and mandatory documentation

Prepare and hand the necessary documents over to the relevant authority (DET for mainland, free zone authority for free zones). These include:

• Passport copies of owners and partners.
• Trade name reservation certificate.
• Initial approval documents.
• Lease agreement (Ejari) for office premises.

6. Obtain approvals from DET or free zone authorities

Once your documents are reviewed, obtain the final approvals. Mainland businesses need clearance from DET, while free zone entities require approval from their respective free zone authorities.

7. Receive your technical services license

After approvals, your technical services license will be issued, allowing you to begin operations. You can then proceed with:

• Opening a corporate bank account.
• Obtaining a third party approval (if required).
• Applying for employee visas (if required).
• Setting up accounting systems to guarantee financial compliance.

For mainland companies, the typical processing time for a technical services license is around 5–7 working days. In free zones, licenses are usually issued within 1–5 working days, depending on the package, number of visas, and whether any third‑party approvals are required.

Why you need a technical services license in Dubai

All in all, a technical services license in Dubai is not only a legal requirement but also a vital tool for a company’s advancement and sustainability. Here’s why obtaining this license is essential for businesses in the technical sector.

Legal compliance

Operating without a valid technical services license is illegal in Dubai and can lead to severe penalties, from fines to legal action, and even shutdown of operations. A proper license ensures your technical services company complies with the regulations set in place by the DET or designated free zone authorities. In addition:

• For certain specialized activities, authorities may request evidence of professional experience, such as technical certificates or approvals from competent bodies.
• Your company is expected to follow local health and safety (HSE) rules, building codes, and municipal regulations, especially when working on construction sites or other high‑risk facilities.

Business growth opportunities

Dubai’s booming infrastructure and commercial sectors create ample opportunities for companies with a technical services license. Key benefits include:

1. Access to high-value contracts. Licensed businesses can work with government entities, corporate clients, and private customers.
2. Enhanced credibility. Clients trust companies with a valid license for quality and professionalism.
3. Expansion potential. The technical services market is thriving in Dubai's mainland, residential communities, and free zones.
4. Ease of setup. Dubai’s business-friendly policies make it straightforward to start and grow a technical services company.

Securing a technical services license in Dubai safeguards your business activities while paving the way for sustained growth in one of the most lively and favorable markets on the globe.

How Emirabiz can help

Navigating the process of obtaining a technical services license in Dubai can be complex, but our professional consultants are here to simplify every step. We offer:

• Expert guidance
  • Assistance with deciding on the most suitable jurisdiction and business structure.
• Document preparation
  • Support with gathering and filing all required documents to the corresponding authority bodies.
• Cost-efficient solutions
  • Tailored packages to suit your budget and business goals.
• End-to-end support
  • From office space selection to visa processing and bank account setup, we handle all the steps and elements of your business setup.

Ready to establish your technical services company in Dubai? Our experienced team will guide you through the process, help you calculate the cost, and ensure your business complies with all legal requirements. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a technical services license cost?

The technical services license cost in Dubai varies depending on several aspects. On average:

• Mainland license costs between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000, excluding office space and sponsor fees.
• Free zone license costs start at AED 6,000 and can go up as high as possible, depending on the freezone and the number of visa allocations under the license.
• Additional fees, such as office rent, visa charges, and administrative approvals, may apply.

What are the benefits of a technical services license?

The main benefits of a technical services license include:

• Legal authorization to operate in Dubai’s growing technical sector.
• Flexibility to offer services across residential, commercial, and industrial markets.
• Access to tax benefits, especially in free zones.
• Opportunities to work with government entities and secure high-value contracts.
• Enhanced credibility and trust among clients and partners. 

Can I operate outside Dubai with this license?

Yes, a technical services license in Dubai enables businesses to function across the Emirates. However, if you wish to provide services internationally, you may need to obtain relevant approvals in the target market.

What are the most affordable options?

The most affordable option for obtaining a technical services license is through a free zone setup. Dubai’s free zones offer budget-friendly solutions, including:

• Reduced license fees.
• Flexi-desk or virtual office options.
• 100% foreign ownership with no requirement for a local sponsor.

Mainland setups, while slightly more expensive, provide greater operational flexibility and access to the domestic market.