Dubai Mainland offers unrestricted business activities and direct access to local markets. Our experts will help you navigate the process of setting up your business with full compliance to local regulations.
Start Your Mainland Business TodaySetting up a business in Dubai Mainland provides flexibility in business operations, access to local markets, and the ability to expand within the UAE without restrictions.
Most mainland businesses require a local sponsor, who will hold 51% of the shares, unless you're setting up a professional services business, where 100% foreign ownership is allowed.
You must acquire a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) to legally operate in Dubai Mainland. This involves submitting documents and selecting the business activities you intend to carry out.
The process for setting up a business in Dubai Mainland can take between 15 to 30 working days, depending on the type of business and industry.
Access to Local Markets: Unlike freezones, mainland businesses can freely trade within the UAE’s local market, giving access to a larger customer base.
No Office Location Restrictions: You are free to set up your office anywhere in Dubai or the wider UAE, giving you greater flexibility in choosing your business location.
Ability to Bid on Government Contracts: Mainland businesses are eligible to participate in government tenders and contracts, which are not accessible to freezone companies.
Local Sponsor Agreement: Most mainland businesses require a local sponsor who holds 51% of the shares, unless you're setting up a professional services company or a branch of a foreign entity.
Trade Name Approval: Submit the proposed trade name of your company for approval by the Department of Economic Development to ensure it complies with UAE naming conventions.
Initial DED Approval: Obtain an initial approval from the Department of Economic Development to proceed with further documentation and licensing.
Lease Agreement: To complete the registration process, a tenancy contract for a physical office location in Dubai Mainland is required.
Determine the right business structure for your company. Common structures include Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), sole establishments, or branch offices of foreign companies. Each has its own legal and financial implications.
For most business types, you’ll need to enter into an agreement with a UAE national (the sponsor), who will own 51% of the business. Professional service companies, however, can be fully foreign-owned.
Submit your trade name and business activity for approval to the DED. Alongside this, provide all necessary documents such as MOA, sponsorship agreements, and identification details.
Rent or lease office space as per the DED’s regulations. An Ejari tenancy contract will be required to complete your company registration.
Once your documentation is approved and your office is secured, your business license will be issued, allowing you to commence operations.
