Set Up Your Company in

Dubai Mainland

A Dubai Mainland license is the key to unlocking opportunities for businesses to thrive in Dubai and the wider UAE. Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), this license grants companies the freedom to operate anywhere within the region without geographical constraints. With a Mainland license, businesses can access the bustling local markets directly, benefit from unrestricted currency transactions, and have the flexibility to obtain visas for their workforce as needed.

This license also enables companies to bid for government contracts and participate in public tenders, providing additional avenues for growth and expansion. Overall, obtaining a Dubai Mainland license is a strategic move for businesses seeking to establish a strong presence in one of the world’s most dynamic business environments.

Advantages of a Dubai Mainland License

To get a company registered in Dubai, having a physical office space is not mandatory; I-biz Consultant’s co-working DED package would be the perfect solution to get you started.

  • Allows for 100% foreign ownership
  • Ability to conduct business anywhere in the UAE
  • Own and rent office spaces within Dubai mainland
  • Do business with government entities
  • Fewer nationality restrictions for obtaining a trade license
  • Easier to open bank accounts, especially with traditional banks
  • Scalability of a business is much easier by adding more visas to the trade license

Freedom to Operate Anywhere

Having no limitations on where you can conduct business is one of the strongest reasons for getting a Dubai Mainland License. UAE mainland companies are allowed to do trade and business within the nation, in any free zones, and outside the country.

Stronger Market Presence

Getting a DED Mainland License gives you the opportunity to open your physical company anywhere in the UAE. This creates a stronger presence, and the freedom and flexibility to expand your company’s branches across the UAE.

Ability to Work with Government Bodies

Companies with Mainland Licenses are allowed to work with government contracts. The UAE government frequently needs specialised contractors for multi-million projects, giving you the opportunity to bid on high-risk, high-return projects.

No Currency Restrictions

There are no currency restrictions under the Dubai Mainland License. Companies are entitled to fully repatriate offshore or onshore bank accounts in the UAE.

No Visa Limitations

UAE mainland companies do not have any restrictions when it comes to expanding their visa quotas under a business license. An additional physical space would be required after a certain point, but it is much easier to scale the business.

Financial Viability

Companies with a Dubai Mainland License enjoy the benefits that Free Zone license companies have. This includes exclusion in paying taxes. It is also very important to note that no minimum capital requirement is required in setting up a company under a Dubai Mainland License.

Business Activities Under Dubai Mainland License

Dubai is considered to be one of the most sought-after business destinations across the world. The ease of setting up a business that comes with numerous lucrative benefits is the primary reason for the continuous influx of investors and entrepreneurs in the UAE.

With diverse options of activities to choose from, Creative Zone will help you choose the best-suited type of activities for your company.

Business Structures Under Dubai Mainland License

When obtaining a Dubai Mainland license, businesses can choose from several legal structures, each suited to different types of ventures and ownership preferences. Here are the primary business structures available under a Dubai Mainland license:

Steps in Setting Up Your Business Under a Dubai Mainland License

By approaching I Biz Consultants, you can be well assured that we will successfully set up your business under a Dubai Mainland license and you can take advantage of the opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic business environments.
  • Choose Your Business Activity and Structure

    The first and most important thing to do before setting up a company in Dubai is to choose the right category and nature where your business activity falls. You can choose from over 1,500 business activities in the UAE. Dubai’s Department of Economic Development (DED) is the Governing body that regulates all the legal activities of businesses in Dubai.

  • Register Your Company’s Name with DED

    Choose a unique name for your company. Ensure that the chosen name does not match any other companies in Dubai. Once you have selected a name and received approval, register it with the DED. Typically, the registration process takes around three days.

  • Apply for Mainland Trade License

    After registering your company name, it’s now time to apply for your mainland trade license. There are a few commercial activities that are not permissible according to the DED law. DED is the accountable body to decide, regulate, classify, permit, and license all economic activities. Several documents are required as part of a trade license application. Creative Zone can assist you with this.

  • Get an Office Space or Coworking Space

    In the UAE, office spaces are usually owned by third parties. The packages and inclusions can be customised depending on your needs. It is essential to note that the tenancy agreement, Real Estate Regulation Authority (RERA) documents, and EJARI need to be submitted, following with the initial approval that is granted by the DED. An office space is often not mandatory and Creative Zone provides options of coworking spaces which is much more cost-effective.

  • Prepare the Necessary Documents Like Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Article of Association (AoA)

    The Memorandum of Association (MoA) is one of the most important documents in setting up a company in Dubai. This document states the information on share of limitations and liberty every partner has within the company. This document should be drafted carefully. The legal experts from Creative Zone can help you in preparing this document.

  • Pay Fees and Collect the License

    After completing documentation and approvals, pay fees and collect your business license, marking official recognition and allowing legal operation in Dubai mainland.

  • Open Your Business Bank Account

    After obtaining the trade license, the next step is to open a corporate bank account. Modern digital banking has streamlined this process, often taking only a few days. Our team of banking experts will assist you throughout the process.