| Limited Liability Company (LLC) |
The most common business structure in the UAE Mainland, can have 1–50 shareholders. Offers limited liability protection and flexibility across most commercial activities. |
Commercial License, Industrial License, Professional License |
| Sole Establishment |
Owned by a single individual who bears full financial responsibility. Suitable for small businesses and professional services. |
Professional License |
| Civil Company |
Formed by two or more professionals (e.g., doctors, engineers, consultants) to offer specialized services. 100% foreign ownership is allowed for most activities. |
Professional License |
| Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC) |
Suitable for large-scale businesses seeking to raise capital through public share offerings. Requires at least 5 founders and 30% of shares to be offered to the public. |
Commercial License, Industrial License |
| Private Joint Stock Company (PrJSC) |
Similar to PJSC, but shares are not offered to the public. Requires a minimum of 2 shareholders and AED 5 million in capital. |
Commercial License, Industrial License |
| Branch of a Foreign Company |
Allows an international company to establish a legal presence in the UAE Mainland and operate under its parent company’s name. |
Commercial License, Professional License |
| Representative Office |
Serves as a marketing or liaison office for a foreign parent company; cannot conduct commercial activities or earn revenue in the UAE. |
Representative Office License |
| Holding Company |
Formed to own and manage subsidiaries, assets, or investments in other companies within or outside the UAE. |
Commercial License |