Why Consider a Mainland Business Setup in Dubai?

Setting up a mainland business in Dubai offers unmatched flexibility and access to one of the most thriving economies in the Middle East. Unlike free zone setups, mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the UAE and trade directly with the local market without restrictions. With 100% foreign ownership now possible in most sectors, Dubai mainland setup has become an attractive route for global entrepreneurs and investors.

Key Advantages of a Dubai Mainland Company

• 100% Ownership in Most Sectors

• No Currency Restrictions

• No Limit on Business Activities

• Ability to Work with Government Contracts

• No Cap on Employee Visas

• Physical Office Requirement (adds credibility)

Dubai mainland companies can also open corporate bank accounts easily, apply for unlimited visas (depending on office size), and participate in tenders from public and private sectors.

Legal Structure Options for Mainland Businesses

When setting up a business in mainland Dubai, you can choose from several legal structures:

1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)

2. Sole Proprietorship

3. Civil Company

4. Branch of a Foreign Company

5. Private/Public Shareholding Company

The LLC structure is the most common for SMEs, especially for commercial and industrial activities.

Steps to Start a Mainland Business in Dubai

1. Define Business Activity

Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) allows over 2,000 licensed activities. Choosing the right one is crucial as it determines your licensing, office size, and legal structure.

2. Choose a Legal Structure

Whether you need an LLC or a professional license, your chosen activity will influence this.

3. Register Trade Name

Your business name must be unique, compliant with naming rules, and registered with the DED.

4. Get Initial Approval

This indicates that the UAE government has no objection to your business model. It’s essential before proceeding to documentation.

5. Prepare and Notarize MOA

The Memorandum of Association defines the responsibilities and ownership structure. Notarization is done through Dubai’s legal offices.

6. Secure a Business Location

You must lease a physical office space. Ejari (tenancy contract registration) is mandatory for license issuance.

7. Final License Issuance

Once all documents are submitted and verified, the DED will issue your mainland trade license.

Cost of Mainland Business Setup in Dubai

The cost for a mainland license varies based on your activity, legal structure, visa requirements, and office space. Typical setup costs include:

• Trade License: AED 10,000 – AED 15,000

• MOA Drafting & Notarization: AED 1,500 – AED 3,000

• Office Rent (Ejari): AED 10,000+ annually (varies by location)

• Initial Approval & Name Reservation: AED 1,000 – AED 3,000

• Sponsorship or LSA (if required): AED 8,000 – AED 12,000 annually

Pro Tip: Partnering with a local business consultant can help reduce hidden costs and speed up the process.

100% Foreign Ownership: The Game Changer

As of 2021, the UAE allows 100% foreign ownership of onshore companies in many sectors, eliminating the need for a local Emirati partner in commercial activities. This has significantly simplified the mainland business setup in Dubai, particularly for global startups and tech companies.

Required Documents

To establish a mainland company, you’ll typically need:

• Passport copies of shareholders

• Entry stamp or visa copy

• Proposed trade name

• Business activity details

• Tenancy contract (Ejari)

• MOA and LSA agreement (if applicable)

Visa and Immigration Process

After license issuance, you can apply for investor and employee visas:

1. Establishment Card

2. Entry Permit

3. Status Adjustment

4. Medical Test & Emirates ID

5. Visa Stamping

Mainland companies are not limited in the number of visas they can obtain—this is often based on office size.

Best Locations for Mainland Offices in Dubai

• Business Bay

• Sheikh Zayed Road

• Deira

• Al Quoz

• Al Barsha

• Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)

Choosing the right location can influence your brand visibility and operational efficiency.

Industries Ideal for Mainland Setup

• Retail & Trading

• Hospitality

• Construction

• Logistics

• Consulting & Advisory

• Healthcare

• Manufacturing

• Real Estate

Mainland Dubai offers the freedom to cater to the local market, unlike free zone companies which are often restricted in this area.

Final Thoughts

Opting for a mainland business setup in Dubai is ideal for entrepreneurs who want full market access, no operational restrictions, and the flexibility to expand across the UAE. With recent reforms supporting foreign ownership, the mainland route is more appealing than ever. Whether you’re starting a retail shop, an IT consultancy, or a construction firm, Dubai’s mainland offers the infrastructure, global reputation, and economic climate to thrive.