Technical Services license in Dubai, UAE

Name: Shuraa India
Brand: Shuraa
Rating: 4.9 (2835 reviews)

Dubai is growing faster than ever. With new buildings, malls, and homes being built across the city, the demand for technical and maintenance services is also on the rise. Services like plumbing, electrical work, AC installation, and painting are needed every day to keep the city running smoothly. Many Indian professionals and entrepreneurs are playing a big role in meeting this demand, especially as Indians make up a large part of the population and workforce in Dubai.

To start such a business legally in Dubai, you need a Technical Services License. This license allows you to offer services like electrical fittings, plumbing, painting, AC installation, and other repair or maintenance work. It’s a must-have if you want to work legally, win contracts, and grow your business in the UAE.

What is a Technical Services License in Dubai?

A Technical Services License in Dubai is a type of commercial license that allows businesses to legally offer a wide range of maintenance, repair, and installation services across the emirate. This includes activities like plumbing, air conditioning installation and maintenance, electrical fitting, painting, carpentry, and more.

This license is ideal for professionals and companies that provide hands-on, technical, or manual services essential for construction, property maintenance, and day-to-day operations in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

The issuing authority for a technical services license in Dubai is the Department of Economic Development (DED) for businesses set up on the mainland. For free zone setups, the respective free zone authority grants the license.

Technical Services License Activities in Dubai

A Technical Services License in Dubai allows you to legally operate a wide range of hands-on, skill-based service activities, such as:

Plumbing and Sanitary Contracting, such as the Installation and maintenance of pipelines, water tanks, and bathroom fittings
Air Conditioning, Ventilation & Air Filtration Systems Installation and Maintenance
Electrical Fittings and Fixtures Services, such as wiring, lighting, circuit installations, etc.
Carpentry and Flooring Contracting, including wooden fixtures, cabinets, doors, and flooring
Painting Contracting, interior and exterior painting for buildings
Wall and Floor Tiling Works – Ceramic, marble, or granite tiling for walls and floors
Partitions and False Ceiling Contracting
Insulation Contracting – Thermal and sound insulation services
Electromechanical Equipment Installation and Maintenance
Packaging Services, such as industrial or commercial packaging for relocation and logistics
Concrete Works – Minor concrete construction or reinforcement jobs
Cleaning Services (Non-industrial)

Note: The specific activities allowed depend on what you choose during the license application. You can include multiple activities under a single license, subject to approval from the DED or respective free zone authority.

Mainland vs. Free Zone for Technical Services License in Dubai

When applying for a Technical Services License in Dubai, you can choose between setting up your business in the Mainland or a Free Zone.

Mainland Technical Services License

Issued by: Department of Economic Development (DED), Dubai Ideal for: Businesses that want to offer services anywhere in Dubai and across the UAE Key Features:

You can operate anywhere in the UAE, including dealing directly with local clients, government entities, and large private projects.
You can open your office or shop in any location within the Dubai mainland.
100% foreign ownership is allowed (as per the new UAE Commercial Companies Law reforms).
You can apply for unlimited visas, depending on your office space.
Easy access to tenders and government contracts.

Free Zone Technical Services License

Issued by: Respective Free Zone Authorities (e.g., IFZA, RAKEZ, Ajman Free Zone, Dubai South, DMCC, DAFZA, etc.) Ideal for: Businesses focusing on international clients or online service platforms Key Features:

Offers 100% foreign ownership without needing a local partner.
Usually includes tax benefits, customs exemptions, and fast-track company setup.
Office space may be flexible (shared desk, private office, or warehouse units).
Limited to operating within the Free Zone and outside the UAE unless you appoint a local distributor or agent.
Often more cost-effective for startups or solo professionals.

What are the Documents Required for a Technical Services License in Dubai?

To obtain a Technical Services License in Dubai, you need to submit a set of documents to the relevant authority, such as:

Passport copies of all shareholders and partners
Visa copy and Emirates ID (if you’re a UAE resident)
Passport-size photographs of the owners/directors (white background)
Trade name reservation certificate
Tenancy contract (Ejari) for your business location, especially for the Mainland
NOC from current sponsor (if already on a UAE visa)

How to Obtain a Technical Services License in Dubai, UAE?

