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Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

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Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Looking to operate your business freely within the UAE and beyond? Mainland company formation allows you to trade without restrictions and provides unlimited growth opportunities. Let’s help you get your business up and running in Dubai Mainland. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward establishing your business in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

What is Dubai Mainland?

Dubai Mainland refers to the area regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), where businesses are allowed to operate both within and outside the UAE without restrictions. A Dubai Mainland company can trade within the UAE, conduct business internationally, and enjoy full access to the UAE market.

Why Choose Mainland Company Formation in Dubai?

Establishing a business in Dubai Mainland is a strategic decision that offers numerous advantages, including unrestricted access to the local and global markets. Here’s why Dubai Mainland is the best place for your business:

100% Foreign Ownership for Certain Business Activities:

Dubai has introduced reforms that allow 100% foreign ownership for specific business activities, removing the need for a local partner or sponsor.

Access to the Entire UAE Market:

Unlike free zones, Dubai Mainland businesses are not restricted to trade within a specific zone. They can conduct business throughout the UAE, including directly with government entities.

No Restrictions on Office Location:

Dubai Mainland companies have the freedom to establish their offices anywhere in Dubai, offering the flexibility to choose a location that suits your business operations.

Expand internationally:

Mainland companies can operate and expand both locally and globally, providing greater flexibility for growth.

Unlimited Visa Quota:

Dubai Mainland companies can apply for an unlimited number of employee visas, allowing your business to scale its workforce based on its needs.

Eligibility for Government Contracts:

Only businesses registered in Dubai Mainland are allowed to bid for lucrative government tenders, opening doors to profitable contracts and growth opportunities.

Flexible Business Activities:

Dubai Mainland companies are free to engage in a wide variety of business activities, allowing you to diversify your operations without limitations.

Types of Business Structures We Help Form in Dubai Mainland

Dubai Mainland is home to diverse business structures. We assist with setting up the following types of companies, ensuring that your business is structured for success:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)


The most common and flexible business structure in Dubai Mainland, an LLC allows you to have foreign ownership (up to 100% for specific activities) and is ideal for various industries.

Sole Proprietorship


For entrepreneurs who prefer complete control of their business operations, a sole proprietorship allows you to operate independently under your own name or a trade name.

Civil Company


Designed for professional service providers such as consultants, doctors, engineers, and accountants, a civil company allows full ownership by foreign nationals.

Branch of a Foreign Company


International companies looking to enter the UAE market can set up a branch in Dubai Mainland, which allows them to maintain 100% ownership while conducting business within the UAE.

Representative Office


If your company only intends to promote your business and does not need to engage in direct commercial activity, setting up a representative office is the perfect solution.

What is the Process of Setting Up a Company in Dubai Mainland?

Setting up a company in Dubai Mainland is a straightforward process when managed efficiently. Below is an outline of the key steps involved in forming a Dubai Mainland company:

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Step 01 Determine Your Business Activity

The first step is to choose the type of business activity your company will engage in. The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) provides a wide range of business activities, including commercial, industrial, and professional categories. Selecting the right activity is crucial, as it determines the license type and any specific regulations you must comply with.

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Step 02: Choose and Reserve a Trade Name

Select a trade name that reflects your business identity. The name must comply with DED’s naming guidelines, including restrictions on using specific words and ensuring that the name is not already registered by another business. Once approved, the trade name will be reserved for your company.

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Step 03: Obtain Initial Approval from DED

ubmit your application for initial approval to the DED. This step verifies that your business activities and trade name are acceptable, allowing you to proceed with the company formation process. Initial approval is required before moving forward with any further steps.

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Step 04: Draft the MOA

Prepare and sign the Memorandum of Association (MOA), which outlines the shareholding structure of the company, the roles and responsibilities of shareholders, and other key details about how the business will be governed. This document must be notarized and submitted for official approval.

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Step 05: Secure a Physical Office Space

Dubai Mainland companies are required to have a physical office address to obtain a trade license. You’ll need to secure office space that meets the business activity requirements and register your tenancy agreement through Ejari. This is essential for the final trade license approval.

