MAINLAND COMPANY FORMATION IN DUBAI
Thinking about starting a company in Dubai? A Mainland license gives you the freedom to trade across the UAE and globally with access to over 3,000 business activities. Enjoy full flexibility, credibility, and growth opportunities when you choose Mainland company formation.
Mainland Company Registration in Dubai
Setting up a Mainland company in Dubai is one of the smartest decisions for entrepreneurs seeking full access to the UAE market and international trade opportunities. Backed by a strong economy, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly regulations, Dubai continues to attract global businesses across every sector.
Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding your existing operations, a Mainland business license gives you the freedom to trade anywhere in the UAE and abroad, with access to thousands of approved business activities.
With the right guidance, the process can be straightforward. At Gulf Corporate Services, we simplify your Mainland company registration in Dubai by handling approvals, paperwork, and government liaison, so you can focus on growing your business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Why Choose Mainland Company Setup in Dubai?
Setting up a Mainland company in Dubai is the ideal choice for entrepreneurs who want long-term growth, credibility, and the flexibility to scale. Unlike free zones, Mainland companies are not limited by location or activity restrictions, making them a preferred option for investors targeting the UAE’s booming economy.
Unrestricted Business Opportunities
A Mainland license allows you to operate anywhere in Dubai, across the UAE, and even internationally, giving your business maximum reach.
Diverse Business Activities
The Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) offers hundreds of permitted activities for Mainland companies, covering commercial, professional, industrial, and service sectors.
Access to Government Projects
Only Mainland companies are eligible to participate in government contracts and public sector tenders, offering significant revenue opportunities.
Unlimited Visa Eligibility
Mainland companies can apply for as many visas as needed, depending on office space, which makes them a better option for businesses planning larger teams.
Credibility & Banking Advantages
Banks and clients often consider Mainland businesses more trustworthy, making it easier to open corporate bank accounts and secure partnerships.
By choosing Mainland company formation, you are positioning your business for sustainable growth, stronger market presence, and long-term stability in Dubai.
Key Benefits of Dubai Mainland Company Formation
Choosing a Mainland company in Dubai opens the door to unlimited opportunities. Unlike free zone companies, Mainland businesses enjoy complete flexibility, credibility, and long-term growth potential across the UAE and beyond.
1. 100% Foreign Ownership (for most activities)
With recent regulatory reforms, foreign investors can now own their Mainland companies fully in most sectors, giving them complete control of profits and decision-making.
2. Unlimited Market Access
Mainland companies can trade and operate freely across Dubai, the wider UAE, and international markets without restrictions. This makes them ideal for businesses aiming to expand locally and globally.
3. Wider Range of Business Activities
The Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) approves hundreds of activities for Mainland companies — from trading and consultancy to contracting, manufacturing, and hospitality.
4. Unlimited Visa Quotas
Unlike free zone companies that have limited visa quotas, Mainland companies can apply for as many visas as required, based on office space and workforce needs.
5. Stronger Credibility with Government & Banks
Mainland companies are often preferred by government authorities and banks. This makes it easier to secure tenders, contracts, and corporate bank accounts.
6. Flexibility in Office Locations
Mainland businesses can set up offices anywhere in Dubai, whether in prime commercial districts, business hubs, or industrial areas, giving them greater visibility and operational freedom.
7. Access to Government Contracts & Tenders
Only Mainland-licensed companies can bid for lucrative government tenders, infrastructure projects, and semi-government contracts — a key growth opportunity for ambitious investors.
Cost of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai
Starting a Mainland company in Dubai is slightly more expensive than setting up in a free zone, but it gives you unrestricted trading rights, more activity options, and higher credibility.
The cost of Mainland company formation in Dubai typically ranges between AED 18,000 and AED 25,000. The final cost depends on your business activity, the number of visas, and office space requirements.
What’s usually included in this cost:
- Trade name reservation and initial approval
- Drafting of Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement
- Trade license issuance from the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET, formerly DED)
- Establishment card and labour card
- One or more investor visas (depending on package)
Additional costs may include:
- Medical tests & Emirates ID issuance
- Office lease or Ejari registration
- Staff visas and quota approvals
- VAT & corporate tax registration (if required)
- Bank account setup assistance
Mainland vs Free Zone Company Setup — Comparison
Before deciding between a Mainland company and a Free Zone company, it’s important to understand the key differences.
| Feature | Mainland Company | Free Zone Company |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% foreign ownership (for most activities) | 100% foreign ownership |
| Market Access | Can trade anywhere in UAE & globally | Can trade inside free zone & internationally; requires distributor to trade on mainland |
| Activities Allowed | Wide range approved by DET | Restricted to specific free zone activities |
| Visas | Unlimited visas (subject to office space) | Limited visa quotas depending on package |
| Office Requirement | Physical office or Ejari mandatory | Flexi-desk or shared office usually accepted |
| Banking | Easier approval with top UAE banks | Banking possible but sometimes slower |
| Corporate Tax | 9% on taxable income above AED 375,000 | 0% only if QFZP conditions met; 9% on non-qualifying income |
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Mainland Company in Dubai
Setting up a Mainland company in Dubai involves clear steps. With the right consultant, the process is straightforward and usually takes 1–3 weeks.
