Dubai’s mainland business framework provides entrepreneurs and investors with unrestricted access to the UAE market, full operational flexibility, and a globally recognized legal environment. With expert guidance, establishing a mainland company licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET, formerly DED) is a clear, compliant, and scalable process. This structure is particularly suited for businesses aiming to operate across the Emirates, serve UAE-based clients, and engage in government or large-scale commercial projects.

Why choose a mainland company?

A mainland company in Dubai is a business entity registered under the DET that is authorized to operate freely both within the UAE and internationally. Unlike Free Zone entities, mainland companies face no restrictions on selling products or services directly to the local market, including individuals, corporate clients, and government bodies.

Mainland companies are permitted to carry out a wider range of commercial and professional activities and can participate in public-sector tenders and government contracts. They are not confined to a specific geographic area and may open multiple branches across the UAE, making them an excellent choice for businesses planning expansion, physical presence, or larger local teams.

While Free Zones often offer simpler and lower-cost entry, they typically restrict direct trading within the UAE unless a local distributor is appointed. Mainland companies, in contrast, provide full access to the UAE economy along with greater flexibility in scaling, staffing, and operational reach.

Can foreigners set up a mainland company in Dubai?

Yes, foreign nationals are legally permitted to establish and, in many cases, fully own mainland companies in Dubai. Since 2021, UAE regulations have enabled 100% foreign ownership for a broad range of commercial and professional activities. Where a local partner is still required for specific activities, Bridge Emirates provides secure nominee partner arrangements that preserve full financial and operational control for the foreign owner.

Physical residency in Dubai is not mandatory to register a mainland company. Many business owners manage their UAE operations remotely while relying on local administrative and compliance support. However, obtaining UAE residency through a mainland company significantly simplifies banking, leasing, and long-term business planning.

Mainland company ownership also provides a direct route to UAE residency. With a valid DET license, business owners can apply for an investor visa, sponsor family members, rent property, open bank accounts, and obtain a UAE driving license, making it one of the most practical residency-by-investment options in the region.

How to start a mainland company in Dubai

The process begins with selecting a business activity from over 2,000 options approved by the DET. Once the activity is confirmed, the trade name is reserved, and all legal documentation is prepared for initial approval. Mainland companies are required to lease a physical office space supported by an Ejari-registered tenancy contract.

Following office confirmation, the trade license is issued, and the company is registered with immigration and labor authorities. Residency visa processing then begins for owners and employees, including entry permits, medical examinations, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping.

From initial consultation to a fully operational company with a valid license and residency visa, the process typically takes between 10 and 14 working days, depending on the activity and complexity. Bridge Emirates manages the entire procedure, including documentation, translations, and government submissions.

Types of mainland company formation in Dubai

Mainland companies registered under the DET can operate throughout the UAE without geographic limitations. Depending on the activity and ownership structure, several formation options are available.

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most common structure for trading and commercial operations, offering limited liability and allowing multiple shareholders. Many LLCs now qualify for full foreign ownership depending on the activity.

A Sole Establishment, often issued under a professional license, is suitable for individual professionals such as consultants, IT specialists, marketers, and designers, and frequently allows 100% foreign ownership.

Civil Companies are designed for partnerships between licensed professionals, including engineers, accountants, and healthcare practitioners, with shared ownership and responsibility.

A Branch of a Foreign Company allows an existing international business to establish a presence in Dubai without creating a separate legal entity, provided it performs the same activity as the parent company.

A Representative Office enables foreign companies to market and promote their parent organization in Dubai without engaging in revenue-generating activities.

Documents required for mainland company formation in Dubai

Required documentation varies based on the activity and structure, but generally includes passport copies of shareholders and managers, visa copies or entry stamps if applicable, Emirates ID for residents, passport-sized photographs, and a No Objection Certificate when required.

Additional documents include trade name reservation and initial approval certificates, an Ejari-registered tenancy contract, the Memorandum of Association, and a Power of Attorney if applicable. Certain activities may require external approvals from authorities such as KHDA or DHA. Bridge Emirates prepares and reviews all documentation to ensure full regulatory compliance.

How much does it cost to set up a mainland company in Dubai?

Costs depend on the business activity, number of visas, and office size. A basic mainland company setup with one investor visa typically starts from approximately AED 15,000. Additional expenses may include office leasing, health insurance, medical tests, Emirates ID, and visa processing.

While Free Zones may appear more cost-effective initially, mainland companies often deliver greater long-term value for businesses intending to scale, hire locally, or engage in complex commercial activities. We provide transparent pricing and tailored quotations based on individual requirements.

Benefits of setting up a company in mainland Dubai

Mainland companies enjoy direct access to the UAE domestic market, enabling them to sell products and services to residents, corporations, and government entities. This is essential for sectors such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, construction, logistics, and professional services.

They offer flexible employment options, allowing multiple visas based on office size and business needs, and support long-term scalability. From a tax perspective, Dubai remains highly competitive, with 0% personal income tax, no capital gains or dividend tax, and corporate tax applied only above AED 375,000 in annual profits at a rate of 9%.

Additional advantages include unrestricted business location, eligibility for government contracts, enhanced credibility, access to prime commercial spaces, fewer operational limitations compared to Free Zones, and a clear pathway to UAE residency for owners and employees.

Ejari – office space requirements

Mainland companies must lease a physical office and obtain Ejari registration, which is required to finalize the trade license and process visas. Office options range from flexi-desks and shared spaces to private offices, depending on the activity and company size.

We assist clients in securing compliant office solutions through our network of business centers, coworking spaces, and commercial landlords across Dubai. Ejari registration is also required for utilities, internet services, and bank account verification, all of which we help coordinate to avoid delays.

Visa and sponsorship management

With a DET license, business owners are eligible for an Investor or Partner Visa, typically valid for two years and renewable. This visa allows sponsorship of family members and supports access to banking, housing, and essential services. Companies may also sponsor employee visas based on office size and activity type.

Where a local sponsor is required, we provide legally secure nominee arrangements that protect the client’s interests under UAE law. We also advise on employment structures, NOC requirements, and compliant multi-entity working arrangements where applicable.

Services we offer

Our services include DET licensing and activity consultation, trade name reservation, office and Ejari support, residency visa processing for owners and staff, nominee partner arrangements when required, corporate banking assistance, VAT registration, accounting support, and ongoing PRO and renewal services.

We offer both standardized packages and fully customized solutions, supporting businesses from small consultancies to multi-branch enterprises across diverse industries.

Ready to launch your mainland company?

Let us manage the regulatory and administrative process while you focus on building your business. Dubai offers one of the most dynamic and entrepreneur-friendly environments globally, and with the right structure in place, your business is positioned for long-term success.