Launch Your Business in Dubai Mainland
Are you looking to grow your business in the UAE? The Dubai Mainland License allows you to do business in a native capacity throughout the UAE and internationally, broadening your customer base, as well as accessing local partnerships and tenders from the government.
What is a Dubai Mainland Company?
The Dubai Mainland Company is a legal entity that has been that is licensed from the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET), which allows you to be a part of all Emirates as well as internationally without limitations. If you're looking to target local markets or seeking to expand globally mainland licenses provide the most versatility, reliability as well as potential for growth.
Benefits of Dubai Mainland Setup
Discover why establishing a business the business in Dubai Mainland is the top option for startups, entrepreneurs and established businesses looking to expand across all of UAE as well as beyond.
Operate Without Limits
Trade freely throughout Dubai and other Emirates as well as Free Zones and global markets -without no restrictions on the location or type of client.
Access Government Contracts
You can become qualified to compete for semi-government and public sector tenders and give your business a an edge in competition and credibility.
Sponsor Unlimited Visas
You can easily scale your team. Companies from the mainland are able to sponsor unlimited visas for their employees according to the size of your office and its requirements.
Simplified Business Banking
Get greater access to the top banks in the UAE as well as international banking services with more streamlined documentation and trustworthiness.
Full Repatriation of Profits
There are no currency restrictions. Companies from mainland countries profit from 100 percent repatriation of capital and earnings into their country of origin.
Office Anywhere in UAE
You can choose your location of business without restriction You can choose your business location at any time -- there are no limitations on zone. allow you to operate from the most desirable areas in Dubai and beyond.
Business Activities Permitted
Dubai Mainland supports over 1,000+ business activities across all sectors
Dubai Mainland vs Free Zone vs Offshore
Assess the main differences to help you make the right choice for your business
| Feature | Mainland | Free Zone | Offshore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership in most industries | 100% foreign ownership | 100% foreign ownership |
| Market Access | Full access to the UAE market | Limited to the Free Zone or outside of the UAE | No access to the UAE market access |
| Office Requirement | Physical office required | Flexible options available | No office required |
| Visa Eligibility | Unlimited visas based on office space | Limited based on package | No visas |
| Setup Cost | AED 15,000+ | AED 10,000+ | AED 7,000+ |
| Annual Costs | AED 10,000+ | AED 5,000+ | AED 3,000+ |
| Banking | Easier access to local banks | Possible with limitations Challenging | Challenging |
| Taxation | 0% corporate tax (until June 2023) | 0% corporate tax | 0% taxation |
Legal & Compliance Obligations
Stay in good standing with Dubai mainland business regulatory requirements.
License Renewal
You need to renew with DET annually, usually 1-2 months before expiry. The following documents are required:
- Renewal application form
- Updated tenancy contract (Ejari)
- Shareholder passport copies
Audit Obligations
While not compulsory for everyone, we suggest:
- Annual financial statements
- Some bookkeeping records to reference
- VAT filing (if registered)
Office Space Requirements
Mainland companies must have a:
- Current Ejari (tenancy contract)
- Valid Ejari (tenancy contract)
- Minimum 100 sqft for LLCs
- Hot desk alternatives
Document Checklist
For company formation:
- Shareholder passport copies
- Visa (or entry stamp if you are in the UAE)
- Business plan or description of activity
- Documents required for initial approval.
Industry-Specific Solutions
Tailored mainland setup solutions for your industry
- Software development license
- E-commerce solutions
- Cloud service provider options
- Access to government innovation programs
- General trading license
- Import/export solutions
- Physical store setup assistance
- E-commerce components
- Consulting license
- Legal/accounting practice setup
- Freelancer packages
- Virtual office options
- Industrial license
- Warehouse options
- Customs clearance assistance
- Access to industrial zones
- DHA-approved site
- Import medical equipment
- Clinic setup assistance
- Healthcare professional licenses
- Food trading license
- Restaurant setup assistance
- Dubai Municipality approval
- Halal certification
Recognition & Partners
Trusted by thousands of businesses with official recognition
Banking & Financial Services
Efficient and Fast-Track Banking for Your Dubai Mainland Business
- Company trade license
- Shareholder passports
- Proof of address
- Bank reference letter
- Business plan (Only for some banks)
Initial Application
Submit documents and application form (1-2 days)
Due Diligence
The bank reviews your documents (3-7 days)
Account Opening
You receive account details and online banking login (1-2 days)
Business Environment in Dubai
Why Dubai is the best place in the Middle East to do business
GDP Growth (2023)
Outpacing global averages and diversified economy
FDI Destination in Middle East
Top destination for foreign investors in the region
Foreign Investment (2022)
Record inflows of capital across sectors
Business Set-up Success
Approval rate for applications that met compliance requirements
Growing Sectors
- Technology and AI
- Renewable Energy
- Healthcare
- E-commerce
Infrastructure
- World-class airports and ports
- 5G connectivity
- Smart City initiatives
- Business-friendly policies
Common Setup Mistakes
Beware of these mistakes when setting up the foundation of your Dubai mainland business
Choosing Wrong Business Structure
Many business owners choose to form an LLC for their business when a single establishment is sufficient and the reverse is true, resulting in excessive costs or restrictions.
