Establishing Your Business in Dubai Mainland: Unlock New Opportunities
Setting up a company in Dubai Mainland offers businesses unmatched flexibility and access to a dynamic market. Dubai Mainland, governed by the Department of Economic Development (DED), allows businesses to operate without the limitations that free zones impose, providing an ideal environment for local and international trade.
Choose Dubai Mainland for Your Business?
Choosing Dubai Mainland for your business setup offers several strategic advantages. With recent amendments allowing full foreign ownership in many sectors, businesses can operate with greater autonomy and flexibility. Dubai Mainland provides complete market access, enabling companies to trade locally and internationally without restrictions. The region’s strategic location, combined with its state-of-the-art infrastructure, positions Dubai as a global business hub. Additionally, businesses can benefit from an unlimited number of visas based on their office space, making it easier to scale operations and attract talent.
Don’t hasitate to contact with us for inquries!
- Choose Your Business Activity: Identify the business activities you wish to undertake, ensuring they align with the DED's approved list.
- Select a Business Structure: Decide on the legal structure of your business, such as an LLC (Limited Liability Company), Sole Proprietorship, or Branch of a Foreign Company.
- Reserve a Trade Name: Choose a unique trade name that complies with the UAE's naming conventions and register it with the DED.
- Initial Approval: Obtain initial approval from the DED, which confirms that your business activities and trade name are acceptable.
- Draft Memorandum of Association (MOA): Prepare and notarize the MOA, detailing the ownership structure and operations of your company.
- Lease Office Space: Secure an office space that meets the DED's minimum requirements and obtain a tenancy contract and Ejari (lease registration).
- Submit Documentation: Submit all required documents, including the initial approval, MOA, tenancy contract, and relevant identification documents to the DED.
- Pay Fees and Obtain License: Pay the applicable fees and collect your trade license from the DED, officially establishing your company.
- Register with Authorities: Complete registrations with the Ministry of Labor and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs to process employee visas.
- No Trade Restrictions: Engage in business activities throughout the UAE without geographic limitations.
- Access to Government Contracts: Participate in lucrative government tenders and contracts.
- Enhanced Credibility: Operating in the Mainland can enhance your business credibility and trust with clients and partners.
- Investment Incentives: Benefit from various government incentives aimed at fostering business growth and innovation.
- Compliance with Regulations: Ensure full compliance with local regulations, including maintaining proper accounting records and renewing licenses annually.
- Office Space Requirements: Your office space should meet the DED's criteria, influencing the number of visas your company can sponsor.
- Local Sponsorship: For certain business activities, a local sponsor owning 51% of the company shares may still be required, although many sectors now allow 100% foreign ownership.
Your Company Setup in Dubai Mainland
These FAQs should provide a clear understanding of the process and benefits of setting up a company in Dubai Mainland. If you have more specific questions or need detailed assistance, it’s advisable to consult with a business setup expert or legal advisor in Dubai.
To set up a company in Dubai Mainland, you need to:
- Choose a business activity and legal structure.
- Reserve a trade name.
- Obtain initial and external approvals if required.
- Prepare and sign the Memorandum of Association (MOA).
- Secure a physical office space.
- Apply for the necessary licenses and visas.
- Complete the registration with the Department of Economic Development (DED).
Dubai Mainland supports various business structures including:
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
- Sole Proprietorships
- Branches of Foreign Companies
- Professional Firms
- Private Joint Stock Companies.
Dubai Mainland offers several benefits including:
- 100% foreign ownership (as of recent changes).
- No personal or corporate income taxes.
- Ability to trade directly within the UAE market and internationally.
- No restrictions on the number of visas.
- Access to a diverse and growing economy with a strategic geographic location.
Costs can vary based on business activity and size but typically include:
- Trade name reservation and initial approval fees.
- License fees (commercial, professional, or industrial).
- Office rental costs.
- Visa and immigration fees.
- Additional costs for external approvals if necessary.
The process can take from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the business and the completeness of the required documentation. Generally, it involves:
- Initial document preparation and approvals (1-5 days).
- MOA signing and license issuance (6-8 days).
- Immigration and visa processes (9-15 days).
Yes, it's possible to transition from a Free Zone to a Mainland company. This involves cancelling the Free Zone license and obtaining a new Mainland license, meeting all the Mainland requirements such as having a physical office space and potentially partnering with a local sponsor for certain types of businesses.
Setting up a company in Dubai Mainland offers extensive opportunities for business growth and market expansion. With the UAE’s favorable business environment, strategic location, and modern infrastructure, your company can thrive locally and internationally. Whether you aim to tap into the local market or use Dubai as a base for global operations, the benefits of establishing a Mainland company are substantial.
Ready to take the first step?
Contact us today for expert guidance and tailored solutions for setting up your Mainland company in Dubai. Our experienced team will assist you through each step, ensuring a smooth and efficient business setup process. Unlock the potential of your business in one of the world’s most vibrant economic landscapes.
Head office address:
Call for Assistance:
Mail for information:
ask@docunexa.ae
