Hassle-Free Company Setup
Main Land Company Setup in
Abu Dhabhi Dubai Ras Al Khailma and other Emirates.
Quick, Compliant & Hassle-Free Company Formation in the UAE
Lightning-Fast Registration
UAE Trade License Included
Flexible Payment Plans
What is Mainland Company in UAE?
- A mainland company in Dubai is a business entity registered under the UAE’s Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Unlike free zones, mainland companies can do business anywhere in the UAE and internationally.
- Ideal for retail, services, trading, and industrial businesses.
Can Foreigners Own 100% of a Mainland Company in UAE?
- Yes, since 2021, the UAE allows 100% foreign ownership for most activities (except strategic sectors).
- No need for a local sponsor in most cases.
- Some activities still require a UAE national as a service agent or shareholder.
Documents Required to Setup a Mainland Company
- Passport copies of all shareholders
- Emirates ID (if any partner is a UAE resident)
- Trade name options (3 suggestions)
- Business activity selection
- Initial approval from DED
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Mainland Company in Dubai /UAE
Choose jurisdiction (Dubai Economy & Tourism [DED], Abu Dhabi DED, Sharjah DED)
Finalize business activity, legal structure, and company name
Reserve trade name and apply for initial approval
Sign Memorandum of Association (MOA) and lease office space
Submit license application with all documents
Pay government license fees and receive trade license
Apply for establishment card and employee visas (if required)
Key Features of Mainland Companies
Can operate anywhere within the UAE and internationally
Eligible for UAE residence visas for owners and staff
Can open offices, warehouses, and retail outlets across UAE
100% foreign ownership allowed in most activities (as per latest laws)
Can work with both government and private UAE clients
Where Can You Register a Mainland Company in UAE?
Dubai Economy (DED) – Most popular for diverse business activities and commercial access
Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development – Ideal for industrial and oil-related businesses
Sharjah DED – Cost-effective with access to Northern Emirates
Documents Required for Mainland Company Setup
Passport copy of shareholder(s) and manager(s)
Emirates ID and residence visa (if applicable)
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if required)
Tenancy contract and Ejari (Dubai office lease registration)
Initial approval, trade name certificate, and MOA
Business activity description and application form
Best Use Cases for Mainland Companies in Dubai/UAE
Retail stores and physical office-based businesses
Construction and real estate services
Import-export and logistics
Restaurants and food outlets
E-commerce and online platforms with local delivery
Consultancy and professional services
Offshore vs Free Zone vs Mainland – What’s the Difference?
Feature | Offshore | Free Zone | Mainland |
Market Access | International only | UAE Free Zone + International | Full UAE + International |
Ownership | 100% foreign | 100% foreign | 100% foreign (in most cases) |
Tax Benefits | 0% tax | 0–9% (above AED 375,000) | 0–9% (corporate tax applies) |
Visa Eligibility | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
Office Requirement | ❌ Not needed | ✅ Optional | ✅ Mandatory |
Confidentiality | ✅ High | Moderate | Moderate |
FAQs on Dubai Mainland Company Setup
What is the minimum capital required?
- Most businesses don’t require a paid-up capital (as per MOA only).
How long does it take to register a mainland company?
- Typically 5–7 working days after document submission.
Do I need a UAE national as a partner?
- For most activities, no. 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
Can I convert my free zone company to a mainland one?
- Yes, with proper documentation and deregistration from the free zone.
Is tax applicable to mainland companies?
- 9% corporate tax is applicable if profits exceed AED 375,000/year.
- 5% VAT applies to eligible businesses.
Why Choose Us for Mainland Company Setup in Dubai?
- End-to-end assistance: trade license, visas, bank account
- Transparent pricing, no hidden charges
- PRO support, legal guidance, and office setup
Do I Need a Physical Office to Open Mainland Company?
- Yes, a physical office is mandatory (minimum 200 sq. ft.)
- Virtual offices are not accepted for mainland licenses
- Office must have an Ejari (tenancy contract)
How Many Visas Can I Get with a Mainland Company?
- Based on office size:
- 200 sq. ft. allows approx. 1–2 visas
- Bigger space = more visas
- Can sponsor family & employees
- Investor visa valid for 2 years