What is a Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit in UAE

The Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit UAE is one of the greatest changes for business in 2025. It enables UAE free zone companies operating in mainland trade and grow easily in the local market. With this latest permit, a free zone company is now allowed to be active in the mainland without having to establish another entity or branch.

This is in line with Dubai’s vision of building a smart and open economy. Free zone mainland when an operating permit is obtained in the UAE. Under Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, the free zone mainland Operating Permit permits companies based in selected Free Zone jurisdictions to conduct business directly with mainland customers. It eliminates many old constraints and gives business owners more freedom to grow.

The process is faster and more streamlined as well. The online application for the mainland operating permit UAE is now available to entrepreneurs through our Invest in Dubai platform. This makes the installation effortless, and it is linked with the Dubai Economy and Tourism Department (DED).

If you’re planning to open a company in 2025 or if you already own a free zone business in Dubai, it’s worth taking a look at this permit. It can also help you find more clients, save money, and grow faster. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to apply for a mainland operating permit UAE, including cost, requirements, and advantages of it as well as how to apply.

Understanding the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit in the UAE

The Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit UAE is a new license that helps free zone companies do business in the UAE mainland legally. Before this regulation, companies within free zones could only engage in business activity within the free zone or outside of the UAE. In order to operate in the mainland, a company would need a UAE branch license and a local partner.

Now, with the freezone business permit Dubai, businesses can sell and provide services to mainland clients directly. It grants them greater flexibility and eliminates extraneous paperwork. (All of this is a result of the DED and free zone integration, which makes all business steps — including licensing and renewals — far less painful.

The objective of such a system is to link free zones and the mainland in one transparent plan. It would back the UAE’s goal to transform into a smart and global business hub. The free zone mainland operating permit in UAE also contributes to bringing investors and digital growth.

This visa is the perfect fit for e-commerce companies, consulting firms, technology startups, marketing, and services. It allows them to deal with local clients and still benefit from the free zone facilities. With it, they can scale across the UAE more rapidly at less cost and with better execution.

Legal Authority: Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025

The bases of the UAE Free Zone Companies allow them to do business in the mainland. The foundation of this business originated from Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, which permits all UAE Free Zone companies operating within the mainland under some specific guidelines. The law provides the terms of application under which firms are able to be registered and prescribes what they may or may not do, as well as the Free Zones in which they can apply.

The resolution seeks to balance growing the economy with responsible government. This is designed to prompt so-called dual licensing — where companies retain their registration in the free zone but secure a permit to operate in the larger marketplace of the UAE.

According to this rule, the businesses located in free zones are allowed:

• Provide their services directly to clients in the PRC.
• Get involved in tenders and contracts with companies from the mainland.
• The answer is to employ mainlanders and source the goods from local suppliers.
• Open offices or branches in mainland Dubai with permission from the representative office.

This is positive for market competition, investment, and supports the economic diversification strategy of Dubai. It also guarantees freedom and clarity, as activities are recorded with the free zone authority in addition to DED.

The Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025 is more than a legal update. Rather, it marks an ambitious policy overhaul that will streamline how investors can operate across diverse economic and commercial environments.

Why the Permit Matters for UAE Businesses

For years, free zone companies struggled to reach customers on the mainland. They had to have local partners or establish special licenses. The new Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit in the UAE removes these limits.

This permit allows Freezone business permit Dubai holders to sell products and services to anyone in the UAE. It gives flexibility and opens doors for new opportunities. 

Now, companies can:

• Expand client networks in the mainland.
• Compete for local government projects.
• Operate offices or stores closer to their clients.
• Build stronger brand visibility across the UAE.

The system also reduces duplication. Businesses no longer need to maintain two separate trade licenses. The DED and free zone integration means smoother renewals, single reporting systems, and better compliance tracking.

This shift is even more beneficial for small and medium businesses. It reduces costs, saves time and creates trust in local markets. Instead of sifting through elaborate paperwork, investors can focus on expanding their enterprise.

On the whole, the Dubai (mainland) trade license is one of the UAE’s moves towards simplifying and digitising business applications to improve its global competitiveness.

Eligibility Criteria

Not all businesses can apply for the UAE Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit.

Here are the main conditions:

• The company must hold a valid free zone license.
• The business activity should match one approved for mainland operation.
• The company must apply through the Invest in Dubai platform or the relevant authority.
• The free zone must have a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the DED for integration.
• The company must follow all commercial and labour laws of Dubai.

