Software Development & IT Services License in Dubai Mainland (DET)
Establishing a **Software Development & IT Services** company in **Dubai Mainland (DET)** (Dubai) is an effective solution for entrepreneurs seeking rapid market entry without unnecessary administrative hurdles. The freezone framework allows completing legal entity registration within 1 working days using flexible desk arrangements.
Establishing a Software Development & IT Services company in Dubai Mainland (DET) (Dubai) is an effective solution for entrepreneurs seeking rapid market entry without unnecessary administrative hurdles. The freezone framework allows completing legal entity registration within 1 working days using flexible desk arrangements.
1. Regulatory Requirements & Licensing Framework
Direct Freezone Licensing Track
This activity code does not require third-party government NOCs. The commercial license is issued directly by Dubai Mainland (DET).
2. Jurisdiction Specifications
| Criterion | Dubai Mainland (DET) |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction Type | MAINLAND |
| License Turnaround | 1–3 working days |
| Physical Office | Ejari lease mandatory |
| Visa Allocation | Up to 10 visas |
| Annual Audit | Mandatory |
| Digital Bank Onboarding | Express digital track (3–7 days) |
| Starting Base Tariff | from 18,500 AED |
3. Setup Roadmap & Timeline
License Issuance
1–3 daysDocument submission and digital license issuance. Timeline: 1–3 working days.
Establishment Card
2–3 daysEstablishment Card registration via immigration portal to unlock visa allocations.
Medical & Emirates ID
4–6 daysVIP medical examination and biometric capture for Emirates ID residency card.
Corporate Bank Account
3–7 daysCorporate banking account activation via Digital Bank flow or Tier-1 bank.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Is a physical office mandatory for a "Software Development & IT Services" license in Dubai Mainland (DET)? ▼
No. Businesses operating under "Software Development & IT Services" in Dubai Mainland (DET) can utilize virtual desks or flexi-desk arrangements without a dedicated physical office.
Can I open a digital corporate bank account for a "Software Development & IT Services" license in Dubai Mainland (DET)? ▼
Yes. Dubai Mainland (DET) licenses for "Software Development & IT Services" maintain high approval rates across UAE digital business banks. Remote onboarding takes 3–7 business days after Emirates ID issuance.
How many residence visas can be issued under a Dubai Mainland (DET) license? ▼
Standard license tiers in Dubai Mainland (DET) support from 0 up to 10 residence visas for shareholders and employees without requiring a physical office. Higher quotas are available with dedicated office space upgrades.
Do I need to travel to the UAE to set up a company in Dubai Mainland (DET)? ▼
License registration and document preparation in Dubai Mainland (DET) are fully remote - only a passport scan is required. A physical visit to the UAE is necessary for the residence visa stage: medical test and Emirates ID biometrics (4–6 working days).
Alternative Jurisdictions for Software Development & IT Services
20 zonesMeydan Free Zone
1–2 days · from 12,500 AED
IFZA Dubai
2–4 days · from 12,900 AED
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
7–12 days · from 32,000 AED
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
14–25 days · from 45,000 AED
Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO / DTEC)
3–5 days · from 13,500 AED
Dubai Internet City (DIC)
5–9 days · from 24,500 AED
Dubai Science Park (DSP)
6–10 days · from 24,000 AED
Dubai Outsource City (DOC)
5–8 days · from 21,000 AED
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
12–20 days · from 42,000 AED
Masdar City Free Zone
3–6 days · from 12,000 AED
Sharjah Publishing City (SPC Free Zone)
1–2 days · from 5,750 AED
Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
2–3 days · from 5,750 AED
Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
2–5 days · from 5,500 AED
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
2–5 days · from 6,000 AED
RAK Digital Assets Oasis (RAK DAO)
3–6 days · from 14,500 AED
Ajman Media City Free Zone (AMCFZ)
1–3 days · from 5,555 AED
Umm Al Quwain Free Trade Zone (UAQ FTZ)
2–4 days · from 5,500 AED
Creative City Fujairah
1–3 days · from 5,500 AED
Abu Dhabi Mainland (ADDED)
2–4 days · from 16,000 AED
Sharjah Mainland (SEDD)
2–5 days · from 14,500 AED
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