Mainland Visas in Dubai
A mainland UAE visa is your gateway to live, work, and sponsor family members legally in the Emirates. Whether you’re an investor, employee, or entrepreneur, our experts simplify the process and ensure fast approvals.
With a mainland UAE visa, you unlock access to local markets, government projects, and the freedom to grow your business anywhere across the UAE.
Mainland Visas
Private firms may apply for new employment entry permits to be granted their employees, and should acquire a residence visa status within 30 days of the employee’s arrival in UAE. An employment visa for companies registered in a free zone is valid for three years, and that of onshore registered firms two. The employers also have an obligation to complete all arrangements for the journeys of these new employees, including procuring ‘approved-to-board’ certificates required by some airline companies.
What is a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
A mainland visa in Dubai is an official permit that allows you to live, work, and invest in the UAE under a mainland-registered company.
This visa is issued by government authorities like GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) and ICP (Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship).
Suppose you’re opening a Dubai mainland company or joining as an employee. In that case, this visa is essential for operating legally in the UAE.
The Benefits of a Mainland UAE Visa
- Legal right to work across the UAE
- Opportunity to apply for government contracts
- Sponsor family members under a mainland family visa
- Open a corporate bank account in Dubai
- Apply for visas for employees or dependents
- Easier long-term residency transition
With our guidance, your mainland visa application process becomes simple and hassle-free.
Types of Mainland Visas in Dubai
Depending on your purpose, Dubai mainland offers different visa types.
Mainland Employment Visa Dubai
If you join a mainland-registered company, you’ll apply for a mainland employment visa in Dubai.
This visa is valid for up to 2 years and allows you to work legally under DED approved activities.
Investor or Partner Visa
If you’re investing in or owning shares of a mainland business, you’re eligible for an investor visa in Dubai mainland.
This visa allows you to manage your company legally and stay in the UAE.
Family Residency Visa Dubai
With your valid mainland visa, you can sponsor your family members.
The Dubai mainland family visa covers your spouse, children, and parents, ensuring they live safely and legally in the UAE.
We assist you in selecting the right type of mainland residence visa in Dubai to match your goals.
Step-by-Step Process for Getting a Mainland UAE Visa
Here’s how we simplify your mainland visa application process:
Step 1 – Entry Permit Application
We apply for your entry permit through ICP, allowing you to enter or change your status in the UAE.
Step 2 – Medical Test and Emirates ID Registration
Complete your medical fitness test and biometric scan for your Emirates ID.
Step 3 – Labour Approval (For Employment Visas)
For mainland employment visas in Dubai, we process your labour contract with MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation).
Step 4 – Residency Visa Stamping
We handle your passport submission for the visa stamp, which GDRFA has approved.
Step 5 – Emirates ID Issuance
Finally, your Emirates ID is issued, confirming your legal UAE residency.
We manage every step for you, ensuring a fast mainland visa processing time in the UAE.
Documents Required for Mainland Visa in Dubai
Having complete documents speeds up your approval.
For Mainland Employment Visa Dubai
- Passport copy (valid minimum 6 months)
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Entry permit approval
- Emirates ID application form
- Medical fitness certificate
- Labour contract from MOHRE
For Investor/Partner Visa
- Trade licence copy (mainland company)
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- Share certificate
- Immigration card copy
- Passport and photos
For Family Residency Visa
- Sponsor’s mainland UAE visa copy
- Proof of relationship (attested marriage/birth certificates)
- Emirates ID copy of sponsor
- Bank statement or salary certificate
- Ejari (tenancy contract)
We prepare and verify all documents for smooth approvals by UAE government visa authorities.
Mainland UAE Visa Cost in 2025
Understanding your costs helps you plan better.
Employment Visa Cost
The mainland UAE employment visa cost ranges from AED 3,500 to AED 6,000, depending on the company and quota.
Investor Visa Cost
For business owners, the cost typically ranges from AED 4,000 to AED 7,000, including medicals and Emirates ID.
Family Visa Cost
Expect around AED 2,500 to AED 4,500 per dependent, based on duration and age.
Additional fees may apply:
- Medical tests
- Emirates ID fees
- Courier services
- Fast-track visa processing
We offer clear pricing for all Dubai mainland visa types, with no surprises.
Validity and Renewal of Mainland Visas
Most mainland residence visas in Dubai are valid for 2 years, with renewals required to maintain legal status.
Mainland Visa Renewal Process
- Medical test renewal
- Emirates ID renewal
- Submission to GDRFA and ICP
- Payment of renewal fees
- Receive updated Emirates ID and visa stamp
We track your visa validity and handle renewals on time.
Get Your Mainland UAE Visa with Confidence
Ready to secure your UAE mainland residence visa?
We are here to guide you from start to finish — fast approvals, expert advice, and full support.
Contact Us Today
Get your free consultation now.
Our experts will help you understand your options, handle your documents, and fast-track your mainland visa application.
Your successful future in the UAE begins here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I sponsor my family with a mainland UAE visa?
Yes. With your mainland employment visa Dubai or investor visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents, as long as you meet salary and accommodation requirements.
How long does mainland visa processing take?
The typical mainland visa processing time UAE is 5 to 7 working days after submitting all documents.
What’s the difference between mainland and free zone visas?
Mainland visas allow you to work anywhere in the UAE and take on local government projects. Free zone visas restrict you to the zone and international activities only.
Can I switch from a free zone to mainland visa?
Yes, you can change your visa type. We assist with the cancellation of your old visa and smooth application for your new Dubai mainland company visa.