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set up your mainland business In duabi

Mainland Business Formation in Dubai

Are you considering a mainland business in Dubai? With over 3,000 business activities, enjoy the freedom to trade anywhere in the UAE and overseas.

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Mainland Business Formation in Dubai

What exactly is a UAE mainland business, and why is it so important to have one? A mainland business is a business licensed by the Depart- ment of Economic Development (DED) in the relevant Emirate of the United Arab Emirates.

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Advantages of Setting up Business in a Mainland

UAE mainland registration Benefits & Setup Guide

Location flexibility and no trade restrictions

  • No limitations on trade with other businesses.
  • No location constraints within the UAE.
  • Opportunity to trade directly with consumers nationwide.
  • Permitted to open multiple branches for widespread presence in the Emirates.

Broad working scope

  • Mainland businesses can undertake a wide range of activities.
  • Easily re-register new business activities with the DED.
  • Quick and efficient process to start trading in diversified areas within the mainland.

Access to profitable government contracts

  • Government tenders represent significant business opportunities.
  • Recent approval of AED 17.5bn on government projects.
  • Established mainland businesses well-positioned to capitalize on lucrative government contracts.

100% ownership of mainland business entities

  • Welcomed by overseas investors seeking business opportunities.
  • HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum allows 100% foreign ownership.
  • Facilitates immediate business setup without the need for local partnerships.
  • It fuels the UAE's growth-machine economy, though certain sectors, like oil and gas, may still require a local partner.

Switching from free zone to mainland business formation in Dubai

If you’re currently set up within a free zone business structure and considering the leap to forming a mainland business, we’re here to help. The three biggest free zones in UAE already host over 30,000 businesses. As a foreign entrepreneur, you can establish your business in a free zone and benefit from pre-packaged business inclusions that come with it.
 
Yet, there are limitations to this model for business owners. While free zone companies form an ideal starting point for UAE businesses, when it’s time to expand, it’s time to switch to a mainland company. Switching to a mainland company is crucial for business prosperity. With the right UAE national sponsor or business formation specialist, moving from a free zone to the UAE mainland is a wise and manageable move.
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Mainland Business Setup in Dubai

It’s time for your business setup checklist. Let’s get your venture off to a successful start!

Step 01

Choose your business activity

Choose the industry in which you will trade for your mainland business.

Step 02

Select Ideal Business Location

Once your business activity is defined, select the ideal business location.

Step 03

Decide Business Structure

Various Business Structures Available for foreign entrepreneurs in UAE.

Step 04

Opt for Local Partnership Setup

Needed local sponsor for Dubai business.

Step 05

Name your Business

Selecting a business name that reflects your brand and professional values is a pivotal entrepreneurial decision.

Step 06

Get mainland trade licence

Initiate the application for a mainland trade license through the Department of Economic Development.

Step 07

Secure your office space

After acquiring a business trading license, secure your office space.

Step 08

Apply for relevant visas

No visa limit, but they should align with the required office space.

Step 09

Consult Business Setup Expert

Choose UAE Consultants to Align with Your Business Objectives

Let us help you, to start your
Dubai company today.

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Contact us

Call +971 56 866 3666 or fill out the form to schedule a consultation with one of our Business Setup Advisors.

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Monday to Friday

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Office Address

Office 908, 9th floor; Tamani Arts Office Building, Business Bay – Dubai

United Arab Emirates

If calling from outside the UAE, please contact us on

+971 56 866 3666

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