Have Your Own Mainland
Set Up Your Mainland Company
A mainland company, licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the relevant Emirate of the United Arab Emirates, is free to conduct business anywhere in the UAE. Also referred to as an “onshore company,” a mainland company in Dubai is one of the most sought-after business setups. Mainland companies can offer services to the government, semi-government and trade directly with consumers throughout the UAE. Additionally, they can open multiple branches, establishing a strong presence across the Emirates. Notably, there is a 0% minimum capital requirement for establishing a mainland company. To attract foreign investment and boost investor confidence, the UAE amended the UAE Commercial Companies Law to permit 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies, effective from June 1, 2021. This ownership is allowed for companies engaged in specific business activities listed in the UAE’s positive list, which includes over 1,100 activities across various sectors
Mainland companies can choose any location in Dubai for their office, enabling them to trade locally and open multiple branches, thereby strengthening their presence in the UAE. Unlike free zone companies, mainland companies have more options for conducting business activities. For example, entities in Dubai Media City can engage not only in the media sector but also in related industries. Additionally, a mainland license does not impose restrictions on the number of visas a company can obtain, although acquiring more visas depends on the availability of office space.
Benefits of Setting Up a Company on the Mainland
- World-class infrastructure to support every aspect of your business
- Unrestricted flexibility to scale operations based on business needs
- Stable business climate with a robust regulatory framework
- Capability to operate in both local and international markets simultaneously
- Ease of doing business, facilitated by international conferences and trade expos
- Access to major banks and audit services to support growth
- Freedom to choose the location of your office
- Access to a global talent pool
- Flexibility to conduct business activities in both local and foreign markets
- No limit on the number of visas issued for the company
- Office premises can be based anywhere in mainland Dubai
- Mainland business owners are able to trade locally and capture the UAE market
- There is a 0% minimum capital requirement for establishing a mainland company
- 100% capital and profits repatriation is possible with a mainland company ownership
ADAM Global specializes in mainland company formation in UAE. If you wish to take advantage of the benefits that a fully owned UAE Mainland company has to offer, contact us today.
Mainland Company Structure
There are various ways to establish a mainland business in the United Arab Emirates, but the Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most popular and reliable vehicle.
Our attorneys and skilled management consultants conduct due diligence, corporate restructuring, and feasibility studies to assist you in establishing the perfect business on the UAE’s mainland:
Sole proprietorship
Limited liability company (LLC)
Private limited company (PLC)
Public joint stock company (PJSC)
Branches, regional headquarters and representative offices of foreign companies
Single family offices
The Process Of Mainland Company Formation
At ADAM Global, we guide you through each step of your business journey. Although the process is quite detailed, below is an 8-step process highlighting the essential incorporation procedure for your mainland company formation in the UAE.
Step
01
Choose Your Business Type
Step
02
Determine Legal Form Of Entity
Step
03
Register Tradename With DED
Step
03
Acquire DED’s Initial
Approval
Approval
Step
04
Select A Suitable Business Location
Step
05
Get Other Relevant Authorities Approval
Step
07
Apply For The Mainland Business License
Step
08
Obtain Chamber
Membership
Membership
Confirm workspace
Perhaps you have a certain location in mind for your new office, but if you are not sure or are a newcomer to the UAE, our real estate advisors can help you identify, verify, and purchase or lease office space.
There are multiple choices for new business set up in the UAE’s mainland, each catering to specific needs and budgets:
- Virtual office
- Leased office
- Fully owned office
- Office building
- Workshop
- Warehouse
Observe Labour Laws
Our immigration teams will take care of opening an official government file, processing your Establishment Card, and applying for the necessary number of work and/or residence visas for family members and employees if you choose not to handle the process of obtaining visas yourself. This covers the attestation, translation, and verification of different papers as well.
Bank Account
Establishing a corporate bank account is necessary in order to obtain a mainland Dubai license. Legally, businesses must keep personal and business funds apart.
The United Arab Emirates has a plethora of options, including prominent global banks, reputable regional banks, and digital-only banks. Each has unique benefits for business owners, startups, small enterprises, and multinational conglomerates.
Our specialists will provide you with their knowledge to help you decide wisely and finish the necessary paperwork.
Mainland Business Activities
A mainland company license gives you access to thousands of business activities while certain activities, special approval is required from the relevant government department and ADAM Global will guide you here from start to its completion.
- Gymnasiums and health clubs can be formed as either professional licenses or LLCs.
- Hospitality licenses cover food and beverage activities such as cafes, bars and restaurants.
- These licenses enable you to trade freely with mainland clients without having to use distributors.
- Retail licenses cover shops in malls and other outlets and include everything from clothing to books stores.
- Licenses include event management and event planning for private and public events.
- Manufacturing licenses cover the manufacture of goods in the UAE for distribution locally and globally.
- Healthcare licenses require special approval from the Dubai Heath Authority.
Ready to transform your business challenges into growth opportunities?
Contact us today to learn how we can help you succeed in the UAE's thriving market.
