Dubai Unified Licence Cuts Business Bank Account Time

Dubai has taken a major leap in simplifying business operations with its Dubai Unified Licence (DUL) initiative, reducing the time required to open a business bank account by an astonishing 90%—from 65 days to just five.

Launched in 2023 by the Dubai Business Registration and Licensing Corporation (DBLC), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the DUL provides a single, government-verified digital identity to businesses across both mainland and free zones. In 2024, the Service Providers Project enhanced the system, enabling companies to access banking, utilities, trade, and labour services seamlessly through one platform.

Since the Service Providers Project rollout in October 2024, more than 3,000 new business bank accounts have been opened, and over 134,000 business banking profiles updated. The system integrates leading banks including Emirates Islamic Bank, Mashreq Bank, Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD), First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Emirates NBD, Emirates Development Bank (EDB), and Ruya Bank.

Beyond banking, DUL is expanding partnerships with key government and service entities such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), Dubai Trade, Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), and Arab Financial Services (AFS).

The initiative consolidates accurate business data in a secure digital registry, accelerating access to services, strengthening compliance, and increasing transparency. Over 900,000 DULs have been issued to date, highlighting Dubai’s ongoing push to create an investor-friendly, efficient, and globally competitive business environment.

With DUL, entrepreneurs, SMEs, and investors can now launch and expand businesses faster than ever, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading hub for trade, innovation, and economic growth.