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Step 06: Submit Documents for Final Approval

After securing your office space, submit the following documents to the DED for final approval:

  • Trade name certificate
  • Initial approval certificate
  • Notarized Memorandum of Association (MOA)
  • Tenancy contract (Ejari)
  • Copies of shareholders’ passports and visas (if applicable)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) (if required)
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Step 07: Pay the Fees and Obtain Your Trade License

Once all documentation is in order, you will need to pay the relevant fees to the DED for your trade license. Fees can vary depending on the business activity, office location, and number of visas required. After payment, you will be issued the official trade license, allowing you to legally operate your company in Dubai Mainland.

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Step 08: Apply for Visas

Once your trade license is obtained, you can apply for the necessary visas for shareholders, employees, and dependents. The number of visas your company can sponsor will depend on the size of your office space and the type of business activity.

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Step 09: Open a Corporate Bank Account

After completing the company formation process, you can open a corporate bank account in Dubai. This requires providing your trade license, MOA, shareholders’ details, and other documentation as requested by the bank.

Our team at PRO Desk is here to guide you through each step, ensuring that the process is handled smoothly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on building your business in Dubai Mainland. Whether you need assistance with trade name registration, documentation, office space, or visa processing, we provide comprehensive support to make your company setup hassle-free.

What Documents Are Required to Set Up a Dubai Mainland Company?

Setting up a company in Dubai Mainland involves preparing and submitting a series of important documents to the relevant authorities. The exact documents required can vary depending on the type of business you are forming, but typically include the following:

  •  Copies of passports for all shareholders, directors, and managers involved in the business.
  • Visa copies of shareholders and directors along with their UAE entry stamp (if already in the UAE).
  •  If a shareholder is currently employed in the UAE, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current employer may be required.
  •  This may include utility bills or a tenancy contract as proof of residential address for shareholders and directors.
  •  A legal document that outlines the roles, responsibilities, and shareholding structure of the company.
  • An approved trade name certificate from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).
  •  This is an official document from DED granting preliminary approval to proceed with the business setup.
  •  Proof of a physical office address, such as a signed tenancy contract or Ejari registration, which is a legal requirement for obtaining a trade license.
  • If a legal representative is appointed to act on behalf of the shareholders, a notarized power of attorney is required.

What is the Cost of Dubai Mainland Company Formation?

The cost of setting up a company in Dubai Mainland depends on several factors, including the type of business activity, the number of visas required, and the choice of office space. Key components of the setup cost include:

  • Trade License Fees: The cost of obtaining a trade license varies based on the type of license (commercial, professional, or industrial) and the business activities involved.
  • Local Sponsorship Fees (if applicable): If your business activity requires a local UAE sponsor, there will be a fee for their services.
  • Office Space Rental: Depending on your business needs, you may opt for a physical office, a flexi-desk, or a shared workspace. The rental cost will vary based on location and space requirements.
  • Visa Fees: The number of visas your business requires will affect the overall cost. Each visa comes with processing fees, medical tests, and Emirates ID costs.
  • PRO Services: If you opt for PRO services to manage government-related documentation and approvals, there may be an additional fee.
  • Company Registration and Documentation Fees: These include fees for notarization, drafting legal documents like the Memorandum of Association (MOA), and other governmental charges.

At PRO Desk, we offer transparent and customized pricing packages based on your business needs. Contact us today for a tailored cost estimate that outlines all the necessary expenses for your Dubai Mainland company formation.

How Pro Desk Assist You With Dubai Mainland Company Formation?

At PRO Desk, we provide a full spectrum of company formation services tailored to your business needs. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, SME, or multinational corporation, our expert team ensures every step of the process is handled efficiently. Our Dubai Mainland company formation services include:

Business activity selection

Business Consultation and Strategy

Every business is unique. We provide personalized consultations to understand your business goals and recommend the best legal structure, whether it’s a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a sole proprietorship, or a branch of a foreign company.

Submit License Application and Pay Fees

Documentation Assistance

Our team at PRO Desk will ensure all required documents are prepared, submitted, and approved efficiently to avoid delays in the company formation process.

Approval from DED

Company Registration

We facilitate your company’s registration with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), ensuring all legal requirements are met, from documentation to approvals.

