About Mainland
A mainland company in Dubai is a business entity that can operate within the local market and beyond, without restrictions on trade or location. Setting up a mainland company in Dubai offers unparalleled business opportunities and market access.
Our expert team ensures a smooth process, handling everything from legal requirements to paperwork with precision. Enjoy the benefits of full operational freedom, strategic location, and a thriving economy.
Let us simplify your mainland company setup, so you can focus on your business growth.
License Types and Activities
Mainland company formation in Dubai allows for over 3,000 listed business activities in the UAE. The chosen business activity, company setup, and area of operation will determine the necessary license and other requirements.
Commercial License
Allows companies to engage in trading activities within the UAE.
- Trading of goods and products
- Import and export activities
- Sales and distribution
- General and specialized trading
- Retail and wholesale businesses
Industrial License
Allows companies to engage in industrial activities within the UAE.
- Production and manufacturing of goods
- Industrial assembling and processing
- Factory and plant operations
- Packaging and repackaging activities
- Industrial research and development
Professional License
Authorizes professionals to offer specialized services within the UAE.
- Legal, medical, or consultancy services
- Practice their expertise legally
- Required for freelancers & consultants
- To support service-based startups
- Require relevant qualifications
Steps to
Establish Your Mainland
Company in the UAE
The process of establishing a company in the UAE involves only a few simple steps, in all seven emirates. Establishing a company typically involves identifying the location, specifying the nature of business and paying ascribed fees, for the issuance of a commercial license.
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Identify the Nature of Your Business Activity
The UAE offers 6 main types of economic licenses Occupational, Tourism, Industrial, Commercial, Agriculture, Professional.
Economic licenses can include several economic activities. The nature of the company’s activity determines the type of license that will be issued.
Determine Your Company’s Legal Structure
A business structure is primarily based on the needs of the business and will determine the laws and regulations the company must adhere to.
Register the Trade Name
The trade name is the name of the company, which must be unique and not be similar to the name of any other registered company.
Apply for Initial Approval
An initial approval is the UAE Government’s 'no objection' towards a particular business being established in the country. This approval also allows the investor to proceed with the next steps to set up a business and for the authorities to issue the license. It does not, however, grant the investor permission to run the business or practice the business activity.
Create LSA or MOA
A Memorandum of Association (MOA) is required if the legal form of the company is a civil company, limited liability company, public shareholding company, or private shareholding company. A local service agent agreement (LSA) is required if it is a sole proprietorship.
Choose Your Business Location
All businesses in the UAE must have a physical address to operate from. The company premises and location must comply with requirements specified by the emirate’s Department of Economic Development, as well as zoning policies and regulations of local municipalities or other competent authorities.
Apply for Additional Government Approvals
In some cases, additional approvals from government entities governing certain business activities are required.
Submit Required Documents
Receipt of initial approval and copies of all previously submitted documents, Copy of lease contract, duly attested, Memorandum/s of Association, as required, Approvals from other government entities, as required
Pay Fees and Collect License
Pay fees and secure company license.
Benefits of Registering Company in Dubai
Registration of the company must be in the same emirate where it has been incorporated.
Benefits of Registering Company in Dubai
- 100% operational freedom
- Access to the entire UAE market
- No currency restrictions
- Ability to trade directly with local and international markets
- Strategic geographic location
- No limits on the number of visas
- No minimum capital requirement
- Ease of establishing multiple branches
- Eligibility to bid on government projects
- Comprehensive business support services
