Want to Start Mainland Company Formation in Dubai and the UAE?
Are you ready to start your entrepreneurial journey in Dubai and the UAE? Take the leap into Mainland Company Formation in dubai and unlock a world of exciting business opportunities. Setting up a Mainland Company allows you to have a physical presence in the country and engage in business activities across the UAE without restrictions.
By choosing Mainland Company Formation, you can tap into the thriving local market, access government projects, and build strong relationships with local partners. Enjoy the benefits of conducting business with other Mainland companies and government entities, fostering credibility and trust in the region.
With nearly 13 years of experience in setting up businesses in Dubai, Company Setup Consultant offers a range of services in Dubai, including comprehensive assistance with company registration, obtaining UAE trade licenses, securing government approvals, Trade license renewal, Company Liquidation in Dubai, PRO Services, bank account opening, accounting and Bookkeeping services and visa services. We recognize that setting up a business in Dubai can be a complex and costly process without the proper guidance, expertise, and connections. That’s why we prioritize our clients’ needs and business objectives, providing them with straightforward and efficient solutions for business setup at competitive prices.
Most Suitable Locations for Mainland Business Setup in Dubai, UAE
Dubai Mainland
The private businesses are authorized to conduct any commercial activities in the Dubai Mainland under the jurisdiction by the department of Economic development. The aspect of judicial procedures that are considered for the start mainland Business Setup Dubai, are managed by Department of Economic Development.
Abu Dhabi Mainland
Abu Dhabi mainland is an adventurous marketing hub for small companies and startups because of massive number of major improvements in the region as compared to other emirates. We have customized plans for new companies as well as reputed businesses help in initiating your business in the mainland of Abu Dhabi.
Sharjah Mainland
One of the highly stabilized community of UAE is Sharjah. Its reputation as well as establishment will attract you for building empire in the mainland. The company formation is highly affordable with additional perks of modern infrastructure, amenities, and special business facilitation measures.
Ajman Mainland
Ajman is reputed for outnumbered business opportunities and lavish office infrastructure. The mainland is the concentrated hub for international investments. We are available to help you start your business in the mainland of Ajman.
Fujairah mainland
It is already well established region with reputed multi-national businesses landed in the mainland. The perks in establishing businesses in the mainland are convenience, opportunities, and affordability with the similar growth as expected in Dubai.
Steps to Start Mainland Company Formation in Dubai, UAE
Sure, here’s a simplified version of the steps to establish a company in the UAE mainland:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Type
Select the category that best fits your business:
- Occupational
- Tourism
- Industrial
- Commercial
- Agricultural
- Professional
Step 2: Decide on Your Company Structure
Pick the structure that suits your business needs:
- Sole establishment
- Branch of a local company
- Limited liability company
- Public or private joint stock company
- Representative office of a foreign company
Step 3: Register Your Company Name
Get a unique trade name for your company by applying through the emirate’s Department of Economic Development.
Step 4: Get Initial Approval
Get the UAE Government’s approval to proceed with setting up your business. This doesn’t allow you to operate yet, but it’s a necessary step.
Step 5: Prepare Legal Documents
Depending on your company’s structure, prepare a Memorandum of Association (MOA) or a local service agent agreement (LSA).
The memorandum of association is indeed required for the following business legal forms in Dubai, UAE:
- Limited partnership
- Limited liability company (LLC)
- Public joint stock company (PJSC)
- Private joint stock company (PrJSC).
The memorandum of association serves as a legal document that establishes the foundation and governing principles of the company. It plays a crucial role in defining the rights, obligations, and relationships among the company’s shareholders and partners.
Step 6: Choose a Location
Select a physical address for your business that complies with the requirements of the Department of Economic Development and the zoning regulations of local municipalities. In Dubai, register the tenancy contract through the Dubai Land Department’s Ejari portal.
If you want to rent private office in Dubai for Mainland, Spider business center offers fully furnished office spaces to start your business hassle-free.
Step 7. Obtain Additional Government Approvals
Certain business activities may require additional approvals from relevant government entities. Ensure you comply with all the necessary regulations.
Step 8: Submit Documents
Submit your initial approval receipt, lease contract, and any required approvals. Here are the required documents that you need to submit to the Department of Economic Development in Dubai:
- Copies of the passports of all the partners in the business.
- Tenancy contract and EJARI registration certificate.
- Initial approval certificate.
- Required external approval certificates.
- The Memorandum of Association.
- Filled up trade license application.
Step 9: Pay Fees and Get Your License
Pay fees and collect your business license from the economic department’s service centers or website.
Step 10: Register with the Chamber of Commerce
Register your company in the same emirate where it was incorporated.