Trade registration

Trade Name Registration

We assist you in choosing and registering a unique trade name that complies with the UAE’s strict naming guidelines.

Local Sponser

Local Sponsorship Services

For businesses requiring a local sponsor, we provide trusted UAE nationals who will act as your 51% partner, giving you peace of mind while retaining operational control.

Obtain Your Trade License

Business Licensing

Our team will handle the entire business licensing process, from applying for your trade license to securing approval from the relevant authorities.

Apply for Visas

Visa and Immigration Services

From investor visas to employee visas, we take care of all visa-related requirements, ensuring a hassle-free experience for you and your employees.

Ongoing Compliance

Corporate PRO Services

We offer PRO services to manage government paperwork, clearances, document attestations, and approvals on your behalf.

Lease Office Space and Obtain Ejari Registration

Office Space Setup

Our network of real estate partners helps you find the perfect office space in Dubai Mainland that aligns with your operational needs.

Open a Corporate Bank Account

Bank Account Opening Assistance

We work closely with UAE’s leading banks to ensure smooth and quick corporate bank account opening for your business.

Ongoing Compliance

Ongoing Business Support

Our relationship doesn’t end with company formation. We offer ongoing support for business renewals, government updates, and compliance to ensure your business runs smoothly in the long term.

Setup Your Business In Dubai Mainland With Ease!

Ready to establish your business in Dubai Mainland and unlock new opportunities? Contact PRO Desk today to schedule a free consultation and get started on your path to success.

Why Choose PRO Desk for Dubai Mainland Company Formation?

When it comes to company formation in Dubai Mainland, PRO Desk stands out as a leader in delivering comprehensive, reliable, and personalized services. Here’s why:

Local Expertise

Our team has in-depth knowledge of Dubai’s regulatory landscape and ensures your business is compliant with all legal requirements.

End-to-End Support

We provide full support throughout the formation process and beyond, assisting with everything from company registration to PRO services.

Tailored Solutions

We understand that each business is unique. We work closely with you to develop a formation strategy that meets your specific needs.

Cost-Effective Packages

Our pricing is transparent and competitive, offering great value without hidden fees.

Exceptional Customer Service

Our dedicated consultants are always available to answer your questions and offer advice at every stage of your business journey.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Dubai Mainland allows for a wide range of business activities, including commercial, industrial, and professional services. Common examples include general trading, real estate, IT services, marketing, healthcare, and retail.

    On average, the Dubai Mainland company formation process takes about 5 to 10 business days, depending on the type of business, the approval process, and whether all required documents are in place.

    Dubai Mainland companies are required to have a physical office space. This could be a dedicated office, a shared workspace, or a flexi-desk, depending on the company’s needs and the nature of its operations.

    Yes, Dubai Mainland companies are permitted to open multiple branches within the UAE. Each branch can operate under the same trade license or obtain a separate license based on business activities.

    Yes, depending on the business activity, 100% foreign ownership is allowed in several sectors, especially in professional services, technology, and other specified industries. Recent regulatory changes have removed the local sponsor requirement for several business types.

    Dubai Mainland companies enjoy several tax advantages, including:
      • No personal income tax.
      • No corporate tax for most business activities.
      • No capital gains tax.
      • 5% VAT is applicable on goods and services, in line with the UAE’s VAT regulations, but many businesses are exempt from other taxes.
      • Full repatriation of profits is allowed, with no restrictions on transferring funds abroad.

    A local sponsor is typically required for certain business activities in Dubai Mainland, where the UAE national owns 51% of the company shares. However, recent laws allow 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors, meaning a local sponsor may not be necessary depending on your business activity.

    Yes, a Dubai Mainland company can operate across all emirates in the UAE. Unlike free zone companies, which are limited to their designated free zone, a Dubai Mainland company has full access to all areas of the UAE, including other emirates such as Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah.

    There is no fixed minimum capital requirement for most types of companies in Dubai Mainland. However, some business activities may have specific capital requirements as dictated by local regulations or the nature of the business. For example, some activities in the professional or industrial sectors may require a higher capital investment.

    Yes, your Dubai Mainland company can hire foreign employees and sponsor their UAE work visas. The number of visas you can sponsor depends on the size of your office and other factors like your business activity and office space.