Dubai continues to attract global investors and professionals seeking to establish sustainable businesses in the services sector. Among the most sought-after business permits is the technical services license in Dubai, a crucial authorisation that allows companies to legally offer specialised technical and maintenance services across the Emirate.
With the city’s booming construction, real estate, and commercial infrastructure, the demand for reliable technical services has surged, making this license a practical gateway for entrepreneurs who wish to tap into Dubai’s thriving economy.
Technical Services License Activities in Dubai
A technical services license in Dubai is a commercial license issued by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) that enables individuals or businesses to provide professional, mechanical, or maintenance-based services.
This type of license is ideal for business setup in Dubai that delivers hands-on, technical work rather than trading goods or offering consultancy.
The technical services license activities in Dubai include a wide range of permitted operations, such as:
- Air conditioning, ventilation, and filtration system installation and maintenance
- Plumbing and sanitary contracting
- Electrical fitting and repair
- Painting and wallpaper fixing
- Floor and wall tiling works
- Carpentry and flooring contracting
- Partition and false ceiling installation
- Satellite equipment installation and maintenance
- Insulation contracting
These activities make it possible for a technical services company in Dubai to operate across residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Such flexibility has positioned technical service providers as key players supporting Dubai’s rapid urban development.
Benefits of Obtaining a Technical Services License in Dubai
Getting a Dubai technical services license opens numerous business advantages, making it a preferred choice among entrepreneurs and professionals. Key benefits include:
- 100 per cent foreign ownership - Recent reforms now allow full ownership for most commercial activities, including technical services.
- No personal income tax - Entrepreneurs enjoy tax-free earnings, boosting profitability.
- Broad market access - License holders can work with individuals, businesses, and even government entities across the UAE.
- Flexibility and scalability - You can easily expand your technical services company in Dubai as demand grows.
- Ease of visa issuance - Investors and employees can obtain UAE residency visas under the license.
- Minimal capital requirement - Generally, no large initial investment is required to begin operations.
- Stable economy and growing demand - Dubai’s ongoing real estate and infrastructure expansion continuously generates high demand for maintenance and technical expertise.
Overall, the technical services license in Dubai is both cost-efficient and highly rewarding for businesses that rely on skill-based services.
Legal Structure
Choosing the right legal structure impacts your technical services company license cost in Dubai, as well as your operational flexibility and ownership rights. The table below presents a quick overview of the common business structures
Legal Structure | Jurisdiction | Ownership & Liability | Key Benefits for a Technical Services Company in Dubai |
Mainland LLC | Dubai Mainland | 100 per cent foreign ownership permitted for most activities | Full access to UAE market, ability to bid for government contracts |
Free Zone Company | Designated Free Zones | 100 per cent foreign ownership | Lower setup costs and simplified process, though some market restrictions |
Branch Office in Dubai (of Foreign Company) | Mainland or Free Zone | Same legal entity as parent company | Ideal for international companies expanding into Dubai |
Documents Required to Obtain a Technical Services License in Dubai
To apply for a technical services license in Dubai, business owners must prepare specific documents and submit them to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (for mainland setup) or a relevant Free Zone authority. The required documents generally include:
- Completed application form
- Passport copies of all shareholders and managers
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Tenancy contract or Ejari for office premises
- Initial approval certificate from authorities
- Notarised Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Depending on your business activity, additional external approvals from the Dubai Municipality may be required. Having these documents ready ensures a smooth and timely licensing process.
Procedure to Obtain a Technical Services License in Dubai
The process for obtaining a technical services license in Dubai is straightforward if followed systematically. Seeking the help of Commitbiz business setup consultants can prove beneficial.
Below is a step-by-step guide to get a technical services license in the Emirate:
- Select your activity
Choose the appropriate business activity from the list of approved technical services license activities in Dubai. - Choose Jurisdiction and Structure
Decide whether to establish your company on the mainland or in a free zone. Depending on the jurisdiction, select the legal entity that suits your business needs. - Reserve a Trade Name
Submit your trade name options to the DET or respective free zone authority. The name must comply with UAE naming conventions. - Apply for Initial Approval
Submit the application with preliminary documentation to receive the initial approval for your license. - Prepare Legal Documents
Draft and notarise the Memorandum of Association (for LLCs) and appoint a local service agent, if required. Our consultants will then submit all the documents to the authorities for approval. - Secure Office Space
Obtain an Ejari tenancy contract for your company’s physical address. Commitbiz consultants can help you find an office space for rent in Dubai. - Collect the License
Once approved, you will receive your Dubai technical services license.
After license issuance, apply for visas for owners and employees, and open a business bank account in Dubai.
Why Commitbiz?
A technical services license in Dubai serves as the foundation for a profitable and legally compliant business in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. Whether you are a start-up owner, investor, or established entrepreneur, this license enables you to provide a wide range of essential services while benefiting from Dubai’s business-friendly environment.
With manageable setup costs, a simple registration process, and access to a booming service industry, obtaining a technical services license in Dubai is a smart investment for anyone looking to establish a long-term venture in the UAE.
Partnering with experienced Corporate Service Providers at Commitbiz helps you plan your business better for long-term growth and success. Contact us today for more!
What is the average technical services license cost in Dubai?
The technical services license cost varies depending on the activity type and jurisdiction. For a mainland setup in Dubai, Commitbiz offers packages starting from AED 18,000. Contact our experts for a tailored quote.
How long does it take to get a technical services license?
Typically, it takes 7 to 14 business days to obtain a technical services license in Dubai, provided all documents are in order.
Do I need a local sponsor for a technical services company in Dubai?
Under the updated UAE Commercial Companies Law, many technical services activities now allow 100 per cent foreign ownership. However, certain specific activities may still require a local service agent for administrative representation.
What is the difference between a technical services license and a commercial license?
A technical services license in Dubai focuses on skilled or mechanical services (such as repairs and maintenance), while a commercial license is for trading goods or merchandise.
How often should I renew my Dubai technical services license?
You must renew your Dubai technical services license annually.