Mainland company formation in Dubai opens doors to both local and international markets, providing established companies with strategic access for broader business opportunities.
Mainland businesses, thanks to existing laws, can enjoy 100% ownership, allowing foreign investors to actively contribute to the UAE's economy and engage in business without the need for an Emirati partner.
Mainland companies enjoy unrestricted geography and business interactions. They can engage with consumers, offer government services, open multiple branches, and establish a nationwide presence, fostering a robust business environment.
No obligatory capital needed for mainland business setup, facilitating startups. For details on the cost of establishing a mainland company in Dubai, please reach out to us.
The UAE offers a favorable tax environment, with no corporate or personal income tax. This tax advantage enhances financial attractiveness and encourages business growth and investment in the region.
Depending on your business type, a local sponsor may be needed for your foreign company to establish operations, especially in sectors like energy, oil, and gas. The local sponsor can be an individual or a UAE-based company. It's advisable to confirm this requirement with a business consultancy before proceeding.
Businesses need to opt for activities allowed by UAE law, selecting from over 2000+ options listed by entities like the Dubai Economic Department. Permitted activities encompass ecommerce, media, publishing, agriculture, hospitality, and manufacturing.
Various legal business structures are available for company setup, including Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC), and more. LLC stands out as the most prevalent business establishment type in the UAE.
To register a business in the UAE, secure a distinctive trade name, adhering to guidelines. Avoid offensive language, religious references, or implied support for other entities. The trade name should consist only of full names and, if translated, be phonetically written rather than literally translated.
The company must secure initial approvals from authorities like the DED and other relevant bodies, tailored to the business activity. This step ensures compliance with regulations and smooth initiation of business operations.
The MOA is a legal document detailing the company's activities, ownership structure, and other particulars. Verify the necessary documentation with a business consultant based on your company's structure and business activity.
To acquire a trade license, the company must lease a mainland office space. The UAE provides diverse options, including rentals, flexi-desks, co-working spaces, and virtual offices. Select a suitable option based on your business size and budget.
This pivotal step in UAE business setup requires obtaining a trade license from the DED for mainland operations. Submit all necessary documents during this crucial phase to facilitate your business activities.
If meeting the taxable threshold, companies need to register for taxes with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Ensure compliance with this requirement to fulfill your tax obligations.
To facilitate seamless business operations, companies must open a corporate bank account in the UAE. This essential step ensures efficient financial transactions, supports company growth, and enhances credibility in the local business landscape. Choose a reputable bank and provide the necessary documentation for a smooth account opening process.
In the UAE mainland, business owners face no restrictions on visa applications. However, align the required office space with the number of visas needed, following the standard rule of 100 sq. ft. per visa.
The mainland permits a diverse array of business activities. Nevertheless, the specific list of allowable activities may differ based on the emirate and the business entity type. Typically, permissible business activities in mainland UAE include
Including the import and export of goods, wholesale and retail trading, and commercial agencies.
Involving the production and assembly of goods.
Including legal, accounting, engineering, and management consulting services.
Involving hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
like clinics, hospitals, and fitness centers.
Including schools, universities, and training centers.
which includes activities like buying, selling, and renting of properties.
Involving software development, IT services, and telecommunications.
which are publishing, printing, and advertising agencies.
Companies involved in manufacturing or industrial activities are required to obtain this license. An industrial license grants businesses the authorization to conduct activities associated with the manufacturing, production, and processing of goods.
Companies offering professional services, such as legal, accounting, engineering, or consulting services, need to obtain a professional license. This license enables businesses to offer their services to clients within the UAE.
This license is imperative for businesses engaged in tourism activities, such as hotels, travel agencies, and tour operators, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and facilitating the smooth operation of their services in the UAE.
An educational license is imperative for companies engaged in educational activities, such as schools, colleges, and training centers, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and facilitating the provision of quality education within the UAE.
Companies involved in healthcare activities, including hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, require a healthcare license to operate. This license authorizes businesses to offer medical services and products in the UAE, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
Companies involved in trading or commercial activities, including the buying and selling of goods, are mandated to obtain this license. The license is applicable in the UAE for both specialized trading and general trading endeavors. It is versatile, enabling the establishment of either a limited liability company (LLC) or a sole establishment. A commercial license is crucial for businesses engaged in import and export activities, allowing them to conduct trade operations within the UAE.
The media license is required for companies engaged in media and publishing and broadcasting activities, such as newspapers, magazines, and advertising agencies. A media license allows a business to publish or broadcast news and other content in the UAE.