Mainland Company Formation in UAE

Establishing a mainland company in Dubai is a smart step toward tapping into the UAE’s dynamic market. ThinkBiz helps you navigate the entire process with ease, opening doors to limitless growth, strategic advantages, and global expansion opportunities

Company Formation in UAE

Starting a business in the vibrant UAE cities is an accessible venture for visionaries. Known for its exceptional trade market, the UAE is a premier destination for local and international investors. With world-class infrastructure and a strategic location, it offers unique growth opportunities across various sectors.

Investors are keen on the UAE mainland business setup, benefiting from tax advantages and a dynamic networking hub. Recent regulatory changes now allow foreign investors to achieve 100% ownership of mainland companies in specific sectors, facilitating the establishment of a Limited Liability Company (LLC) without a local sponsor. However, these regulations vary by industry, ThinkBiz experts assist potential investors in setting up a business in the mainland regions, ensuring compliance with all regulations.

For seamless company registration on the UAE mainland and expert guidance on mainland business setup services, understanding the requirements for obtaining a UAE mainland trade license is essential.

Types of Mainland Company Formation in UAE

In the UAE, mainland companies have the freedom to do business both inside the country and overseas since they’re registered under the UAE’s onshore system. Below are the common types of Mainland company formation in the UAE:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

In the UAE, when you go for a Limited Liability Company, or simply an LLC, it gives foreign investors the possibility to fully own their business in different sectors. This structure keeps the personal risk low for shareholders. It also lets the company handle business both inside the UAE and in other countries.

Sole Establishment

A Sole Establishment is pretty straightforward. It’s a type of business where one person is the full owner and is fully responsible for everything. This is often a good pick for small businesses or professionals who like to have direct control over what happens in their company.

Civil Company

A Civil Company is suited for professionals like doctors and lawyers, with partners having unlimited liability and the option for 100% foreign ownership.

Branch of a Foreign Company

A Branch of a Foreign Company allows international businesses to operate in the UAE while maintaining full ownership and liability under the parent company.

Branch of a UAE Company

A Branch of a UAE Company enables local businesses to expand operations into different Emirates, with the parent company retaining full responsibility.

Public Shareholding Company (PJSC)

A Public Shareholding Company (PJSC) allows large businesses to raise public capital through shares, with shareholders liable only for the amount of their shares.

Private Shareholding Company (PrJSC)

A Private Shareholding Company (PrJSC) is for medium to large businesses, offering limited liability without public shareholding, which is ideal for private ownership.

Representative Office

A Representative Office allows foreign companies to promote their business in the UAE without trading activities, fully owned and controlled by the parent company.

Benefits of UAE Mainland Company Formation

100% Foreign Ownership

Access to the UAE Market

No Trade Restrictions

No Minimum Capital Requirement

Unlimited Visa Options

Office Flexibility

No Currency Restrictions

Eligibility for Government Contracts

Tax Benefits

Ease of Business Setup and Operations

Step-by-Step Process of UAE Mainland License

Choose business activity

Select legal structure

Reserve trade name

Apply for initial approval

Prepare Memorandum of Association (MOA)

Rent office space

Obtain tenancy contract

Submit documents to DED

Pay required fees

Collect business license

Start Your Journey to Mainland Success

FAQ’s

What is a Mainland Company in the UAE?

A Mainland Company in the UAE refers to an onshore company that is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of the respective Emirate. These companies can conduct business locally, within the UAE, and internationally. Mainland companies also have access to government contracts and can operate across different Emirates without any restrictions.

Can a foreign investor own 100% of a Mainland Company in the UAE?

Yes, recent regulatory changes allow 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies in specific sectors. The ThinkBiz team can help determine if your business falls under the sectors that permit full foreign ownership, and guide you through the setup process without needing a local sponsor.

What is the difference between Mainland, Free Zone, and Offshore companies in the UAE?

Mainland companies are licensed by the local DED and can operate throughout the UAE and internationally.

Free Zone companies are restricted to operating within specific free zones and conducting international business but may need a local agent to trade within the UAE.

Offshore companies are designed for businesses that do not intend to conduct business within the UAE but want to operate internationally from a UAE base.

What are the main types of Mainland companies in the UAE?

There are several types, including:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Sole Establishment
Civil Company
Branch of a Foreign Company
Branch of a UAE Company
Public Shareholding Company (PJSC)
Private Shareholding Company (PrJSC)
Representative Office

Each structure has its own advantages, and ThinkBiz experts can help you
choose the most suitable option for your business.

What are the benefits of forming a Mainland company in Dubai?

Forming a Mainland company provides numerous benefits, such as:

100% foreign ownership in specific sectors
Access to the entire UAE market and international markets
No trade restrictions within the UAE
No minimum capital requirement
Unlimited visa options
Tax benefits and government contracts eligibility

How long does it take to establish a Mainland company in Dubai?

The process typically takes around 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the type of company, the business activity, and document submission. However, with the expert guidance of ThinkBiz, the process can be expedited by avoiding common mistakes and delays.

Do I need a physical office to set up a Mainland company in the UAE?

Yes, a physical office is mandatory for Mainland companies, as per UAE regulations. ThinkBiz can assist you in finding suitable office space and completing the tenancy contract required for the business license.

What are the costs involved in setting up a Mainland company?

The costs can vary depending on the type of company, business activity, and specific approvals required. Typical costs include trade name reservation, initial approval, MOA drafting, office rent, tenancy contract, and DED fees. ThinkBiz provides a clear breakdown of costs to help you plan your budget effectively.

What are the legal requirements for setting up a Mainland company in Dubai?

The legal requirements include selecting a business activity, choosing a legal structure, reserving a trade name, preparing the MOA, securing office space, and obtaining initial and final approvals from the DED. ThinkBiz experts ensure your business complies with all the legal requirements for Mainland company formation.

Can a Mainland company open a branch in other Emirates?

Yes, Mainland companies can open branches in other Emirates without any additional licenses or approvals. ThinkBiz can guide you through the process of expanding your business to other parts of the UAE.