Getting a Technical Services License in Dubai involves a few straightforward steps, which generally includes:

1. Choose Your Business Activity

Select the specific technical services you want to offer (e.g., plumbing, AC maintenance, electrical fitting). Make sure your chosen activities fall under the approved list from the DED or relevant free zone authority.

2. Decide on the Company Jurisdiction

Choose between Mainland (wider business freedom in the UAE) or a Free Zone (cost-effective and 100% foreign-owned). This affects your trade scope, office location, and licensing process.

3. Reserve a Trade Name

Propose 2-3 business names to register with the DED (Mainland) or the Free Zone. The name should be unique, appropriate, and meet UAE naming guidelines.

4. Prepare Legal Documents

Draft and sign the Memorandum of Association (MoA) (if required). You may also need to arrange the Local Service Agent Agreement (only for some professional licenses in the Mainland). Prepare the tenancy contract for your office/shop and get it registered with Ejari (Mainland only).

5. Submit Final Application

Submit all completed documents, including approvals, MoA, Ejari (if applicable), and application forms. Pay the license issuance fees, which generally start from AED 12,500* in the mainland.

6. Obtain External Approvals (If Applicable)

Depending on your activity, you may need additional approvals:

DEWA for electrical services,
Dubai Municipality for construction-related,
Dubai Civil Defense for fire/safety, etc.

7. Get Your Technical Services License

Once the documents are approved and the fee is paid, your Technical Services License in Dubai will be issued. You can now apply for residency visas, open a corporate bank account, and start operations. Pro Tip: The process may vary slightly depending on the business activity and whether you choose a free zone or the mainland. For a hassle-free experience, Shuraa India can manage the entire setup process on your behalf.

What is the Cost of a Technical Services License in Dubai?

Getting a technical services license in Dubai mainland typically costs between AED 15,000 to AED 30,000. This includes government license fees, trade name reservation, and legal documentation like MOA. You'll also need to rent an office (Ejari), which can cost anywhere from AED 3,000 to AED 20,000, depending on the size and location. In a free zone, packages are more flexible. The license and registration typically cost between AED 12,000 to AED 18,000, and shared desk or office space starts from AED 8,000. You can also include visa quotas in your package. Keep in mind, besides license fees, you’ll also need to budget for visa applications, medical tests, and Emirates ID. Want a cost estimate tailored to your business? Shuraa can help you with a free quote and the most affordable setup package based on your needs.

What are the Benefits of Getting a Dubai Technical Services License?

Getting a Technical Services License in Dubai opens up a wide range of business opportunities. Here are the key benefits:

1. High Demand in a Growing Market

Dubai's booming real estate and construction sectors have created constant demand for services like plumbing, electrical work, AC maintenance, and more. This ensures a steady flow of clients year-round.

2. Wide Range of Services Covered

A single license allows you to legally operate multiple technical activities, such as painting, carpentry, insulation, and HVAC installation, offering more ways to earn.

3. Visa Eligibility

With a Dubai technical license, you can sponsor residence visas for yourself, your family, and your employees, depending on your office size and business needs.

4. Corporate Bank Account Setup

A valid license allows you to open a business bank account in the UAE, which is essential for invoicing, contracts, and smooth operations.

5. You Can Start Small and Grow Steadily

You don’t need a big team or huge capital to start. Many technical service businesses begin with 1–2 skilled technicians, then scale up as client demand increases. It’s a practical route for electricians, plumbers, or HVAC experts looking to be their own boss.

The Easy Way with Shuraa India

Dubai is growing fast, and so is the need for skilled services like plumbing, AC work, electrical fitting, and more. If you’ve been thinking about starting a technical services business, now is the perfect time. There’s a big demand, and the opportunities are real. We know that setting up a business can feel complicated, but that’s where Shuraa India comes in. From helping you choose the right activities and preparing all the paperwork to getting your license, visa, office space, and even a business bank account, we take care of everything. With Shuraa India by your side, starting your business is simple and stress-free. Get in touch with us today and let’s turn your plan into a successful business in Dubai.