Starting a business in the UAE mainland is one of the most rewarding decisions for entrepreneurs, investors and global companies looking to operate in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah or any other Emirate. The UAE remains a top global hub for trade, finance, logistics, tourism, real estate and technology, and its mainland structure offers unparalleled freedom to operate anywhere within the country.
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At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, we help businesses navigate the entire mainland business setup process with precision and clarity. Whether you want to launch a new company, expand internationally, or move your global operations to the UAE, we ensure that every step is smooth, compliant and strategically structured for long-term success.
This article provides a detailed, human-friendly and SEO-rich guide to setting up a UAE mainland business, covering legal requirements, benefits, procedures, required documents and expert insights—so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Understanding Mainland Business Setup in the UAE
Mainland business setup refers to registering a company under the UAE’s Department of Economic Development in each Emirate. A mainland company allows you to operate anywhere across the UAE without geographic restrictions.
Whether in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah or Umm Al Quwain, a mainland license grants you full access to the local market, government contracts and cross-border trading opportunities.
Investors worldwide choose mainland structures because they provide flexibility, higher credibility and strong long-term stability.
Benefits of Setting Up a Mainland Company in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah
1. 100% Foreign Ownership
One of the biggest advantages is that most business sectors in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah now allow 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the previous requirement for a local sponsor.
This gives investors complete control over company decisions, revenue, profit distribution and management.
2. No Location Restrictions
A UAE mainland company can:
- Operate anywhere in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah or any Emirate
- Trade with the local UAE market freely
- Work with government departments and bid for projects
- Expand offices throughout the UAE without additional approvals
This flexibility is why multinational brands prefer mainland structures.
3. Unlimited Business Activities
Compared to free zones, the mainland allows a broader range of activities including:
- Commercial trading
- Industrial activities
- Professional services
- Real estate operations
- E-commerce
- Contracting and construction
- Consulting services
- Tourism and hospitality
- Logistics and transportation
This is ideal for entrepreneurs with diversified business goals.
4. Ability to Work with Government Entities
Mainland companies can take part in government projects across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other Emirates. These projects offer high-value contracts and long-term business opportunities.
5. Flexible Office Requirements
You can choose office spaces anywhere in the UAE. Many business owners start with small spaces or even shared offices to reduce costs initially.
6. Strong Banking and Visa Facilities
Mainland companies enjoy streamlined processes for:
- Corporate bank accounts
- Multi-year leases
- Investor and partner visas
- Employment visas
This supports stable long-term business operations.
Types of Mainland Licenses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
Choosing the right license type is the foundation of a successful mainland setup.
1. Commercial License
For trading activities such as:
- Import-export
- Retail and wholesale
- General trading
- E-commerce
- Automotive trading
This is the most common license in Dubai.
2. Professional License
For service-based businesses including:
- Consultancy firms
- IT services
- Marketing agencies
- Legal services
- Accounting firms
- Real estate brokers
- Medical professionals
A professional license provides full ownership and minimal capital requirements.
3. Industrial License
For manufacturing or industrial activities such as:
- Production factories
- Packaging units
- Food processing
- Assembly units
This requires approval from additional authorities depending on the activity.
Step-by-Step Process for Mainland Business Setup in the UAE
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Your chosen activity determines:
- Required approvals
- Applicable license
- Office space needs
- Visa quotas
At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, we help identify the most suitable activity category to avoid compliance issues.
Step 2: Select a Trade Name
Your business name must follow UAE naming regulations, be unique and reflect your business nature.
Step 3: Submit Initial Approval Application
Initial approval is issued by the Department of Economic Development in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or the respective Emirate. It confirms the government has no objection to your business operations.
Step 4: Draft Legal Documents and Prepare MOA or LSA
Depending on your structure, this may include:
- Memorandum of Association
- Local Service Agent Agreement (if applicable)
- Share distribution documents
Our legal team drafts these accurately to ensure compliance with UAE law.
Step 5: Choose Office Space and Obtain Ejari or Tenancy Contract
The mainland license requires a registered office. Dewey & LeBoeuf assists in selecting and reviewing:
- Virtual offices
- Flexi-desks
- Coworking spaces
- Traditional offices
Step 6: Submit Final Application and Pay Fees
The final step involves submitting all documents and paying government fees for:
- License issuance
- Activity approvals
- Registration
- Chamber of Commerce membership
Step 7: Apply for Investor and Employment Visas
Your new mainland company can sponsor:
- Investor/partner visas
- Employee visas
- Dependent visas
This opens the door to long-term residency in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE.
