Dubai Mainland
Dubai Mainland
Dubai Mainland
Mainland Business Setup in Dubai
A Dubai mainland company is a business entity registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED), giving entrepreneurs the freedom to operate both within the UAE and internationally. Thanks to recent reforms, foreign investors can now own 100% of their business in most sectors without the need for a local sponsor.
Setting up on the mainland isn’t just about tax benefits—it’s about flexibility. Companies have the freedom to trade across the UAE, hire staff without restrictions, and choose office locations without being tied to free zone boundaries.
At Shuraa Business Setup, we make the process straightforward. From securing trade licenses to handling legal documentation and government approvals, our consultants, legal advisors, and PRO specialists ensure your mainland business is up and running with minimal hassle.
Service Process
1 Choose Your Business Activity
Decide what type of business you want to establish: trading, consulting, manufacturing, e-commerce, or another sector. Your chosen activity will determine the type of license you need.
2 Reserve a Trade Name
Choose a company name that follows UAE naming rules. It must be unique, free of religious or offensive words, and not already in use. You can check availability through the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the Ministry of Economy.
3 Get Initial Approval from the DED
Once you’ve finalized your business activity and trade name, apply for initial approval. This is the official confirmation that you can move forward with the setup process.
4 Arrange Office Space
Every mainland company needs a physical office. Select a location that fits your business needs and submit the tenancy contract (Ejari) to the DED as part of your license application.
5 Submit Documents and Apply for a Mainland License
Prepare and submit the required paperwork—trade name certificate, Memorandum of Association (MOA), initial approval, and office lease agreement. Once processed, you’ll receive your business license, which legally allows you to operate in Dubai.
6 Obtain Additional Approvals (if needed)
Some industries require extra clearances from specific government departments—for example, healthcare, education, or finance. These must be secured before your license is issued.
7 Open a Corporate Bank Account
With your business license in hand, you can set up a corporate bank account. Dubai offers both local and international banking options to support your business operations.
8 Apply for Visas
Finally, apply for investor and employee visas. Mainland companies can sponsor visas for staff and their families, with the number of visas tied to the size of your office space.