Mainland Business Setup In UAE

Establish Your Company in 4 Simple Steps

Here are four steps to setting up a business in Dubai

Select the business activity

Choose the industry you wish to operate in. The Department of Economic Development (DED) offers a wide range of approved business activities.

Register your business name

A trade name differentiates your business from others and reflects its nature. Apply for the trade name through the Economic Department.

Apply for the trade license

Secure your company name, submit the documents, and settle the fees. A trade license allows you to conduct business under your selected name.

Set up a business bank account

You will need a trade license, certificate of incorporation, memorandum and articles of association, passport copies of the shareholders and directors.

Why Choose Mainland Company Formation in Dubai?

Establishing a business in Dubai’s mainland is governed by Federal Law, and Mainland   Companies are considered the most sophisticated corporate entities. Setting up a business in   Dubai’s mainland offers several advantages:

Strategic Location: The UAE’s position in the Middle East provides a prime opportunity for   businesses to expand and connect with other GCC nations.

 Favorable Economic Policies: The UAE government offers numerous incentives, such as 100%   foreign ownership and no personal taxes, making it an attractive destination for investors   across various industries.

Double Taxation Avoidance: Companies engaged in import-export operations can sign   agreements to avoid paying taxes twice, ensuring that taxes are only paid once, rather than on   both ends.

Office Setup: Dubai’s mainland offers plenty of office space options, making it a sought-after   location for businesses looking to establish a presence.

Benefits of mainland company formation in Dubai​

Trade directly, without the need for agents or distributors

Full foreign ownership is allowed in most cases

Engage in government projects within the UAE and GCC

mainland company formation in dubai

Easily grow and diversify your business

Operate in a tax-efficient environment

Establish your business anywhere across the UAE mainland

Establish your ideal business in the UAE mainland

As a leading business setup consultant in the UAE, Broeck Consultancy offers a full range of services for mainland company formation in Dubai and other emirates. We assist with every aspect of the process, from registration and licensing to office setup, visa applications, bank account opening, and PRO services, ensuring a seamless experience for our clients.

We recognize that budget is a key consideration when starting a business, and that each client has unique needs. Therefore, we provide affordable, tailored packages to suit individual requirements.

By opting for a mainland business setup in the UAE, you gain access to a thriving economy, a larger market, top-tier infrastructure, and a favorable business environment. Enjoy the numerous advantages of operating in the UAE mainland, including local customer access and the flexibility to engage in international trade. Begin your journey to establishing your dream business in the UAE mainland—contact us today!

License types and activities:

  • Commercial License

    A Commercial License is required for businesses involved in trading and supplying goods. 

    • Mobile phones and accessories
    • Building materials
    • Chemicals, oil & gas
    • Automobiles and spare parts
    • Gold and precious metals
  • Industrial License

    An Industrial License is needed for manufacturing or industrial activities. 

    • Garments and uniforms manufacturing
    • Food products (meat, dairy, sweets)
    • Animal feed production
    • Textiles, carpets, and embroidery
  • Professional License

    A Professional License is necessary for businesses providing expertise and services. 

    • IT, insurance, legal, and marketing consultancies
    • Auditing, accounting, and public relations
    • Waste management and recycling consultancy

Why Should You Set Up Your Business on the Mainland?

The reasons can be many. All we can tell you is that there is a best-fit for every business, and your business could potentially benefit from having an office in the mainland of the United Arab Emirates, as opposed to setting it up in a designated free zone or as an offshore company.

If you are an advertising company, your clients will definitely appreciate being able to reach you in an easy-to-access location. It is much easier than travelling to a free zone on the outskirts of the city, plus you can scale up more easily as you grow. Some legal advisory firms pay a lot of attention to the privacy of their clients, and having an office on the mainland enables them to achieve this objective. There are just a few examples of the advantages of locating your business on the mainland.

Benefits of mainland company formation in Dubai

There are many benefits to company registration on the mainland. Mainland company setup ensures a prosperous future in your business activities and professional ventures. Mainland companies offer a broad scope of trade, 100% ownership and location flexibility. These are some of the reasons why entrepreneurs look to establish a mainland company in the UAE.

Location flexibility and zero trade restrictions

A Dubai mainland company has no restrictions on trade between other businesses and has no limits on location. Mainland companies can also offer services to the government, or trade directly with consumers from anywhere in the UAE. Mainland company setup also allows businesses to open multiple branches, building a strong presence throughout the Emirates.

Broad working scope

Mainland businesses are also in a position to undertake a wide scope of work. When you’re wanting to diversify your offering within the mainland, simply re-register the new business activity with the DED and you’re ready to trade freely.

Access to lucrative government contracts

Any incentive for mainland business setup in Dubai is that government tenders are big business in the UAE. In recent years, the Abu Dhabi Executive Council approved AED 17.5bn (USD 4.76bn) of spending on government projects, including over AED 4bn on infrastructure. Approximately AED 2bn was allocated for education and a combined AED 1.2bn on upgrades to governmental and social facilities. As an established mainland company in Dubai, you’ll be well positioned to take advantage of such lucrative government contracts.

mainland company formation in dubai

100% ownership control of mainland business entities

Traditionally, 100% foreign ownership of a UAE business entity was only possible under two circumstances:

  • When setting up in a free zone or
  • When establishing a professional services company in the mainland (Sole Establishment or Civil Company) 

In recent years, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has allowed 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies in the UAE. This has been a welcome change for prospective overseas investors looking to conduct business in the Emirates. This is great news for international investors new to the Emirates. 100% foreign ownership means business owners can get straight down to business, without the need to canvass for an Emirati company or individual to act as a partner.  100% foreign ownership of mainland UAE business provides incredible potential for the UAE’s growth-machine economy to foreign investors. However, certain strategic sectors, such as oil and gas, still require a local partner. 