Step 1 – Choose Business Activity & Legal Structure
Select your activity from the DET list and decide whether you need an LLC, Sole Establishment, or Branch.
Step 2 – Reserve Trade Name & Initial Approval
Apply for trade name approval and obtain initial approval from the authorities.
Step 3 – Draft MoA or LSA Agreement
Prepare the Memorandum of Association (for LLCs) or sign an LSA agreement (for professional licenses).
Step 4 – Lease Office Space (Ejari)
Secure a physical office or shared workspace and register the tenancy (Ejari).
Step 5 – Submit Final Application & Pay Fees
Submit all documents, pay the official fees, and collect your trade license.
Step 6 – Apply for Visas & Establishment Card
Once licensed, apply for investor visas, staff visas, and get your establishment card.
Step 7 – Open a Corporate Bank Account
Choose a bank that fits your needs and complete the KYC process with our assistance.
Documents Needed for Mainland Company Setup in Dubai
To register a Mainland company in Dubai, you must submit certain documents to the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET, formerly DED) and other relevant authorities. The exact requirements depend on your chosen activity and company structure, but the most common documents include:
For Shareholders and Partners
- Passport copies of all shareholders and partners
- UAE entry stamp or residence visa copies (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photographs (white background)
For Business Setup
- Proposed trade name options for approval
- Initial approval form issued by DET
- Drafted Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement
- Office lease agreement (Ejari)
Additional Requirements (if applicable)
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the current sponsor for residents
- Professional qualification certificates (for certain consultancy activities)
- Approvals from external authorities (e.g., KHDA for education, DHA for healthcare, MOCCAE for food trading)
How Gulf Corporate Services Helps You with Mainland Company Registration in Dubai
At Gulf Corporate Services, we understand that setting up a Mainland company in Dubai can feel overwhelming with multiple approvals, paperwork, and government requirements. Our role is to simplify this journey and ensure that your business is registered quickly, legally, and with complete peace of mind.
Personalized Consultation
We begin by understanding your business model, goals, and budget to recommend the most suitable legal structure and activities under the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET).
End-to-End Documentation Support
From preparing the Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement to trade name reservation and Ejari registration, we handle all paperwork with precision.
Government Liaison & Approvals
Our PRO specialists coordinate directly with DET, immigration, and labour authorities to secure approvals without delays or repeated visits.
Visa & Immigration Assistance
We manage investor and employee visa applications, medicals, and Emirates ID processing so you can build your team seamlessly.
Bank Account & Compliance Advisory
We connect you with trusted UAE banks, help you meet KYC requirements, and guide you through VAT and corporate tax registration once your company is established.
With our expertise and strong relationships with government entities, Gulf Corporate Services makes Mainland company registration in Dubai faster, smoother, and fully compliant, allowing you to focus on growing your business from day one.
Start Your Mainland Company in Dubai Today
The UAE is one of the best places in the world to grow your business, and mainland company formation in Dubai gives you full access to this thriving market. Whether you’re starting fresh or expanding your operations, Gulf Corporate Services is here to make the process easy and stress-free.
Get in touch with Gulf Corporate Services today for a free consultation. Turn your business idea into reality with trusted mainland company setup services in Dubai.
Get In Touch Free Consultation
+971 56807 2491
FAQs on Mainland Company Formation in Dubai
Our team of experts addresses common questions from people worldwide regarding company formation in the UAE.
Do I still need a sponsor for my Dubai company?
Not usually. Most business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership. Only certain regulated sectors require a sponsor or LSA.
When is an LSA used instead of a sponsor?
With complete documents, Mainland setup usually takes 1–3 weeks.
Do I still need a local sponsor?
No, most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership. However, certain professional or strategic sectors may still require a UAE national sponsor or local service agent.
What documents are required?
Passport copies, visa/entry permit copies, passport-sized photos, business plan (for some activities), and tenancy contract (Ejari).
Can a Mainland company trade across the UAE?
Yes, Mainland companies can freely operate anywhere in Dubai, across the UAE, and internationally.