New Company Setup in Dubai Mainland
Dubai mainland offers several advantages for businesses looking to establish a presence in the region. One of the main benefits is that companies registered in Dubai mainland can conduct business anywhere in the UAE without any restrictions. This provides more flexibility and opportunities for growth compared to free zones, where businesses are limited to operating within the free zone boundaries.
- 100% foreign ownership in most business activities
- Access to the entire UAE market without restrictions
- No currency limitations or capital repatriation barriers
- Eligibility to work with government and private clients
- Strategic location with global connectivity
- Simple company registration and licensing process
- Wide range of office and business space options
- Fast visa processing for investors and employees
- Supportive business environment and legal framework
- Opportunity to expand across the GCC region
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Company Formation in Dubai Mainland
If you’re looking to start a business in the UAE, company formation in Dubai Mainland is one of the best options available. With full access to the local and international markets, 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, and the ability to operate without limitations, As a globally connected business hub, Dubai offers a stable economy, pro-business regulations, and an investor-friendly environment that attracts startups and multinational companies alike.
When proceeding with a company setup in Dubai Mainland, choosing the right business license is essential. The Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) offers three main types of licenses: Commercial License (for trading businesses), Professional License (for service-based businesses), and Industrial License (for manufacturing and industrial operations). Each license category supports a wide range of permitted activities. Selecting the right one not only ensures legal compliance but also makes visa processing and office setup more efficient.
Dubai has made it easier than ever for foreign investors to own 100% of their businesses in many sectors, thanks to the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Law. With no local sponsor required in most activities, international entrepreneurs can now enjoy complete operational control. The simplified process has made company setup in Dubai Mainland a preferred choice for expats launching new ventures.
Legal Requirements for Company Setup in Dubai Mainland
Before starting the process of company setup in Dubai Mainland, it is essential to be aware of the legal requirements involved. One of the key requirements is obtaining a trade license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. The type of trade license will depend on the nature of your business activities. Additionally, you will need to secure approvals from various government authorities, such as the Ministry of Economy and the Dubai Municipality.
01
Legal Business Structure
The first step is choosing the appropriate legal entity. The most common structures for Dubai Mainland include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Sole Establishment
- Civil Company (for professionals)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
02
Trade Name Reservation
You must reserve a unique trade name with the DED. The name should not violate public morals, resemble existing trademarks, or refer to religious or political entities. Once approved, the trade name will be registered under your business license.
03
Initial Approval from DED
An Initial Approval Certificate is mandatory before proceeding with other steps. It indicates that the UAE government has no objection to you starting a business in Dubai Mainland.
04
Memorandum of Association (MoA)
For entities like LLCs, the MoA outlines the ownership percentage, capital contribution, and responsibilities of shareholders. It must be notarized by a public notary in Dubai. This document forms the legal foundation of your business structure.
05
Office Space and Tenancy Contract (Ejari)
A physical office is legally required for all Mainland companies. Once a tenancy contract is signed, it must be registered with Ejari, the official rental contract registration system in Dubai. The office size directly affects the number of visas you can apply for.
06
Final License Issuance
After submitting all required documents and receiving all necessary approvals, the DED will issue your Dubai Mainland business license. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
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Types of Dubai Mainland Business Licenses
Dubai Mainland offers a variety of business licenses tailored to different types of activities, allowing entrepreneurs to operate freely within the city and across the UAE. The primary types of Dubai Mainland business licenses include Commercial, Industrial, Professional, and Tourism licenses. Commercial licenses are issued for trading activities, enabling companies to buy, sell, import, and export goods. Industrial licenses cover manufacturing and industrial activities, allowing businesses to produce and process goods. Professional licenses cater to service providers such as consultants, craftsmen, and freelancers who offer specialized expertise. Lastly, Tourism licenses are designed for companies operating in the travel, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
Each license type in Dubai Mainland comes with specific regulatory requirements and permits companies to operate under the jurisdiction of the Department of Economic Development (DED). This flexibility makes Dubai Mainland an attractive option for businesses seeking to serve the local market or expand across the UAE without restrictions on office location or scope of activities. Additionally, Dubai Mainland companies can engage in government contracts and enjoy easier access to visa issuance and bank account setups, making it a preferred choice for many investors.
Trading License
Service License
Commercial License
Industrial License
Tourism License
Professional License
Dubai Mainland Business Setup: Involved Government Entities
Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland involves coordination with several key government entities to ensure legal compliance and smooth operations. The primary authority overseeing business licensing and registration is the Department of Economic Development (DED). The DED is responsible for issuing trade licenses, approving business activities, and regulating commercial practices within the mainland. Depending on the nature of the business, entrepreneurs may also need approvals or permits from other specialized government bodies, such as the Dubai Municipality for health and safety regulations, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce for membership, or the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation for labor and employment matters.
