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Business Setup in Dubai Mainland?

Dubai Mainland stands as a premier destination for global investors who wish to kick-start a new enterprise or scale up an existing one. Its strategic location and seamless connectivity to the world's major nations make it an ideal choice. Moreover, within the UAE, Dubai mainland holds a popular spot for establishing a business. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, prioritizing a business setup in Dubai Mainland is a smart move. Here, you get to enjoy a flexible legal system, designed in alignment with the UAE government's policies.

Dubai mainland represents one of the most advanced economies, providing all the necessary resources for seamless business operations. However, before you kickstart your Mainland Company setup in Dubai, you'll need a license. You can secure this from Dubai's Department of Economic Development (DED).

Setup Business in Dubai Mainland?

Submitting the right documents is essential to ensure that you get your business setup license for setting up in the mainland. Here is the list of documents needed.

  • Application for license 
  • LLC Agreement (attested)
  • Government forms (if needed)
  • Trade name reservation 
  • Initial approvals
  • External department approvals
  • Tenancy agreement
  • EJARI Registration certificate
  • Copy of NOC for partners
  • Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry Registration

Advantages of Starting a Mainland Company in Dubai:

Get the benefits of owning a mainland business license in Dubai. A top advantage of starting a mainland company in the UAE is the permission for complete foreign ownership. Simply put, individuals or businesses from outside the UAE can wholly own and manage the company, eliminating the need for a local sponsor or partner.

100% Ownership

HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has lately permitted 100% foreign ownership of mainland UAE companies.

Strategic Location

With mainland license business investors can enter other GCC nations, this advantage will help in the growth of business.

Easy Import & Export

Easy access to neighbouring and global markets by land, sea and air to help with the business

No Limit on Visa

Unlike other activities, there is no limit on visa applications for business owners in Dubai Mainland.

Tax exemptions

100% tax exemption on personal or corporate income or gains.100% repatriation of capital and profits.

Eligibility for UAE Govt. Contracts

Companies with mainland licenses can apply for UAE government contracts & can work on Government projects.

Steps to setup New Business in Dubai Mainland

We have years of experience in trade consulting and setting up 100% foreign-owned companies of various shapes, sizes and structures in the mainland UAE. In addition to this wealth of experience, we offer specialized expertise in various aspects of local mainland company formation. Our professional team, including lawyers, certified public accountants, and consultants, works hard and pursues perfection on every path to success. If you are interested in setting up a company in mainland Dubai, please contact us.

This combination of experience and expertise gives you complete peace of mind and great confidence when setting up an LLC business in the UAE. Hundreds of individuals and organizations around the world rely on us to obtain new business licenses, lease office space, obtain legal residency, and begin successful new lives in this country. You are invited to join their distinguished procession.

Forming an LLC company in mainland UAE is a systematic process of timely steps that are largely interconnected. Understanding the basics gives you a clear picture of the big picture.

Simply put, if you want to start and run your business successfully in the mainland UAE, we can be your perfect partner. We are here to help you with all your questions and concerns. From startup to success, join us.

Select Business Activity for Mainland Company

Choosing a Business Activity Our team, as mainland Dubai company formation experts, can advise you on a specific business activity or a range of business activities that can meet both your current needs and future plans. We will guide you to the best jurisdiction for your chosen activity and suggest cost-effective options to suit your budget.

Finalise Company Structure

Obtaining a professional license in mainland Dubai has never been easier. We also offer package deals for startups anywhere in the UAE, including Commercial Trade License / Consulting License / E-Commerce License / Real Estate / Manufacturing License in Dubai.

Finalizing Your Company Structure The most common way to set up a business in the UAE mainland is through a limited liability company (LLC), but there are other options.

Our lawyers and expert management consultants perform due diligence, due diligence and corporate structuring/restructuring to help you set up your ideal company in mainland UAE:

  • Sole Proprietor
  • Civil Law Firm
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)
  • Private Limited Company (PLC)
  • Joint Stock Company (PJSC)
  • Branches, Regional Headquarters, and Representative Offices of Foreign Companies
  • Single Family Office

Simply put, we help you find the best business activities and structure to fit your business goals and budget. We provide professional support from start to finish, so join us for a successful business.

Register Trade Name for your Dubai Mainland Business

The new business name should reflect the activities chosen and must be approved by authorities before formal use. Approval is only possible if the business name is already in use by someone else or has not been previously registered. Additionally, the business name must not harm public morals or public order in the UAE.

You can check the availability of each name on the Department of Economic Development (DED) website for each emirate. However, Fujairah can be checked on the Rukhsati app. Licensed business names can also be found in the UAE Ministry of Economy's Unified Commercial Registration System and the National Economic Register.

Alternatively, you can list a business name that reflects the nature of your business, and our team will check its availability and secure your registration. If approved, the name will be followed by the abbreviation for your legal structure. For example, LLC, PLC, or PJSC.