Costs of Mainland Business Setup in the UAE
The cost varies depending on the Emirate, business activity and office requirements.
Typical cost components include:
- Government fees
- License issuance
- Trade name reservation
- Activity approvals
- Office rent
- Visa fees
- Chamber of Commerce registration
Dubai costs may differ from Abu Dhabi, while Sharjah typically offers more cost-effective options. At Dewey & LeBoeuf, we provide a detailed, transparent cost breakdown tailored to your selected activity and Emirates.
Required Documents for Mainland Company Formation
You will generally need:
- Passport copies of all partners
- Visa or entry stamp copy
- Passport-size photos
- Business activity description
- Ejari or tenancy contract
- Memorandum of Association
- Additional approvals for regulated activities
We prepare and verify all documents to ensure a smooth and fast licensing process.
Key Government Authorities Involved in UAE Mainland Business Setup
Mainland business setup in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and other Emirates involves coordination with different government bodies, each responsible for specific approvals. Understanding these authorities gives you a clearer view of the process.
The Department of Economic Development is the primary authority in each Emirate. Dubai DED, Abu Dhabi DED and Sharjah Economic Development Department issue trade licenses and approve business activities. Depending on your sector, you may also need approvals from the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Health, Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority or the Real Estate Regulatory Agency.
For industrial and manufacturing activities, additional approvals may come from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology or relevant municipal departments. Visa processing is handled through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, while labour approvals come from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP manages all coordination across these bodies, ensuring every approval is properly obtained and that your company complies with UAE laws in all seven Emirates.
Choosing the Right Business Structure for UAE Mainland Company Formation
Selecting the right business structure is one of the most critical decisions when establishing your company in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah. The UAE offers several structures, each suitable for different business models and ownership goals.
Many entrepreneurs choose the Limited Liability Company structure because it allows full foreign ownership in most sectors and offers operational flexibility. For service-based businesses, a Sole Establishment or Civil Company might be more suitable, especially for consulting, education, healthcare or professional services.
Foreign companies expanding into the UAE can choose to set up a branch or representative office. Branch offices allow you to carry out full business activities under your parent company, while representative offices are restricted to promoting your brand.
Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP evaluates your goals, business model and expansion plans to recommend the most strategic structure for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah or any other Emirate, ensuring your operations remain legally strong and future-proof.
Why Choose Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP for UAE Mainland Business Setup
Setting up a mainland business in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah involves multiple legal steps, documentation and compliance procedures. A single mistake can delay or complicate licensing.
Here’s why clients worldwide trust Dewey & LeBoeuf:
- Deep expertise in UAE corporate laws
- Global presence spanning Dubai, the UK, Singapore and Bangladesh
- End-to-end support from licensing to visa processing
- Transparent cost guidance
- Precise drafting of legal documents
- Strong understanding of mainland regulations across all Emirates
Our goal is simple: ensure your UAE business setup is seamless, compliant and strategically structured for growth.
FAQs on Mainland Business Setup in the UAE
What is the difference between mainland and free zone companies in the UAE?
Mainland companies can operate anywhere in the UAE and work with the local market, while free zone companies are restricted to operating within their designated zones unless they appoint local agents.
Can I own 100% of a mainland company in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Most activities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah now allow 100% foreign ownership.
How long does it take to set up a mainland company?
With proper documentation, mainland business setup can take between 3 to 10 working days depending on activity approvals.
Do I need an office space for mainland licensing?
Yes, but this can be a flexi-desk, shared office or traditional office depending on your activity.
Can my company sponsor visas for employees?
Yes. Mainland companies can apply for investor visas, partner visas and employment visas.
Ready to Set Up Your Mainland Company in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah?
If you want expert guidance, legal precision and a clear, hassle-free setup process, our team at Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP is ready to help. We handle everything from the initial planning to licensing, banking, visas and long-term compliance.
Book a consultation today and let Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP guide your mainland business setup in the UAE with confidence, clarity and world-class legal support.
E-mail: info@deweyleboeuf.com
Phone: +971 58 690 9684
Address: 26B Street, Mirdif, Dubai, UAE