Incomplete Documentation
Incorrectly or incompletely attested documents could delay the process by several weeks. Most common issues are unsigned MOAs or passports that have expired.
Non-Compliant Office Space
Virtual offices that don't conform to DET requirements or fail to sign up with Ejari could invalidate your Ejari licence.
Ignoring Visa Quotas
The underestimation of visa requirements for employees can lead to expensive office renovations later, to accommodate employees.
How We Prevent These Issues:
- FREE Structure Evaluation: We analyze your needs and recommend the most suitable business structure
- Document Checklist: Complete list that's tailored specifically to your particular application
- Compatible Office Solutions: Pre-approved spaces that satisfy all requirements
- Visa Planning:Plan your future needs to avoid costly adjustments
Interactive Tools
Estimate costs and visualize your setup process
Cost Estimator
Setup Timeline Tracker
Document Preparation
Gather all required documents and get them attested
Name Reservation
Submit and approve your company name
Office Setup
Secure office space and register Ejari
License Issuance
Receive your final business license
LLC vs Sole Establishment
Choose the Right Business Structure for Your Dubai Mainland Company
| Key Points |
LLCLimited Liability Company |
Sole EstablishmentProfessional License |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Structure |
2+ Shareholders
Up to 100% foreign ownership available |
Single Owner
100% owned by one individual |
| Liability Protection |
Limited to share capital |
Unlimited personal liability |
| Business Activities |
|
|
| Visa Eligibility |
Multiple employee visas Based on office space |
Limited visas Typically 1-2 visas |
| Best Suited For |
|
|
LLC
Limited Liability CompanyOwnership Structure
Up to 100% foreign ownership available
Liability Protection
Limited to share capital
Business Activities
- Commercial
- Industrial
- Service
Visa Eligibility
Multiple employee visas
Based on office spaceSole Establishment
Professional LicenseOwnership Structure
100% owned by one individual
Liability Protection
Unlimited personal liability
Business Activities
- Professional services
- No trading
- No manufacturing
Visa Eligibility
Limited visas
Typically 1-2 visasSetup Process & Timeline
Start getting your Dubai Mainland business running up in just a few simple step.
Business Consultation
Our experts in business look at your objectives, actions and the requirements for ownership to suggest the appropriate legally-arrangement and licensing route.
Name Reservation & Approval
We handle all paperwork with DET for your business name and initial approval
MOA & License Issuance
Drafting and notarization of MOA followed by final license issuance
Visa Processing
Application for investor and employee visas (if required)
Bank Account Opening
Assistance with corporate bank account setup at leading banks
Why Choose Our Services?
We make Dubai mainland business setup simple and hassle-free
Local Sponsorship
We provide reliable local service agents where required for 100% foreign ownership.
Fast Processing
Get your license in as little as 3-5 working days with our expedited services.
Cost-Effective
Competitive pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges.
Office Solutions
Flexible office options from virtual desks to full offices across Dubai.
Banking Assistance
Special relationships with leading UAE banks for easier account opening.
Ongoing Support
Dedicated account manager for all your post-setup requirements.
Ready to Start Your Dubai Mainland Business?
Our experts will guide you through every step of the setup process
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about Dubai mainland setup
Can I own 100% of my Mainland company?
Do I need a physical office for mainland license?
How many visas can I get with my mainland company?
The number of visas depends on your office size and business activity. As a general guideline:
- Shared desk (10-20 sqft): 1-2 visas
- Private office (100-200 sqft): 5-7 visas
- Larger offices: Unlimited visas based on space
We'll help you determine the optimal office size for your visa requirements.
What's the minimum capital requirement?
How long does the setup process take?
Can I change my business activity later?
What are the annual renewal requirements?
Annual renewal involves:
- License renewal with DET
- Tenancy contract renewal (Ejari)
- Visa renewals for employees
- Possible audit requirements depending on activity
We offer comprehensive renewal packages to handle all requirements.