Simply put, when choosing a name for your business, you need to make sure that the name is not already in use or registered by someone, and that it does not offend public morals or order in the UAE. This process may seem complicated, but don't worry. Our team will check if your business name is available and assist you with all necessary steps. This will help you get your business started legally and safely.

Confirm Workspace in Dubai Mainland

Setting up your business in the UAE's mainland offers plenty of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Let's take a look at your options:

  • 1. Virtual Office:
  • Need a professional business address but don't require a physical space? A virtual office is perfect for you. It gives you an address without the actual office, great for establishing your presence.

  • 2. Leased Office:
  • Want a physical workspace without the commitment of ownership? Leasing an office is the way to go. You can customize the space as you like and enjoy flexibility.

  • 3. Fully Owned Office:
  • Prefer complete control over your workspace? Purchasing a fully owned office gives you just that. You'll have stability and freedom to design the space according to your taste.

  • 4. Office Building:
  • Office buildings offer a variety of office spaces within one complex. They're ideal for those seeking a centralized location with shared amenities.

  • 5. Workshop:
  • If your business involves hands-on work or manufacturing, a workshop space is essential. It provides ample room for your operations and equipment.

  • 6. Warehouse:
  • For businesses needing storage or distribution facilities, a warehouse space is crucial. It offers plenty of storage capacity and logistical support.

    Comply with Labour Rules

    If you feel intimidated by the process of applying for a visa yourself, our immigration team will take care of everything for you. Open official government files, process establishment cards and apply for the required number of work and/or residence visas for staff and family members. The process also includes verification, translation and certification of various documents.

    The visa application process can be complicated and time consuming. But don't worry. Our professional immigration team will take care of every step of the process. From official procedures with the government to processing all necessary documents, we take care of everything for you.

    Additionally, if you need document verification, translation, and certification, we can handle this accurately and quickly. All these services are provided in one place, so you don't have to worry about complicated procedures.

    By using our services, you will experience for yourself how simple and convenient the visa application process can be. We are ready to help you with everything you need during the immigration process, so please contact us at any time. Making your life more convenient is our promise to you.

    Open Bank Account for our Mainland Company

    If you are a Dubai mainland licensed business, opening a corporate account is essential. This is because, legally, personal funds and company funds must be managed separately.

    The UAE offers many options. From world-renowned international banks, to long-established local banks, to digital-only banks. Each offers unique advantages to entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses and large foreign companies.

    Our team is ready to provide expert knowledge to help you make the right decision and complete the necessary documentation.

    With so many different banks out there, deciding which one to choose can be difficult. But don't worry. We'll help you choose the best bank for your business. We will also prepare all necessary documents.

    If you want to run a business in the UAE, opening a corporate account is an important first step. If you want to make this process simple and efficient, leave it to our professional team. We are ready to support you every step of the way to help your business become successful.

    If you have any further questions about opening a corporate account, please feel free to contact us. Our goal is to help your business thrive.

    Pre-Requisites for Mainland Company Formation:

  • Select your business activity:
  • Define your business activity precisely. This is sashimi
  • Legal Structure:
  • Choose the right legal structure for your business. in options
  • Local Sponsorship:
  • Most business activities require local sponsorship.
  • Business Name Approval:
  • Choose a unique and relevant business name.
  • Business plan:
  • Company goals, target market, financial projections, and business plan.
  • Physical address:
  • Obtain a physical address for your business operations. This is a prize
  • Initial capital:
  • A certain level of capital investment depending on business activities and structure this

    Important points to remember while setting up business in Dubai mainland

    There are various things that a person should keep in mind while they are opting for their Business setup in Dubai mainland. Since the company decides the future of your business and even yours in the emirates, keeping in mind a few factors would be beneficial.

    • The law issued by the UAE cabinet now permits 100% foreign ownership of the onshore companies located on the UAE mainland.
    • Now any joint stock business can sell 70% of its shares in an IPO (Initial Public Offering). This was 30% earlier.
    • Shareholders now have the right to take legal action in the court if the enterprise participates in an activity that causes the company to lose money.
    • All the company meetings are now no longer necessary to be officiated by an Emirati. Hence it is open to all expatriates.
    • The annual general meetings can now include a new way of voting, i.e. the electronic voting.
    • If leading officers or company chairpersons abuse their power, they can be removed from their positions.
    • Building a favorable legal environment for business establishment in the UAE , so that it may aid in the ease of doing business and the overall economy of the country
    • The UAE aims to put a positive spin on its already established appeal as a global market for foreign investment firms, businesses, startups from around the world by eliminating the existing obstacles and widening the economy.
    • Making sure that the future of the economy is safe and secure by increasing investment and commercial opportunities for foreign investors.
    • Meeting the demands of the UAE business community as they uplift the country’s appeal to expat investors, businesses, startups, and other entities.

    Types of company formation Dubai mainland?

