Mainland Company Formation in Dubai, UAE

The UAE mainland opens a gate of unlimited business opportunities. Giving access to the local and international marketplaces without geographical boundaries, the companies can operate freely in an open environment.

Business Setup
Trade License
Tax Advisory
Corporate Bank Account
Compliance Management
Residence Visa Support
business setup in dubai mainland
Overview

What is Mainland Company?

mainland company formation in dubaii

A mainland company in the UAE is a business entity licensed by the respective emirate's Department of Economic Development. It permits businesses to operate freely inside the UAE and internationally, literally without any geographical borders. 

Unlike free zone companies, every mainland business may directly trade with the local market and participate in government contracts. These firms have to operate under the commercial law of the UAE, and in some activities, a local sponsor is required with at least 51% shareholding. 

Recent reforms, however, do permit 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, making mainland companies an attractive avenue for entrepreneurs in terms of flexibility and growth.

Types of Mainland Company Structures

Limited Liability Company
llc business setup in dubai mainland

This is a limited liability company (LLC), the most popular structure, allowing up to 50 shareholders. It offers liability protection limited to the shareholders' shares and provides flexibility and local market access.

Sole Establishment
sole establishment in dubai mainland

A sole proprietorship is fully owned by an individual, often used by professionals or entrepreneurs. The owner has personal responsibility for all debts.

Civil Company
civil company in dubai mainland

A civil company is a partnership of professionals, like consultants, doctors, or lawyers, focused on providing services and not governed by commercial law.

Branch of a Foreign Company
branch office in dubai mainalnd

Enables foreign companies to extend their business operation in the UAE without losing their legal entity in their home country.

Type of  Business Licenses Available in UAE Mainland

  • Commercial License
    For businesses engaged in trading activities, including retail, wholesale, and general trading.
  • Professional License
    For individuals or companies offering professional services, such as consulting, accounting, legal, or medical services. 
  • Industrial License
    For manufacturing and industrial activities, producing goods is required for factories and production units.
  • Tourism License
    For businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors, such as travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, and restaurants. 
  • E-commerce License
    For businesses that operate online, allowing them to conduct e-commerce activities legally.
  • Real Estate License
    For businesses involved in property management, real estate brokerage, and real estate development.
  • Construction License
    For companies engaged in construction activities, including contracting, engineering, and building services.
  • Educational License
    For institutions providing educational services, including schools, training centers, and vocational institutions. 
  • Health and Safety License
    For businesses in the healthcare sector, including clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies, ensuring they meet health and safety regulations.

Required  Documents for Business Setup in Dubai Mainland

Documents Required for Individual and Corporate Shareholders
Document Individual Shareholder Corporate Shareholder
Passport Copy Tick Tick
UAE Residence Visa (for UAE residents) Tick Tick
Emirates ID (for UAE residents) Tick Tick
Utility Bill or Tenancy Contract Tick Tick
Business Plan Tick Tick
No Objection Certificate (NOC) Tick
Bank Reference Letter Tick Tick
Memorandum of Association (MOA) Tick Tick
Articles of Association (AOA)
Power of Attorney (POA) Tick
Shareholder Resolution (for Corporate Shareholders) Tick
Curriculum Vitae (CV) Tick Tick
golden visa services in dubai

Dubai Mainland Business Setup Advantages

Full Foreign Ownership

 International businesses do not require a local Emirati sponsor to be a partner to operate, maintaining 100% ownership. Unless operating in certain strategic industries.

Unrestricted Operations

Operate all across the UAE as well as in other GCC countries.

Strategic Location

Easy access to neighboring and global markets by land, sea and air.

No Visa Quota

Unlike other business jurisdictions, there is no limit on the amount of visas issued by businesses.

Tax Exemptions

Tax exemption for personal income tax and tax relief of up to $100,000 for corporate tax, especially for SMEs.

Eligible for Government Contracts

Businesses can apply for UAE government contracts permitting work on government projects.

UAE Mainland Business Setup Process

General Timeline: 4 to 12 weeks

01  Determine Business Activity

Identify the type of business you want to establish and the corresponding license required.

Takes 1 to 2 days

02  Choose a Business Name

Select a unique trade name for your business and reserve it making sure it complies with the UAE regulations.

Takes 1 day

03   Initial Approval

Obtain initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the relevant emirate.

Takes 1 to 3 days

04 Drafting the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

Prepare the MOA, which outlines the business structure and ownership. This step may require assistance from a legal consultant.

Takes 2 to 5 days

05  Local Sponsor (if required)

Identify and finalize an agreement with a local sponsor (if needed) for businesses that require one.

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

06  Secure Office Space

Obtain a physical office space, which is mandatory for obtaining a trade license.

Takes 1 to 4 weeks

07  Apply for Trade License

Submit the necessary documents to the DED to obtain the final trade license.

Takes 1 to 3 days

08  Register with Relevant Authorities

Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to register with additional authorities (e.g., Dubai Health Authority for healthcare businesses).

Takes 1 to 4 weeks

09  Open a Corporate Bank Account

Choose a bank and open a corporate account to manage business finances.

Takes 1 to 2 weeks

10  Obtain Additional Permits (if necessary)

Apply for any special permits or licenses required for specific activities (e.g., food safety permits for restaurants).

Takes 1 to 3 weeks

Why Should you Choose Us

Expert Advice
Bespoke Solutions
Broad Experience
Post-Setup Support

RadiantBiz offers expert guidance and an individually tailored solution for developing your business in the UAE. We ensure a smooth process with our broad experience in setting up businesses. We also offer post-setup guidance. We accompany you on your entrepreneurial journey ensuring business success and growth through our expertise in every business department.

business setup consultancy

Empowering Your Business
through our Associations & Channel Partners in Dubai.

Ready to Set Up Your Business in Dubai? Contact Us Today to Explore the Best Zones and Get Expert Assistance!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mainland Company in Dubai?
How do I start a company in Mainland Dubai?
How long will it take to obtain our mainland license in UAE?
Can I Own 100% ownership in Dubai mainland?
Can i Change from freezone license to mainland business license in UAE?
Why do you need a local sponsor in the UAE?
How long does it take to set up a business in Dubai?
What are the documents required for company formation in the mainland?
What are the advantages of a mainland company formation in Dubai?

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