Approved zones usually include leading hubs like Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Airport Free Zone, and others that are aligned with DED and free zone integration programs.

In many cases, sectors such as technology, services, logistics, and trading are most encouraged to apply.

Companies that meet these conditions can enjoy the benefits of dual license free zone and mainland UAE privileges without losing their free zone incentives like 100% ownership, tax exemptions, and customs benefits.

How to Apply for Mainland Operating Permit UAE

Getting the mainland operating permit UAE is now very simple. The whole process is done online through the government’s platform. You don’t need to visit any office — everything happens in a few easy steps.

Step 1: Log in to Invest in Dubai

Go to the official Invest in Dubai website. From the menu, choose the option called “Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit.” This is where your application begins.

Step 2: Choose Your Free Zone and Activity

Select the free zone where your company is already registered. Then, pick the type of business activity you want to do in the mainland. This enables the system to direct your information to the appropriate authorities.

Step 3: Upload Documents

Secondly, submit all the documents that are necessary. These are your trade license, passport copies of the owners, shareholders’ information, and what you have chosen as your business activity. Just be sure everything is clear and up-to-date before uploading.

Step 4: Apply for Review of Your Application

When all documents are prepared, choose submit. Apply, compare,  and refine: Each time you apply for a new license through the Invest in Dubai system, your application is automatically forwarded to both your zone authority and the DED (Department of Economic Development) for examination/approval.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Get Approved

You will be required to pay your permit fee online after receiving approval of your application. When payment has been made, the business license for your Dubai mainland will be delivered to you digitally. Download it or print it and keep a copy on hand whenever you need one.

The whole thing is quick, seamless, and secure. The tight integration with the DED and free zone systems will ensure that your data is safe, secure, and treated properly.

You can also renew your permit or update the details of your business in the future from the same Invest in Dubai. That’s what would make keeping up with Dubai business rules easier than ever before.

Cost and Fees

The price of a Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit UAE, however, would depend on what free zone it is, the type of business, and the size. 

• But as per normal, at minimum, you’re looking at AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 per annum. (depending on the typing centre).
• Other expenses may involve administrative fees, document verification, and renewal.
• The licensee is relatively cheaper than the mainland branch license UAE, which one could have opened a separate one in Dubai. It minimizes duplicate costs and enables businesses to invest capital in their operations instead of duplicative registration fees.
• Invest in Dubai is also transparent about costs with businesses, issuing a complete cost estimate at the application stage.

Free Zone vs Mainland Operation: What Changes Now

Before this update, free zone companies could not operate freely in the mainland. They had to open new branches or depend on local distributors.

• With the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit in the UAE, this gap has been removed. Companies can now work directly with clients anywhere in Dubai and beyond.
• The dual license free zone and mainland UAE system connects both ecosystems. Free zone companies continue to benefit from tax and ownership benefits, but in return, they are entitled to trade in mainland destinations.
• This change is also in line with the UAE’s wider aim of enhancing cooperation among authorities through DED and freezone integration. It makes data transfer and compliance checks, and business renewals less complicated.

In a word, the free zone business license in Dubai allows one company to function efficiently within two complementary systems — an important leap towards complete economic freedom.

Benefits of Having a Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit

Getting a Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit brings many great advantages for business owners. It means more freedom to expand, trade, and connect with customers from all over the country. This new system is designed to facilitate local and foreign investors for bigger targets within a short time.

Here’s a simplified version of the key advantages:

• All Over the UAE Market Reach

With the free zone mainland operating license, you can sell and provide services across the UAE. You don’t need to obtain extra licenses to work in the mainland. All of this leads to more customers, more sales, and more chances for growth.

• Join Government and Private Projects

Your business can now take part in local government and private projects that were once limited to mainland companies. This opens new doors for partnerships, contracts, and long-term business success.

• Fast Digital Application

All you need to do is apply for the permit through Invest in Dubai. One hundred per cent of the process is online. There are no long waits or paper forms. It takes a few doughnut glazes to make your first trade, because everything from application to approval is fast, transparent, and digital.

• Lower Operating Costs

The fees for this license are cheap when compared to the mainland branch license. You get to operate at a lower cost and maintain your base in the free zone. This can save startups and small businesses money, but it can also help them grow faster.