In addition to the DED, other governmental entities may play a role in the setup process based on the specific sector or business activity. For example, the Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) authority is involved when obtaining licenses for tourism-related businesses. Similarly, the Ministry of Economy might be involved for certain commercial registrations. Entrepreneurs also often interact with the Dubai Land Department for property-related matters if they plan to lease or purchase office space. Collaborating with these entities ensures that businesses meet all regulatory requirements and can operate legally and efficiently in Dubai Mainland.
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)
Dubai Municipality (DM)
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
Federal Tax Authority (FTA)
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
Dubai Civil Defense (DCD)
Steps To Get Dubai Mainland Business Licenses
One of the key advantages of company setup in Dubai Mainland is the wide range of business activities available under the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). With over 2,000 approved business activities, Dubai Mainland licenses support trading, professional, industrial, and service-based enterprises, making it a highly flexible and appealing option for entrepreneurs.
Types of Business Entities in Dubai Mainland
Dubai Mainland offers a variety of business entity types designed to suit different commercial needs and activities. The most common forms include Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), Sole Proprietorships, and Civil Companies. LLCs are popular among foreign investors as they allow local and foreign partners to collaborate, with a minimum of two and a maximum of 50 shareholders. Sole Establishments are owned by a single individual who assumes full liability for the business, making this structure ideal for professionals and small businesses. Civil Companies cater specifically to professionals like doctors, engineers, and consultants who want to practice their professions within Dubai Mainland.
Additionally, there are branches and representative offices of foreign companies, which enable international businesses to establish a presence in Dubai without forming a separate legal entity. Each business entity type comes with specific licensing requirements and ownership regulations, especially concerning the involvement of UAE nationals, which recently have seen reforms allowing full foreign ownership in many sectors. Choosing the right business entity is crucial to ensuring compliance with local laws and optimizing operational flexibility in Dubai Mainland.
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Private Shareholding Company (PSC)
Branch of a Foreign Company
Sole Proprietorship
Cost of Business Setup in Dubai Mainland
To open a business in Dubai or register a company in UAE, many investors turn to business setup services in Dubai to navigate legal requirements and licensing. Professional consultants help streamline company registration in UAE, manage documentation, and ensure compliance with government regulations. From new company setup in Dubai to business registration in Dubai, a wide range of tailored packages are available. With expert support, entrepreneurs can efficiently setup business in Dubai and start operations without unnecessary delays.
Dubai Mainland Package 1
- Project Management Services
- 100% Foreign Owned License
- With 1 Investor Visa
- Medical
- Emirates ID
- Virtual Address
- Bank Account Opening Assistance
- VAT Registration
Dubai Mainland Package 2
- Building Maintenance, Cleaning Services
- 100% Foreign Owned License
- With 1 Investor Visa
- Medical
- Emirates ID
- Virtual Address
- Bank Account Opening Assistance
- VAT Registration
Dubai Mainland Package 3
- Commercial Trading Activity
- 100% Foreign Owned License
- With 1 Investor Visa
- Medical
- Emirates ID
- Virtual Address
- Bank Account Opening Assistance
- VAT Registration
License Activities in Dubai Mainland with Additional Approvals
In Dubai Mainland, business activities that require additional approvals go beyond the standard licensing process and often involve specific government entities or regulatory bodies. These activities include sectors such as healthcare, education, finance, telecommunications, and certain professional services. For example, setting up a healthcare facility requires approval from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), while educational institutions need clearance from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). These additional approvals ensure that businesses comply with industry-specific regulations, safety standards, and quality requirements, safeguarding both consumers and the overall market environment.
Moreover, companies engaged in activities like import-export, construction, and food services may also require permits from relevant authorities such as the Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Economy, or Dubai Civil Defence. Obtaining these extra approvals can involve submitting detailed documentation, undergoing inspections, or meeting special criteria. This layered approval process in Dubai Mainland helps maintain high operational standards and aligns business practices with the city’s strategic economic and regulatory goals. Entrepreneurs should be aware of these requirements early in their setup process to ensure smooth licensing and uninterrupted business operations.
| Business Activity | Special Approval Required From |
|---|---|
Medical Clinics / Healthcare Services |
Dubai Health Authority (DHA) |
Educational Institutions / Training Centers |
Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) |
Legal Consultancy |
Dubai Legal Affairs Department |
Financial and Banking Services |
Central Bank of the UAE / Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) |
Real Estate Brokerage |
Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) |
Construction and Contracting |
Dubai Municipality |
Food and Beverage (Restaurants, Cafes, Catering) |
Dubai Municipality – Food Control Department |
Import/Export of Pharmaceuticals |
Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) |
Recruitment and Employment Agencies |
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) |
Tourism and Travel Agencies |
Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) |
Gold and Precious Metal Trading |
Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) / Police Clearance |
Manufacturing (Food, Chemicals, etc.) |
Dubai Municipality / Civil Defense |
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