Trade anywhere in the UAE - no geographic limits.
A mainland company is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the respective emirate, giving you full access to the UAE market, government contracts and unlimited visa capacity.
What a mainland licence gets you.
Freedom to Operate Anywhere
Free trade policies in the UAE allow you to trade globally, meaning you can do business within the UAE and outside.
Stronger Market Presence
Unlike free zone companies, businesses with a mainland licence can cater to the UAE market without any limitations - a significant advantage in customer reach and business opportunities.
Ability to Work with Government Bodies
Dubai mainland companies are allowed to carry out business with government and quasi-government bodies in the UAE or the GCC, and can bid for tenders in construction, realty, transport and tourism.
No Currency Restrictions
Businesses can conduct transactions in any currency, providing significant flexibility in international trade.
No Visa Limitations
Unlike FZE companies, Dubai mainland companies are allowed to apply for unlimited visas based on the requirement of the company.
Financial Viability
A mainland presence supports scaling - new offices or warehouses, more employees and access to a wider spectrum of activities under the DED.
Mainland companies can be categorised as Professional, Commercial and Industrial.
Selecting the appropriate business activity and legal structure is an essential prerequisite for setting up a mainland business in the UAE. Choose from the following common structures:
Sole Establishment
A business owned by an individual, not a company.
Limited Liability Company
An adaptable type of enterprise that mixes elements of partnership and corporate structures.
Branch of Foreign Company
Can carry out professional activities in addition to some commercial and industrial activities.
Representative Office
Not a business structure in its own right, but a business activity a branch can conduct. Requires a Local Service Agent (LSA).
Civil Company
Typically a business partnership for professionals such as doctors, lawyers, engineers and accountants.
Partnership / Shareholding
Partnership under a civil agreement with up to four partners, or private and public shareholding companies.
Six steps to your mainland licence.
Select business activity
Match your trade to the DED activity list.
Choose legal structure
LLC, sole establishment, civil company or branch office.
Reserve trade name
Register a compliant company name with the DED.
Initial approval & MOA
Draft and notarise the Memorandum of Association.
Lease office space
Ejari-registered lease meeting the DED requirements.
Licence issuance & banking
Collect trade licence and open your corporate bank account.
Is mainland the right route?
In most cases, yes - but sometimes a free zone or offshore structure is cheaper and faster. We'll tell you honestly, based on your activity and plans.
Talk to a consultant