Read Also: What is the Cost of Mainland Company Setup in Dubai
Benefits of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai
a). Location Flexibility and Zero Trade Restrictions:
Mainland company formation in Dubai allows for location flexibility and has no restrictions on trade between businesses. Companies can provide services to the government and trade directly with consumers anywhere in the UAE. Additionally, businesses can open multiple branches, establishing a strong presence throughout the Emirates.
b). Broad Working Scope:
Mainland companies have the advantage of being able to undertake a wide scope of work. If a company wishes to diversify its offerings, it can simply re-register the new business activity with the Department of Economic Development (DED) and start trading freely in the new sector.
c). Access to Lucrative Government Contracts:
Mainland companies in Dubai have the opportunity to participate in lucrative government tenders and projects. The UAE government invests heavily in infrastructure, education, and social facilities, creating substantial opportunities for businesses to secure government contracts and contribute to the country’s development.
d). 100% Ownership Control:
Traditionally, 100% foreign ownership of a business entity in the UAE was limited to free zones or professional services companies. However, recent changes in regulations now allow 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies in Dubai, except for certain strategic sectors such as oil and gas. This change has opened up new possibilities for international investors, eliminating the need for a local partner and providing greater control over their businesses.
Mainland company formation in Dubai offers entrepreneurs and investors the advantages of location flexibility, a broad working scope, access to government contracts, and increased ownership control. These benefits contribute to the attractiveness of establishing a mainland company in the UAE’s thriving business environment.
When seeking assistance with setting up a business in Dubai Mainland , don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Contact our professional consultants today!
Frequent Ask Questions on Mainland Company Formation
WHAT IS A MAINLAND COMPANY?
A Mainland company is a company registered with the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). To do business in the UAE Mainland, you need to register your business entity with the DED and obtain a business license.
Mainland companies can engage in various activities such as industrial, commercial, trading, professional, or tourism activities. However, some professional activities may be excluded or require additional approvals from specific regulatory authorities.
Foreign investors have two options for company formation. They can either form a partnership where UAE nationals hold 51% ownership or choose a Sole Establishment company to have 100% ownership. It’s important to note that certain business activities are reserved exclusively for UAE nationals.
Shareholders need to complete the necessary formation documents and processes, including appointing a manager through a Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Service Agreement. The appointment can be for a limited or unlimited period. A Mainland company must have at least one manager and can have up to a maximum of five managers.
Can a company be set up in Dubai mainland without a sponsor?
After some recent additions and amendments of the laws in the UAE, foreigners can now set up a Dubai Mainland business without a local sponsor. However, a few sectors that are strategically important to the government of the UAE still requires local sponsors.
You can still start a business in these sectors. However, you can only own 49% of the business, and the rest of the 51% needs to be owned by a local sponsor. But do not worry about having to split the profits in that percentage as well.
Local sponsors can be found for a small annual fee. These strategically important sectors include the transportation industry, the defense industry, and the oil and gas industry.
What are the steps of mainland company formation in Dubai?
To register a Mainland company in the UAE, you can follow these general steps:
- Determine the Business Activity
- Select a Business Name
- Choose a Local Partner or Decide on a Sole Establishment
- Prepare Legal Documents
- Lease Office Space
- Submit Application
- Obtain Approvals and Licenses
- Pay Fees
- Receive Trade License
- Fulfill Post-Registration Requirements
Can a Freezone company trade in the mainland?
A Freezone company cannot trade or perform other business activities in the Mainland through normal means. A Freezone company needs to hire a local service provider to perform the business activities in the Mainland for them.
The local service provider will require a fee that will depend on the business activities you mean to perform through them. That is why a mainland company formation in Dubai is more attractive to many investors and entrepreneurs.
How to switch a Free Zone Business to a Mainland business?
To transition a Free Zone business to a Mainland business in the UAE, follow these steps:
1. Cancel Existing Free Zone License: Initiate the cancellation process for your Free Zone license through the respective Free Zone authority.
2. Choose Business Activities: Determine the specific activities your business will engage in within the Mainland.
3. Find Suitable Location: Locate an appropriate physical location for your business within the Mainland jurisdiction.
4. Assess Legal Structure: Evaluate and decide on the legal structure for your Mainland business, considering factors such as ownership requirements and liability.
5. Secure Local Sponsor: Engage a local sponsor who will be a partner in your Mainland business. This sponsor must be a UAE national or a company wholly owned by UAE nationals.
6. Register Business Name: Select a unique name for your business that complies with UAE regulations and register it with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
7. Apply for Mainland Trade License: Submit an application for a Mainland trade license to the DED, specifying your chosen business activities.
8. Obtain Office Space: Secure a physical office space that meets the requirements stipulated by the authorities for Mainland businesses.
9. Apply for Visas: Apply for visas and labor cards for yourself and any employees or partners associated with the business.
10. Register for VAT: If applicable, register your Mainland business for Value Added Tax (VAT) with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
11. Partner with Business Setup Consultant: Consider partnering with a reputable business setup consultant who can guide you through the process and ensure compliance with all regulations.
Which location is suitable for your business in Dubai Mainland?
Choosing a suitable location for your business in Dubai Mainland depends on various factors such as the nature of your business, target market, accessibility, and budget. Here are a few key areas in Dubai Mainland that are popular for business establishments:
- Sheikh Zayed Road
- Business Bay
- Dubai Downtown
- Deira
- Al Quoz
- Jumeirah
- Al Qusais
How much does it cost to set up a mainland company in Dubai?
Dubai mainland business setup typically involves costs ranging from AED 15,000 to AED 35,000. The final expenses are subject to variation based on factors such as license type, business size, nature of the business, specific business activity, and other relevant considerations.
