Question

Hey, I'm trying to write a business letter, and I need to know if I need to include "Dear" in the salutation

Answer 1

You could add 'Respected Sir or Maam' instead of dear. Dear is more commonly used in informal letters.

Answer 2

Actually, "Dear" is commonly used in business letters.
http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/BusLetter_Block.html

Answer 3

Use 'Dear' if you are sending it to a specific person or group. Otherwise you can go with "To Whom It May Concern"

Answer 4

I would do my best to find out who would be recieving the letter, then include their name to show you'd go the extra mile to appear proffessional. :D
If not, then go with sir. :D