 

Switching from free zone to mainland company formation in Dubai

If you’re currently set up within a free zone business structure and considering the leap to forming a mainland company, we’re here to help. Over 30,000 companies currently trade from the three biggest UAE free zones.  Foreign entrepreneurs can set up in a free zone and enjoy the conveniences of pre-packed business inclusions. Yet there are limitations on this model for business owners. While free zone companies form an ideal starting point for UAE businesses, when it’s time to expand, it’s time to make the switch to a mainland company. Switching to a mainland company is crucial for business prosperity. With the right UAE national sponsor or company formation specialist, moving from a free zone to the UAE mainland is a shrewd and manageable move.

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How to Establish Your Company on the Mainland

The first step involves identifying what the commercial activities you plan to undertake are. Based on this, the right company structure that is beneficial for your business can be determined. For instance, you could set up your company as a Sole Establishment, a Legally Limited Partnership, a Legally Limited Company, or a Private Limited Company. Registering a company on the mainland requires you to have a Local Sponsor who will own 51% of the company. The Local Sponsor can be a male or female above the age of 21. In addition, the Local Sponsor must be a UAE national or an Emirati. Having a Local Sponsor who owns 51% of your company does not mean the Local Sponsor takes home 51% of the profits. Things work differently in the UAE. The Local Sponsor needs to be paid a Sponsor Fee according to a predetermined agreement, and this could be done on a monthly / quarterly / half-yearly / annual basis. In some cases, the Local Sponsor takes a percentage of the sales. The Local Sponsor is legally responsible for the functioning of your company. But the Local Sponsor can sign over a Power of Attorney relinquishing his/her control over your company, and this way, you will in charge of everything. The Local Sponsor can be an individual, or it could also be another company incorporated in the United Arab Emirates. The latter still functions in the same way, putting you in full control over your business.

Mainland Company Setup

Government Department

We work closely with all government agencies

Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Dubai Mainland Company Formation Made Simple

Looking for Mainland Company Formation in Dubai? Broeck Consultancy makes the process smooth and efficient. Our team guides businesses through every step, ensuring full compliance with UAE laws and regulations while minimizing delays and costs. We also offer alternative options like Free Zone Company Setup in UAE for entrepreneurs exploring different jurisdictions.


Why Choose Mainland Company Formation in Dubai?

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai comes with many advantages:

  • 100% Foreign Ownership in most business activities

  • Access to Local Markets across the UAE

  • No Currency Restrictions

  • Ability to Trade Directly with clients and suppliers

  • Flexible Business Activities tailored to your goals

  • Unlimited Employment Visas based on your office space

Learn more about working with Top Business Setup Consultants in Dubai to maximize your setup efficiency.


Types of Mainland Company Structures

Dubai mainland companies can operate under several legal forms:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC)

  • Sole Establishment

  • Civil Company

  • Branch of a Foreign Company

  • Representative Office

Each structure has unique advantages depending on your business size, activity, and investment goals.


Step-by-Step Process for Mainland Company Formation

We simplify the complex process into clear, actionable steps:

  1. Choose Business Activity – Identify the correct business activity for your operations.

  2. Select Legal Structure – Choose the suitable company type (LLC, Sole Establishment, etc.).

  3. Reserve Trade Name – Ensure your trade name is unique and approved.

  4. Initial Approval – Obtain approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED).

  5. Draft Memorandum of Association (MoA) – Prepare the legal documentation.

  6. Choose Business Location – Find suitable office space or flexi-desk options. Check our Office Space Solutions.

  7. Submit Final Application – Complete the licensing process and receive your trade license.


Documents Required

To establish your mainland company, you will typically need:

  • Passport copies of shareholders

  • Visa copies of shareholders (if applicable)

  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if applicable)

  • Trade name reservation certificate

  • Initial approval certificate

  • Memorandum of Association (MoA)


Costs of Mainland Company Formation

The setup cost varies depending on:

  • Type of business activity

  • Number of shareholders

  • Office space requirements

  • Government fees and approvals

We provide a transparent cost breakdown upfront, helping you plan your budget efficiently.


Why Dubai is Ideal for Business

Dubai provides a world-class environment for businesses to thrive:

  • Strategic global location

  • State-of-the-art infrastructure

  • Business-friendly policies

  • Access to international markets

  • Attractive tax regime


Why Choose Broeck Consultancy

Partnering with us ensures a smooth and professional setup experience:

  • Expert Guidance – Years of experience in Dubai mainland setups

  • Tailored Solutions – Customized strategies for your business type and industry

  • Time-Saving – We handle approvals, so you can focus on growth

  • End-to-End Support – From company formation to Visa & Immigration Services and Corporate Services


Start Your Mainland Company in Dubai Today

Setting up your mainland company in Dubai is easier with Broeck Consultancy. We ensure your business is fully compliant, ready to operate, and positioned for growth.

📞 Contact us today to start your company formation journey in Dubai!