All businesses in Dubai must have a valid business license to operate legally and prove compliance with local regulations. Obtaining this license may seem expensive, but the benefits and opportunities you get after obtaining it make the investment worth it. Dubai offers a variety of company licenses depending on the activities you plan to carry out in the UAE. Each license typically covers ten activities, in addition to the general trading license, which gives companies the flexibility to engage in a variety of business activities. If you are planning to start your own company in Dubai, one of your first concerns will probably be the overall cost of obtaining a license. The truth is, there is no set price, as the fees depend on many factors – such as the range of licenses you need, the business structure you choose, and whether you decide to set up in the mainland or a free zone.