Thinking about starting a company in Dubai? A mainland company formation might be your best move. Licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), it gives you complete access to the UAE market with the freedom to trade across all Emirates and work with both local and international clients – even government contracts.

At RIZ & MONA Consultancy, we help entrepreneurs and businesses establish a strong presence in Dubai mainland with full ownership, unlimited market access, and seamless compliance support.

Mainland-in-Dubai

Dubai mainland company setup offers entrepreneurs the most comprehensive business structure for accessing the thriving UAE economy.Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a foreign company expanding into the UAE, mainland formation provides unlimited growth opportunities without restrictions and the flexibility to expand globally from Dubai’s premier business hub.

What is a Dubai Mainland Company?

A Dubai mainland company is a locally registered business entity licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). It operates anywhere in Dubai and across all Emirates with unrestricted access to the entire UAE market. Unlike free zone setups, mainland companies can trade, provide services, and bid for government contracts without limitations. Most activities now permit 100% foreign ownership, with unlimited visa quotas and flexible office locations.

Business Structures for Mainland Companies in Dubai

Mainland companies in Dubai can be formed under several legal structures, each suited to different types of businesses:

LLC (Limited Liability Company):

The most common structure, now allowing 100% foreign ownership in most sectors. Ideal for trading, services, and general business operations.

Sole Establishment:

A business owned by one individual under their own name. Suitable for entrepreneurs and professionals offering consultancy or specialized services.

Civil Company:

A professional structure formed by two or more partners. Common among doctors, engineers, lawyers, and consultants providing expert services.

Private Shareholding Company:

A structure designed for larger ventures with multiple investors. Preferred by businesses with higher capital needs and long-term plans.

Why Choose Mainland Company Formation?

UAE-Wide Market Access

Access to Govt Contracts

More Business Options

Office in Prime Location

Unlimited Visa Quota

Easier Expansion

Enhanced Brand Trust

100% Foreign Ownership

Mainland vs. Free Zone: A Quick Comparison

Feature Mainland Company Free Zone Company
Ownership 100% foreign for most activities 100% foreign, always
Market Access Trade anywhere in UAE & globally Zone + international, limited local
Office Requirement Physical office mandatory Flexi-desk or virtual possible
Visa Quota Unlimited (office size-based) Limited by package/zone rules
Setup Speed 2–4 weeks 3–10 days
Cost Range AED 15k–35k AED 5.5k–50k+
Regulatory Body DET/DED Free Zone Authority
Government Tenders Eligible Not eligible directly
Activity Scope Broadest, 2,000+ choices Zone-specific, industry focus
Taxes UAE corporate tax, VAT Often tax-exempt, VAT applies sometimes
Expansion Branches nationwide Extra setup to expand outside zone

What Affects Your Dubai Mainland Company Formation Cost?

  • Business Activity & License Type: Costs vary for commercial, professional, and industrial licenses. Specialized activities may require additional government approvals and fees.
  • Legal Structure: LLCs cost more than sole establishments due to added documentation and charges.
  • Visa Requirements: Number of visas for owners and employees directly impacts setup and ongoing costs.
  • Office Space: Location, size, and type significantly affect annual investment. Free zones offer flexi-desk options while mainland requires physical offices.
  • Additional Approvals: Specialized sectors (food, medical) need external permits, adding time and fees.
  • Local Service Agent: Some activities require appointing local agents, creating annual fee obligations.
  • Document Processing: Trade name reservation, MOA notarization, registration, and administrative fees contribute to total costs.

Dubai Mainland Company Formation Costs 2025

Service Component Cost Range (AED) Description
Trade Name Reservation 620 – 1,000 Company name registration with DED
Initial Approval 120 – 400 Preliminary business activity approval
MOA Notarization 1,000 – 1,500 Legal document preparation & notarization
Trade License Issuance 10,000 – 20,000 Official mainland business license
Ejari Registration 220 – 320 Office tenancy contract registration
Visa Processing 3,000 – 7,000+ Per person (investor/employee visas)

Regulatory Authorities Involved in Dubai Mainland Business Setup

When setting up a Mainland company in Dubai, several government departments are involved, each handling a specific part of the business setup process.

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.

Documents Required for Mainland Company Setup in Dubai

To set up a business in Dubai mainland, you must meet the following key requirements:

For Individual Shareholders

  • Passport copy, visa copy, Emirates ID (if applicable)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Proof of residence address
  • Trade name options & business activity list
  • NOC (if under employment visa)

For Corporate Shareholders

  • Certificate of Incorporation & MOA/AOA of parent company
  • Board Resolution & Power of Attorney
  • Trade License copy of parent company
  • Passport copies of authorized signatory

For Branch of a Foreign Company

  • Certificate of Incorporation of parent company
  • MOA/AOA + Board Resolution
  • Parent company’s trade license or certificate of good standing
  • Passport & POA for branch manager

Start Your Company Today with Expert Support!

