Business Setup In Mainland
Business setup in Dubai Mainland empowers investors to have complete control over their enterprises. Securing a Dubai mainland company license through the Department of Economic Development (DED) and UAE Ministry of Economy unlocks 100% foreign ownership, profit repatriation, and government contract eligibility with DHA and KHDA. Unlike free-zone entities, a mainland company formation in dubai allows unrestricted trade across the UAE and international markets. Transparent regulations and streamlined DED approval processes make incorporation efficient. Key entities like the Dubai Chamber and FTA reinforce trust. Optimize your venture with PRO services, Ejari tenancy contracts, and trade name reservations.
How to Setup a Company In Mainland?
Here are the key steps for business setup in dubai.
Key Benefits of Business Setup Dubai Mainland
1
100% Ownership
Gain complete control of your company under the UAE Commercial Companies Law. The updated regulations allow for 100% foreign ownership in most mainland business activities without needing a local sponsor. This structure supports robust business autonomy and decision-making, making it ideal for international entrepreneurs.
2
Flexible Office Locations
Choose any Dubai zone for your office setup, such as, Deira, JLT, to suit your operational needs. Register your tenancy contract through Ejari registration to secure investor visas. This flexibility enhances your business presence and accessibility in prime commercial areas.
3
Wider Market Reach
Operate your business across the UAE and internationally without restrictions typically associated with free zones. Sell goods and services globally, leveraging the mainland’s unrestricted access to local and foreign markets.
4
Government Contracts
Mainland companies can tender for lucrative DED, DHA, KHDA, and Dubai Municipality projects. Access to these contracts can significantly enhance revenue opportunities and market credibility. SParticipating in public sector tenders can secure your company’s financial growth.
Business Activities for Mainland Company Formation in Dubai
Types of legal forms in Dubai Mainland
Limited liability Company for single owners
Civil partnership company
Limited Liability Company
Branch setup
Represntative office
Essential Documents for Business Setup In Mainland
Establishing a mainland company formation in dubai involves adhering to specific legal procedures, including preparing the necessary documentation. Below is a comprehensive list of the essential documents required:
Passport Copies
A clear copy of the passport is mandatory for all business registration activities in mainland Dubai. It serves as a primary identification document and is essential for company incorporation, license issuance, and legal verification.
Why Passport Copies are Important:
- Identity Verification: Confirms the identity of the business owner and stakeholders.
- Legal Compliance: Necessary for obtaining the trade license and company registration.
- Visa Applications: Integral for processing residence permits associated with the business.
Visa Copy for Business Setup in Mainland Dubai
To establish a mainland company in Dubai, you must present specific visa documents based on your business activity and visa status. Each type of visa has distinct requirements, which are outlined below:
- UAE Residence Visa: For this visa type, an NOC (No Objection Certificate) is required from the current holder.
- Tourist Visa:A copy of the visit visa is necessary for company registration.
- Cancel Visa:Provide a copy of the cancelled visa as proof of previous residency.
- On Arrival Visa:Typically required for British nationals and those from the USA, UK, and other eligible countries. Submit a copy of the on-arrival visa.
- Golden Visa:No NOC is required. Only a copy of the Golden Visa is needed.
Additional Documents for Mainland Company Formation
- Business Plan: A business plan is not mandatory for all activities but is required for specific sectors regulated by authorities such as the Ministry of Health and KHDA (Dubai Health Authority), especially when setting up a pharmacy, educational institute, or related business.
- Additional Documents:
Certain business activities may also require the following:
- Military Trade: Good Standing Certificate and Education Certificate
- Education Institute Setup: Resume and Education Certificate
- Chemical Activity: Goods Standard Certificate and Personal Profile
- Sports Academy Setup: Resume and Personal Profile
Proposed Company Name for Mainland Business Setup
- A unique company name is mandatory according to government regulations.
- The proposed name must be checked for availability and approved by relevant authorities.
Cost of Business Setup In Mainland
The cost of business setup in Dubai Mainland typically ranges from AED 12,000* to AED 45,000*. This cost varies depending on factors such as the type of business activities, office space requirements, number of visas, and other legal considerations.
