What is Dubai Mainland Business Setup?
A Dubai Mainland Business Setup means registering a company that is licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai.
This allows your business to operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally, without restriction to a specific free zone.
In simple words, it’s a business that can trade freely across Dubai, other emirates, and outside the UAE.
Main Authorities Involved in Mainland Business Setup
- Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) / Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Dubai Municipality
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
- Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI)
- Civil Defense & Health Authorities (if applicable)
What is a Free Zone Company?
A Free Zone Company in the UAE is a business established within a designated area (Free Zone) that allows 100% foreign ownership, full profit repatriation, and tax exemptions.
Free zones are designed to encourage international business and investment by offering simplified regulations and lower setup costs.
In simple words:
A Free Zone Company lets you run your business inside a specific zone in the UAE, with full ownership and many tax benefits — but you generally can’t trade directly in the UAE mainland without a local distributor.
Main Authorities Involved in Free Zone Company Setup
- Free Zone Authority (FZA)
- Immigration & Visa Authorities (GDRFA / ICP)
- Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) (in some cases)
What is Offshore Business Setup in Dubai?
An Offshore Business Setup in Dubai allows investors to register a company in the UAE for international operations — without having a physical office or trading directly within the UAE market.
These companies are mainly used for international trade, asset protection, property ownership, or tax optimization.
Main Authorities for Offshore Business Setup in Dubai
- Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (JAFZA Offshore)
- Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC)
- Ajman Offshore (Ajman Free Zone Authority)