• Seamless DED and Freezone Integration

The DED now collaborates closely with the free zones. This link will help you make your business journey smooth and error-free. Your data, records, and approvals are seamlessly managed between the two systems.

• Keep Free Zone Incentives

Though there is so much that you can do with your mainland operating permit and still receive all the free zone benefits, such as tax advantages, full ownership, and simple banking, you have the best of both worlds — free zone flexibility and mainland access.

• Build Stronger Brand Trust

Being able to operate in the free zone and the mainland provides your business with greater exposure. Your customers and the companies you partner with will perceive you as more reliable, more stable, and better positioned to grow. Assists in making a name for itself in the UAE.

This service is particularly useful for startups and then into SMEs that need to grow quickly. It provides them with the tools to grow without incurring additional costs or convoluted rules. And it also instils confidence in foreign investors to enter the UAE market, safe in the knowledge that they can upsize easily if their business takes off.

Challenges and Things to Know

The Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit is straightforward and efficient, but there are a few important points to consider before you apply. Knowing these things can prevent you from making costly mistakes and keep your business running as smoothly as possible.

Only a few free zones are allowed.

Not all free zones in the UAE are in this new system. The free zone mainland operating permit in the UAE is reserved for businesses existing in the approved free zones. Before applying, always confirm that your zone is eligible based on the official list.

Commercial operations should be in line with DED regulations.

Your company’s work or business activity should not be among those prohibited by the Dubai Economy and Tourism Department (DED). If your activity is not listed, you may require additional permission. Finding the right activity type ensures you won’t be delayed when you need your Dubai mainland operating permit.

Renewal and compliance are required every year.

Like all business licenses, this permit must be renewed yearly. The DED and free zone authorities may also check if your company follows the correct business rules. Keeping your records and documents updated helps you pass compliance reviews easily.

Some businesses need extra approvals.

Some categories of companies — for example, those in healthcare, finance, and education — may still require additional approvals from the mainland. These measures will ensure that businesses meet the UAE’s high standards of safety and quality.

Why Hire Business Setup Experts in Dubai? 

If you are confused about the procedure, it’s recommended to discuss it with business setup consultants in Dubai. They are familiar with all the rules, papers, and procedures to get a freezone business permit Dubai. Business setup in Dubai can save you time and help ensure that your application is completed accurately.

The newest free zone mainland operating license in the UAE may have some other very wonderful things to offer, but being well-informed and extra careful at every point is something you’re better off with. As long as you are well prepared, your company can scale up smoothly in both the freezone and mainland markets. Hire business setup consultants in Dubai for a smoother process.

FAQs: 

Q1: What is the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit UAE?

The Operating Permit UAE is a unique license permitting freezone companies to operate in the mainland. It allows them to sell products or provide services to mainland customers without opening a new storefront or securing another license.

Q2: Who is eligible for the Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit in the UAE?

Only businesses registered within approved free zones can apply. They are all numbered by the DED and individual free zone authorities.

Q3: How do I get a Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit in Dubai?

You can use the Dubai platform to apply online. Select your free zone (place of business), activity, and upload your trade license, passport copies, company details, etc. Once approved, pay the fee to receive your permit online.

Q4: What are the biggest advantages of getting this permit?

With the mainland operating permit UAE, you can work in the entire pass-through market and work on local projects, faster online approval, save money saver and don’t lose your free zone rewards.

Q5: Do I still require a mainland branch license UAE with this visa?

No. The free zone mainland operating license eliminates the requirement for a mainland branch license UAE. Under your current free zone company, you can directly work with mainland customers.

Conclusion

The UAE Free Zone Mainland Operating Permit is a new step in the UAE’s business world. It was launched under Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025. This permit helps connect free zones with the mainland. Now, companies can run their business in both areas more easily and quickly.

With the Invest in Dubai platform, business owners can now apply, pay, and handle all steps online. This shows Dubai’s big move toward a digital economy and better teamwork between DED and free zones.

For investors, the free zone mainland operating permit in UAE is not just a license. It is a great way to grow, work with more people, and succeed in Dubai’s fast-moving market.
If you want to grow your business and reach more customers, getting this Dubai mainland operating permit in 2025 can be your best next step. For better consultation, hire business setup experts in Dubai.