    Selecting the legal form your company can be challenging and demanding. Owning the sole proprietorship is a necessity that can help the business setup in the long run.

    1. Sole proprietorship: Only one individual may own a sole proprietorship. When it comes to the business, the owner has all control and ownership. Any person of any nationality may own a sole proprietorship of any professional kind; however, only UAE or GCC citizens may own a sole proprietorship of any industrial or commercial sort.
    2. General Partnership: A general partnership is formed when two or more UAE citizens come together and assume joint responsibility for the partnership’s debts. Transferring a partnership stake requires the consent of all partners.
    3. Limited  Liability Company: Up to 50 shareholders may be part of a limited liability company (LLC). Besides this, each shareholder is accountable for their respective firm shares. Following death, the shares are given to the heir. They have to choose 1–5 managers.
    4. Representative Office: Branch offices share the same name as their parent company and are affiliated with it. The representative office is not the same as a branch office. Foreign businesses can establish representative offices in the UAE to spread the word about their products, but they are not allowed to conduct business here.
    5. Public Joint Stock Company: Those involved in banking, insurance, or financial activities are considered public joint stock firms. They are suitable for significant operations or projects. The public must have access to at least 25% of the shares. A board of directors with a term limit of three years should be in charge of managing the organization, and a minimum of ten founding members are necessary.
    6. Private Shareholding Company: Any type of business or sector may incorporate a private shareholding company. It must have at least three GCC or UAE citizens present in order to form. Two years or more after their formation, they may go public. 

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      Your Mainland Business Setup Guide for Success in Dubai

      Let's ensure your startup journey is smooth and successful with this Mainland Business Setup comprehensive checklist.:

      01

      Define Your Business Activity: Before diving into the setup process, determine the industry in which your company will operate. The Department of Economic Development (DED) offers a list of over 2000 permitted business activities, spanning trading, agriculture, hospitality, and manufacturing. Unlike free zone businesses, mainland enterprises enjoy the freedom to engage in any DED-listed activity.

      02

      Choose the Ideal Location: Selecting the right location is crucial. Mainland businesses face no restrictions on where they can establish, offering flexibility based on your budget and business activity. Proximity to major ports like Jebel Ali, Mina Zayed, or Mina Khalid is beneficial for import-export businesses. Additionally, the ease of opening branch offices enhances the potential for a robust local presence.

      03

      Determine Your Legal Structure: Various legal structures are available for foreign entrepreneurs in the UAE mainland. A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is common, particularly for commercial or industrial activities, necessitating a local sponsor. Professional service companies, however, can be 100% foreign-owned without a local sponsor.

      04

      Obtain Local Sponsor or Service Agent: For commercial or industrial activities, a local sponsor owning 51% of the business is required. RadiantBiz offers a Corporate Nominee option to maintain operational control and mitigate risks. Professional service companies only need a local service agent (LSA) for administrative dealings without ownership involvement.

      05

      Choose a Company Name: Selecting a company trade name is a critical decision. Ensure it aligns with your brand and professional values, adhering to UAE guidelines, such as avoiding offensive language or religious references. Full personal names are the only acceptable inclusion in trade names.

      06

      Apply for a Mainland Trade License: Initiate the process by applying for a mainland trade license with the Department of Economic Development. Required documents include a license application, memorandum of sponsor arrangements, ownership percentage, and shareholder visas.

      07

      Secure Your Office Space: After obtaining the trading license, secure an office space suiting your needs. Serviced offices provide immediate setup with essential amenities, while 'shell and core' spaces may require fit-out. Consider pre-fitted offices for a middle-ground solution.

      08

      Apply for Relevant Visas: Align visa applications with office space requirements, typically 100 sq. ft. per visa. As a mainland business owner, sponsoring visas for dependents is possible. Additionally, an investment visa is available, allowing you and your family to reside and work in the UAE for up to three years.

      09

      Partner with a Company Setup Consultant: Navigating the legal and formation process can be complex. Collaborate with UAE-based business setup consultants to streamline the process, gain insights, and confidently launch your successful business on the Dubai mainland.

      Dubai Mainland Business License: What You Need to Know

      Thanks to recent changes made by the UAE government, it's now possible for budding businesses to have complete ownership in Dubai Mainland. So, whether you're a local or a foreigner, you can fully own a mainland business in Dubai.

      As per new law, no foreigners are required a local emirati to form their company under mainland license.

      Now any joint stock business can sell 70% of its shares in an IPO (Initial Public Offering). This was 30% earlier.

      Shareholders now have the right to take legal action if the enterprise participates in an activity that causes the company to lose money.

      All the company meetings are now no longer necessary to be officiated by an Emirati. Hence it is open to all expatriates.

      The annual general meetings can now include a new way of voting, i.e. the electronic voting (due to the pandemic).

      If leading officers or company chairpersons abuse their power, they can be removed from their positions.

      Frequently Asked Questions
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