The emirate of Dubai, which is an emirate of the U.A.E has emerged on the global business scene as a business hub because of its strategic location, business-friendly environment and state-of-the-art infrastructure thus making it an ideal destination for various business setups. Dubai offers various benefits to a wide range of industries ranging from tax benefits of free zones to the broad market reach of Dubai mainland business setups. In addition to this Dubai attracts skilled workforce and professionals from across the globe, making it easier for businesses to hire talented employees locally. Dubai is the world’s gateway to the Middle East, Africa and Asia and as a result a business in Dubai has easy access to global markets. Entrepreneurs wishing to set up a business in Dubai should carefully evaluate their business model, target market and long-term goals to choose the most suitable business structure that aligns with their vision for success in this dynamic city.
Some of the main businesses that an investor can establish under a mainland license include businesses like trading, hospitality, restaurants, professional services and industrial ventures etc. In trading, businesses like retail clothing and accessory stores or electronics shops etc benefit from Dubai’s thriving commercial markets, where as businesses in the sector of hospitality and restaurant thrive on the tourist industry of Dubai as well as the diverse population of the emirate. Professional services like consultancy firms, legal services and marketing agencies etc are required by all the business setups in UAE, while the diverse economy of Dubai provides huge incentives to promotors of industries such as manufacturing and logistics.

Mainland Business Setup

The process of any business setup and company registration in Dubai involves an understanding of the legal requirements, business structures and local regulations. Dubai offers different business structures, all with different advantages to an investor. It is upon the investor to decide which business structure suits his business plan the best and in doing so advise of a reputed consultant like ‘GrowBiz’ is of utmost importance. In Dubai one of the most common business structures is the Limited Liability Company (LLC), where a foreign investor can hold 100 % ownership of the company.
Being a part of the mainland business community lets companies connect and work together with other local businesses, opening avenues locally for partnerships and potential business chances. A Dubai mainland business setup allows businesses to operate across the entire country instead of being confined to a specific free zone. Entrepreneurs who wish to setup a Dubai mainland business don’t need a local sponsor in a Limited Liability Company (LLC) as was previously required.
The investors should keep in mind that a Dubai mainland business setup requires more documentation than a free zone or an offshore company because of local regulations and laws, and that an offshore company can also fulfil the necessary requirements and acquire a mainland company license, which would permit it to operate within the mainland jurisdiction in Dubai. Involving a business consultant in the formation of a Dubai mainland business setup ensures getting all the necessary licenses and documentation smoothly, and enables the business entity to form a mainland company hassle-free.
The Department of Economic Development (DED) oversees mainland business registrations, and an entrepreneur has various options for forming a mainland company in Dubai. A Dubai mainland business setup can be registered as one of the following:

  • Limited Liability Company
  • Civil Company
  • Sole Establishment
  • Subsidiary Company
  • Branch Office Setup
  • Branch Office of Foreign Company
  • Branch Office of Local Company

The Key Benefits of a Mainland Business Setup:

A Dubai mainland business setup enjoys the advantage of being able to participate in lucrative government contracts and jobs as mainland entities, which opens for them avenues to generate revenue and business prospects at the local level. Local businesses have a view of mainland companies as being more trustworthy and accessible to them thus enabling a mainland business entity to create business connections and collaborations easily. Mainland companies have the freedom to participate in various business activities without limitations, thus opening up a wide range of business operations and opportunities. A Dubai mainland business setup has the freedom to select its own office location based on its specific business requirements anywhere in mainland Dubai, this allows it to strategically position itself in areas that are best suited for its operations. For those seeking a broader market reach within the UAE, establishing a mainland company is a viable option, the benefits of a Dubai mainland business setup are immensely beneficial for an entrepreneur as they open up new opportunities for the business. The Dubai Economic Department (DED) is a one-stop destination for an investor who wishes to establish a Dubai mainland business setup, as all the paperwork and licenses are handled by DED making the setup process seamless and smooth for the investor.
The Dubai government has implemented business-friendly laws and taxation policies to help entrepreneurs flourish in Dubai. Setting up a mainland company in Dubai has lots of perks and opportunities for businesses. The strategic location of Dubai enables businesses established in Dubai easy access to regional and international markets thus helping businesses in global expansion and sustainable growth. Additionally, the diverse business community within Dubai (UAE) helps investors and businesses in networking and business collaborations. It is recommended for an investor to do a thorough research on the regulations for Dubai mainland business setup before starting a setup process so as to ensure compliance with legal requirements. This research may include understanding licensing procedures, activities permitted in a mainland company and ownership regulations. Additionally steps like financial planning, transparent communication with the authorities, adherence to timelines and engaging a reputed consultant familiar with Dubai mainland business setup will help investors in a seamless business setup

FAQs

Dubai mainland refers to areas in Dubai that are not designated as free  zones. Businesses established on the mainland can operate within the local UAE market without any geographical restrictions.
  • Mainland businesses can trade freely within the UAE market.
  • There are no restrictions on the number of visas that can be obtained which allows for easier recruitment.
  • Mainland businesses can engage in various business activities without limitations related to the type of business.
  • To obtain a commercial license from the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai is necessary for most business activities.
  • A Dubai mainland company requires more documentation than other business structures.
  • Determine the type of business activity suitable for your company.
  • Submit the necessary documents to the DED to obtain initial approvals.
  • Secure a physical office space as per DED requirements.
  • Apply for the necessary approvals, permits and licenses from relevant authorities.
    • While Dubai mainland offers a wide range of business activities, certain activities such as banking, insurance etc. require specific approvals from regulatory bodies.