Get a Free Consultation

Dubai Mainland Company Formation: 8-Step Process 2025

Here’s how RIZ & MONA Consultancy ensures a smooth setup journey:
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Choose Business Activity & License

Select your business activities from DED-approved list and pick the right license type (commercial, professional, or industrial). Our experts help you choose the perfect fit for your business goals.

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 Select Legal Structure

We’ll guide you to choose the optimal business structure – LLC, sole establishment, or civil company – based on your ownership requirements and business model.

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Reserve Your Company Name

We submit your unique business name through Dubai DED portal, ensuring it meets UAE regulations and perfectly represents your brand identity.

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Get Initial Approval

Our team secures preliminary approval from Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, handling all documentation for swift government processing.

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Lease Office & Complete Ejari

We help you rent minimum 200 sq ft commercial office space and complete Ejari registration with Dubai Land Department, finding prime locations for your business.

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Prepare Legal Documents

Our legal team drafts your Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Local Service Agent agreement, ensuring full DED compliance and proper documentation.

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Obtain Trade License

We submit your final application, pay all government fees, and secure your official Dubai mainland trade license through our streamlined process.

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 Open Bank Account & Process Visas

Our specialists handle corporate bank account opening and processing employee visas or investor visas, ensuring you can start operations immediately with full support.

Activities Requiring Special Approvals in Dubai Mainland

Business Sector Approving Authority Examples
Healthcare Services Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Clinics, pharmacies, medical centers
Education & Training Knowledge & Human Development Authority (KHDA) Schools, institutes, training centers
Legal Services Dubai Legal Affairs Department Law firms, legal consultancy
Financial Services Ministry of Economy / UAE Central Bank Auditing, financial advisory, accounting
Food & Beverage Dubai Municipality – Food Safety Dept Restaurants, food trading, catering
Construction & Engineering Dubai Municipality / UAE Engineers Society Contracting, engineering consultancy
Media & Publishing Media Regulatory Office (MRO) Advertising, publishing, media production
IT & Telecommunications TDRA (Telecom & Digital Govt Authority) Software development, telecom services
Security Services Ministry of Interior / SIRA Security companies, surveillance services
Import/Export & Logistics Dubai Customs / DP World Trading, freight forwarding, logistics

What This Means for Your Business Setup?

  • Additional Time Required: Special approval processes may add 2–4 weeks to your Dubai mainland company formation timeline.

  • Extra Documentation: Regulated activities require professional qualifications, experience certificates, and specialized permits beyond standard requirements.

  • Higher Setup Costs: Special approvals typically involve additional government fees ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 25,000+ depending on the activity.

Rizmona Consultancy 15 Years Experience

Why Choose Riz & Mona Consultancy for Your Dubai Mainland Business Setup?

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

10000 Happy Clients Rizmona

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can foreigners own 100% of a Dubai mainland company?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted in most business activities when setting up a business in Dubai mainland following UAE's 2021 commercial law reforms. No local partner or sponsor required for majority of sectors, though some restricted activities may still have special conditions.
The complete business setup in Dubai mainland typically takes 7-15 business days once all documents are prepared and submitted. Timeline depends on business activity complexity, special approvals required, and office lease processing.
Yes, all companies starting a business in Dubai mainland must have a physical commercial office with minimum 200 sq ft space. A valid Ejari (tenancy contract) registration is required for trade license issuance.
Setup costs range from AED 15,000 to AED 35,000 depending on business activity, license type, office location, and number of visas. This includes government fees, documentation, and professional services (excluding office rent).
Not for all activities. Commercial licenses typically don't require LSA with 100% foreign ownership allowed. Professional licenses may need LSA appointment - they act as government liaison without owning shares.
Late renewal results in penalties, license suspension, and potential blacklisting. Annual renewal through Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) is mandatory to maintain active business status.
Yes, ownership changes are possible by amending the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and obtaining DET approval. Partner additions, removals, and shareholding modifications are permitted through official amendment process.
Physical presence is required for key steps like document signing and license collection. However, many preparatory steps can be completed remotely through Power of Attorney arrangements.
VAT registration is mandatory when your business's taxable supplies exceed AED 375,000 annually. Registration must be completed with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) within specified timeframes.
Yes, only Dubai mainland companies are eligible to bid for UAE government tenders, contracts, and public sector projects. Free Zone companies cannot participate in government contracting.
Visa quota depends on your office space size and business activity. Larger offices allow more visas - typically 1 visa per 200-250 sq ft of office space, with flexibility based on business requirements.
While you can manage operations remotely after setting up a business in Dubai mainland, physical presence requirements exist for renewals, banking, and compliance matters. A local representative or PRO service is recommended for ongoing operations.