PRO & Business Setup Fee Schedule
An itemized reference guide summarizing official UAE government portal fees, DED trade licensing costs, and MOHRE labor visa clearing charges across Dubai.
Navigating Dubai Government & Visa fees
Budgeting for company formation or ongoing administrative renewals in Dubai requires a clear understanding of the fees charged by various government departments. Many start-ups struggle with unexpected costs from immigration approvals, labor card typing, and Ejari certifications.
Below is an itemized breakdown of standard government fees for mainland and free-zone structures in Dubai, along with a structured checklist for trade license renewals.
1. Government Visa Processing Fees (GDRFA / ICA)
Employment visa costs vary based on whether the applicant is currently inside or outside the UAE:
- Entry Permit: Standard employment entry permit quota typing: AED 500 - 800.
- Change of Status: Required if the applicant is inside the country without exiting: AED 650 - 750.
- Medical Fitness: Standard test: AED 320; VIP Express service: AED 750 - 850.
- Emirates ID Typing: Registration and typing fees (varies by visa duration): AED 170 - 270.
2. MOHRE Labor Quotas & Permits
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) categorizes companies (Class A, B, or C) and charges fees based on their rating:
- Work Permit Quota: Quota application and work permit approval: AED 200 - 300.
- Work Permit Issuance: Standard permit issuance fees range from AED 300 to AED 2,000 depending on the company category.
- Labor Card Renewal: Annual renewal of electronic labor cards: AED 300 - 1,000.
- Labor Bank Guarantee: A deposit of AED 3,000 per employee, or an insurance policy fee of AED 150 - 250.
3. DED Licensing & Commercial Setup Costs
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) mainland licensing fees depend on your business activity and location:
- Trade Name Reservation: Reservation and registration: AED 620.
- Initial Approval: Application and certificate: AED 120.
- Commercial Lease Ejari: Registration and certification: AED 220 - 300.
- Chamber of Commerce: Annual membership registration fee: AED 1,200.
Step-by-Step Corporate Trade License Renewal Checklist
Failing to renew your Trade License before its expiration date results in a monthly administrative fine of **AED 250** and can lead to the suspension of your corporate bank accounts and employee visas. Follow this 4-step process for renewals:
Step 1: Ejari Contract Verification
Ensure your commercial office lease contract is renewed and successfully registered in the Ejari system. The contract must be valid for at least 3 months from the date of DED submission.
Step 2: DED Portal Renewal Submission
Log in to the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) portal, submit your renewed Ejari number, and upload copies of your active trade license and partners' passports.
Step 3: Payment Voucher Settlement
Once the DED reviews your files, they will issue a payment voucher. Pay the government fees, municipal taxes, and Chamber of Commerce registration costs within 30 days to avoid late penalties.
Step 4: Renewed License Printing
Once payment is confirmed, download and print your new corporate Trade License. Be sure to share the renewed file with your corporate banks, suppliers, and tax consultants.
Ensure Flawless PRO Execution
Our executive setup and PRO services team is available to coordinate visa applications, trade license renewals, and immigration portal updates under the leadership of Managing Partner Safwan.
