Thinking about starting a company in Dubai? A mainland license might be your best move. It lets you trade freely across the UAE and work with both local and international clients. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how mainland company formation in Dubai works, step by step, with no confusion.
You’ll learn what setup involves, what it costs, and what rules apply. Whether you’re a new founder or a foreign company expanding, this guide will help you make smart choices from the start.
A mainland company is a business licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. It allows you to operate anywhere in the UAE without restrictions on location or clientele.
Unlike free zone companies—often limited to specific zones or foreign trade—mainland companies can serve local clients and even bid for government contracts.
One key advantage is that, since 2021, many business activities no longer require a local sponsor, depending on the nature of the setup.
Mainland companies can be formed under the following business structures:
Mainland company setup in Dubai gives you more freedom than a free zone setup. You can trade across the UAE, open offices anywhere, and take on both private and government contracts. Below are the main benefits:
| Feature | Mainland Company | Free Zone Company |
|---|---|---|
| Market Access | UAE + International | Within Free Zone + International |
| Office Requirement | Mandatory physical office | Can operate with flexi-desk |
| Government Contracts | Eligible | Not eligible |
| Visa Quota | Flexible (based on office size) | Limited (depends on package) |
| Foreign Ownership | 100% allowed in most activities | 100% allowed |
| Expansion Flexibility | Easy expansion across UAE | Limited to Free Zone unless branch is set up |
To set up a mainland company in Dubai, several government departments must approve various aspects of your business. Each authority has a specific role depending on your activity and setup type.
Below are the main authorities involved:
Department of Economic Development (DED): Issues the trade license and approves the company name and activity.
Dubai Municipality: Reviews and approves the office premises and Ejari for the business location.
Federal Tax Authority (FTA): Oversees VAT registration for businesses that meet the criteria.
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): Grants labor approvals and employee work permits.
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA): Processes investor and employment visa applications.
Some businesses may also require additional approvals from specific departments like the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) based on their sector.
| Business Activity | Approving Authority |
|---|---|
| Healthcare (clinics, pharmacies) | Dubai Health Authority (DHA) |
| Education (schools, training) | Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) |
| Legal services | Dubai Legal Affairs Department |
| Finance (auditing, advisory) | Ministry of Economy / UAE Central Bank |
| Food businesses | Dubai Municipality (Food Safety Department) |
| Construction & engineering | Dubai Municipality / Society of Engineers |
| Media & publishing | National Media Council (NMC) |
| IT & telecom | Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TDRA) |
| Security services | Ministry of Interior / SIRA |
| Import/export & logistics | Dubai Customs / DP World |
Start Your Company Today with Expert Support!
Select your activity from the DED-approved list, it determines your license type.
Common options include LLC, Sole Establishment, or Civil Company, based on your ownership and business model.
Pick a name that follows DED rules and reflects your business.
Submit passport copies, visa info, and basic forms to DED for permission to proceed.
Draft and notarize the Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) contract.
Rent at least 200 sq ft, and register the lease through Ejari.
Submit all documents to DED, pay the fees, and get your Dubai mainland license.
With 15+ years of experience, RIZ & MONA Consultancy is your trusted partner for setting up and growing your mainland company in Dubai. We handle the entire process — from legal structuring and MOA notarization to approvals and license issuance — so you can focus on your business.
What We Offer:
100% Transparency
Dedicated PRO & Legal Support
Industry-Specific Packages
Ongoing Business Support
Book your free consultation today and let our experts guide your business success in Dubai.
RIZ & MONA – Your Business Setup Advisors
The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually through the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Yes, you can list multiple activities, but they must fall under the same license category (commercial, industrial, or professional). Each additional activity may increase the licensing cost.
Yes, for key steps like signing the MOA or collecting your trade license, your physical presence is usually required. However, some steps can be managed remotely through a Power of Attorney.
Yes, you can add or remove partners by amending the Memorandum of Association (MOA) through a legal process and DED approval.
Late renewal leads to penalties, possible blacklisting, and suspension of your company’s activities. The business may also be fined for each month it remains inactive.
Yes, after getting your license, you must open a UAE corporate bank account to carry out business transactions and comply with local regulations.