Mainland
Mainland company setup in the UAE
A mainland licence lets your company trade anywhere in the UAE, work with government entities and expand through branches — with 100% foreign ownership available for most activities.
What is a mainland company?
A mainland company is licensed by the economic department of the emirate where it is based — in Dubai, the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). It can operate throughout the UAE and internationally, deal directly with consumers and businesses, and take part in government projects and tenders.
Mainland companies can hold commercial, professional, industrial or tourism licences, and there is generally no minimum capital requirement for most activities.
Advantages of a mainland company
Trade across the UAE
No geographic restrictions — serve customers anywhere in the country and abroad.
100% foreign ownership
Available for most activities; a limited list of strategic activities has special rules.
Government contracts
Eligible to bid for government projects and tenders.
Room to grow
Open additional branches across the UAE as your business expands.
Flexible visa allocation
Visa quota is linked to your office space, so it grows with your premises.
Wide range of activities
Thousands of licensable activities across trading, services and industry.
The mainland setup process
Choose your activity
Select activities from the emirate’s approved list that match your business plan.
Select a legal form
Common options include an LLC, sole establishment or a branch of a foreign company.
Reserve a trade name
The name must follow naming rules and must not imitate existing names or trademarks.
Initial approval
Obtain initial approval from the economic department and any sector regulators.
Legal documents
Prepare the Memorandum of Association and related documents for signature.
Office lease
Lease suitable premises and register the tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai).
Trade licence
Submit the final documents and pay the fees to receive your licence.
Tax, visas and banking
Register for Corporate Tax (and VAT if required), process visas and open your bank account.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a local sponsor for a mainland company?
Not for most activities. Since 2021, 100% foreign ownership is allowed for the majority of commercial and industrial activities. Some strategic-impact activities still have specific ownership requirements, which we confirm for your case.
Do I need a physical office?
Yes. Mainland licences require registered premises, and the size of your office determines how many visas you can apply for.
When must I register for VAT?
VAT registration is mandatory once taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 over 12 months, and voluntary from AED 187,500.
Do UAE companies pay corporate tax?
Yes. UAE Corporate Tax applies to financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023: 0% on taxable income up to AED 375,000 and 9% above that. Every company must register with the Federal Tax Authority; we can guide you through registration.
Related services
Talk to a business setup advisor
Tell us about your plans and we will recommend the right structure, licence and next steps for your business.
