Unlock full access to the UAE market, government contracts, and flexible commercial opportunities with our Mainland Company Setup in Dubai. Universus Consulting handles every step of your journey, from licensing to launch.
Advantage
100% Access to Local UAE Market
No trading restrictions within the UAE, allowing unlimited business with local clients and companies.
Eligibility for Government Contracts
Only mainland companies can bid for lucrative government and semi-government tenders.
Flexibility in Office Location & Business Activities
Choose from a wide range of activities and operate anywhere in Dubai or the UAE.
Visa Eligibility and Expansion Freedom
Sponsor employee visas and expand branches across other emirates as your business grows.
Our Process
We help you choose the right business activity from the Department of Economic Development (DED) list.
We will secure a unique, DED-compliant trade name that reflects your brand and business for Dubai.
We handle DED approvals, local sponsor agreements if necessary, and all the other legal formalities.
We provide expert guidance on choosing between physical and virtual office space tailored to your business needs.
Once your mainland business license is issued, we'll assist with immigration cards, visa applications, and bank setup.
A Mainland Company is an onshore entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai. It allows businesses to operate anywhere in the UAE and engage with government contracts, unlike Freezone or Offshore companies which have restrictions.
Here is why the Mainland has always been attractive to business:
Yes. As per recent changes in UAE commercial law, foreign investors can now own 100% of many types of Mainland businesses without requiring a local sponsor, depending on the nature of the business activity.
Typically, it takes 5–10 working days to complete the mainland company formation process, provided all documents are in order and necessary approvals are received on time.
The process for mainland business setup in Dubai starts with selecting your business activity and legal structure (e.g., LLC), reserving a trade name with the DED, obtaining initial approvals, drafting a Memorandum of Association, securing office space, and applying for licenses and visas. Final registration involves notarization and submission to the DED.
Mainland business setup in Dubai requires licenses from the DED, including commercial (for trading), professional (for services like consulting), industrial (for manufacturing), or tourism (for hospitality). The type depends on your activity, and additional approvals from ministries may be needed for regulated sectors like healthcare or education.
For mainland business setup in Dubai, investors can obtain investor visas, while employees need employment visas sponsored by the company. Requirements include a valid passport, medical fitness certificate, Emirates ID, and proof of office space; the company must be registered with the DED to issue up to a quota-based number of visas, often starting with 1-3 for small setups.
Yes, converting a free zone business to mainland setup in Dubai is possible by applying for a transfer through the DED, which involves closing the free zone entity, obtaining new approvals, and potentially appointing a local sponsor if required. This allows expansion into the local market but may incur additional costs and require reapplying for licenses.
Common challenges in mainland business setup in Dubai include navigating local sponsorship arrangements (if applicable), securing affordable office space compliant with ejari regulations, and complying with Emiratization rules requiring UAE national hires. Language barriers and bureaucratic processes can also arise, but engaging a local PRO (Public Relations Officer) often helps mitigate these issues.
Blog Insight
Mainland Business Setup in the UAE refers to establishing a company under the jurisdiction of the Department of Economic Development (DED) in any emirate, allowing businesses to operate freely within the UAE market and internationally without the restrictions of a free zone. It offers 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, flexible office locations, and the ability to bid for government contracts, making it ideal for businesses targeting the UAE’s domestic market. With access to prime locations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates, mainland companies benefit from a robust legal framework and proximity to clients and suppliers.
Mainland licenses are typically issued for one year and renewed annually through the DED, requiring a valid tenancy contract, compliance with activity regulations, and payment of renewal fees. Online portals simplify renewals, amendments, and visa updates, ensuring seamless operations.
By choosing the right activities, securing a cost-effective office solution, and aligning with DED regulations, mainland business setup offers unmatched flexibility and market reach for entrepreneurs targeting the UAE’s dynamic economy.