Business Setup In Mainland Services include:
PRO Services in Mainland
DED PRO assists in a streamlined business setup, including ICA document attestation, visa stamping, and government liaison. Efficient handling of DED e-services ensures quick approvals and compliance with UAE regulations.
Trade License in Mainland
Apply for your mainland trade licence through the DED portal, ensuring your business activity aligns with the NAICS classification as mandated by the UAE Ministry of Economy. Comprehensive guidance for choosing the appropriate licence type (commercial, professional, or industrial).
Trade License Issuance in Mainland
Our experts assist in obtaining the official DED trade licence, handling documentation and compliance, including business activity verification, licence fee calculation, and processing through DED e-services.
Legal Documentation in Mainland
Draft the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA), ensuring adherence to the UAE Commercial Companies Law. Secure notarization, shareholder agreements, and legal compliance with DED requirements for company formation.
License Renewal in Mainland
Annual DED licence renewal, activity amendments, and Ejari lease registration are required to maintain the investor visa quota. Ensures uninterrupted business operations by complying with UAE Commercial Companies Law.
Bank Account Opening in Mainland
Corporate bank account setup with leading UAE banks like Emirates NBD, ADCB, and Mashreq. Assistance with AML/KYC compliance to meet UAE banking regulations.
Corporate Tax Registration in Mainland
Register with FTA for UAE Corporate Tax compliance, CIT filings, and Ministry of Finance reporting. Ensure proper documentation and adherence to the new corporate tax regime.
VAT Registration in Mainland
FTA-compliant VAT registration, invoicing setup, and quarterly VAT return filing. Support for maintaining accurate financial records and meeting statutory obligations.
License Liquidation in Mainland
DED deregistration, debt settlement, clearance certificates, and ICA approvals for orderly company dissolution. Complete compliance with UAE company closure protocols.
Accounting & Bookkeeping in Mainland
IFRS-compliant financial statements, VAT return preparation, audit-ready documentation, and FTA liaison for maintaining financial accuracy and compliance. Ensures businesses meet the UAE’s tax and financial reporting standards.
Frequently Asked Questions about Business Setup In Mainland
Start by selecting a DED-approved activity (wholesale, IT services, FB) and choosing your legal structure under the UAE Commercial Companies Law. Reserve your trade name via the DED portal, then submit your trade license application with a notarized Memorandum of Association (MOA), ICA-attested passport/visa copies, and Ejari tenancy contract. Once the Dubai mainland trade licence is issued, finalize PRO services to handle visa stamping and government liaison.
Mainland business setup owners can opt for an LLC (Limited Liability Company)Sole Establishment, Civil Company, or Branch Office. Each falls under the Department of Economic Development (DED) and has distinct shareholding, liability, and VAT registration requirements with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
Under the recent UAE Commercial Companies Law, you can obtain 100% foreign ownership in most mainland activities—no local sponsor required. However, certain professional licences may still mandate a local service agent to comply with DED regulations.
Typical turnaround is 5–10 working days if all documents (MOA, Ejari lease, ICA-attested passport/visa copies) are ready. Complex activities regulated by DHA or KHDA (health, education) may extend processing by an additional 3–5 days.
Visa quota depends on your Ejari-registered office space:
- Flexi-desk: 1–3 visas
- Small office: 3–5 visas
- Commercial showroom: 5+ visas Additional visas require higher office square footage, per DED and ICA guidelines.
Yes—an Ejari tenancy contract is required for visa quotas and licence activation. You can choose a flexi-desk, private office, or commercial showroom in any approved Dubai zone (Business Bay, Deira, or JLT).
- ICA-attested passport copies
- Valid residence visa/entry permit copies
- Detailed business plan (for DHA/KHDA-regulated activities)
- Goods Standard & Good Standing certificates (if applicable)
- DED trade name approval certificate
- Notarized MOA and Ejari contract for visa registration
Yes, a Dubai mainland company can trade internationally outside the UAE. Mainland companies, registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED), are permitted to engage in import and export activities, as well as conduct business with international markets, provided they comply with UAE regulations and obtain any necessary licenses or permits for specific goods or services. For certain industries, additional approvals from relevant authorities may be required, and compliance with international trade laws, customs regulations, and tax obligations in both the UAE and the destination country is essential. Consulting with a legal or business setup expert in Dubai is advisable to ensure all requirements are met.
