Dubai Mainland Business Setup
Price Starting from
AED 14,626*
- Business License
- 100% Ownership
- Company Setup in Just 1-2 Days*
- Minimal Paperwork
- Dubai Investor Visa
- Bank Account Opening Support
Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai
About Dubai Mainland
Dubai Mainland, governed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), offers diverse business opportunities across retail, hospitality, real estate, and finance sectors. Its advanced infrastructure and connectivity make it an attractive hub for global businesses and investors, promoting a dynamic economic environment.
DET supports innovation and entrepreneurship with resources such as business incubators, innovation hubs, and networking opportunities.
The DET Mainland License is particularly appealing due to its flexible regulations, straightforward approval process, and affordable options, making it a preferred choice for many investors seeking efficient business setup and growth.
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Benefits of Dubai Mainland License
Here are the advantages of starting a company in the Dubai Mainland, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs.
100% Company Ownership
Access to Trade With Other Mainland Authorities
Wide Range of Business Activities
Access to Government Contracts & Target Local Clients
Flexibility on Business Location in the UAE
No Currency or Nationality Restrictions
Legal Company Structure Options for DET
Dubai Mainland Business Structures
When you set up your business in Dubai Mainland, you will have a few different legal structures from which to choose. Each legal structure is designed to fit specific business needs and goals.
We'll walk you through your options so you can make the best choice for your business setup in Dubai.
A Sole Proprietorship is a business owned and operated by a single individual. This simple and cost-effective structure makes it a popular choice for small-scale ventures. The owner is responsible for all liabilities sustained by the company; this is suitable for freelancers, consultants, and small business owners.
A popular business structure in Dubai Mainland, especially among expatriates and foreign investors, is the Limited Liability Company (LLC). It allows for limited liability and up to 100% foreign ownership, although certain business activities still require a local sponsor.
Suitable for professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or consultants, this structure requires partners to be responsible for business liabilities. Additionally, non-UAE nationals must involve a local service agent to comply with local regulations.
A branch of an existing local or foreign company that wishes to operate in Dubai Mainland functions as a separate entity while conducting business activities under the name and framework of the parent company.
Choosing the Right Business License
Dubai Mainland License Types
Dubai Mainland offers a dynamic environment for a wide range of business activities, supported by robust infrastructure and a strategic location.
For businesses engaged in trading activities, this allows for selling goods and services.
For service-oriented business industries such as consultancy, accounting, IT, or medical services.
For companies involved in manufacturing or industrial activities, permitting production and processing of goods.
Required Documents
Requirements for Dubai Mainland Business License
Here’s a list of documents you’ll need to set up a business in Dubai Mainland. Keep in mind that the authorities might request additional documents if needed.
Required Documents
Individual Shareholder
- Passport Copy
- Visa Copy
- Latest UAE entry stamp
- Emirates ID Copy (Front and Back)
- Passport Size Photos
- 3 Proposed Company Names (If Applicable)
Required Documents
Corporate Shareholder
- Company Hierarchy Diagram
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Certificate of Incumbency / Good standing
- Share Certificate / Share Registry Certificate
- Passports of the Directors and Shareholders
- Business Plan
- Memorandum of Association and/or Articles of Association
- Board Resolution
How to Start a Mainland Company in Dubai
Steps for Setting Up a Company in Dubai Mainland
Business Setup in Dubai Mainland is designed for efficiency, making it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs looking to thrive in the UAE.
Define Your Legal Type
Trade Name Reservation
Initial Approval
Ejari Application
License Issuance
Frequently Asked Questions
A mainland company is licensed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and can trade directly anywhere in the UAE. It is the structure used by businesses selling to the local market, taking on government contracts, or opening retail premises.
Yes, for most activities. Amendments to the Commercial Companies Law removed the general requirement for a 51% Emirati shareholder across the majority of commercial and industrial activities. A defined list of strategic-impact activities remains subject to Emirati participation.
Yes. Mainland licensing requires premises with a tenancy contract registered through Ejari, and the space is inspected against the activity you are licensed for. Some professional activities can be run from smaller or shared arrangements where the authority permits it.
A commercial licence covers trading in goods, and a professional licence covers services delivered on the basis of expertise. The distinction determines your permitted activities, your approvals, and in some cases your ownership structure, so it should be settled before the trade name is reserved.
Yes. A mainland licence permits trade across all seven emirates and with government entities, without the distributor or branch arrangements a free zone company may need. Activities that are separately regulated still require their own sector approvals.
Longer than a typical free zone setup, because more parties are involved. Trade name reservation, initial approval, tenancy registration and any external approvals each add time, and regulated activities such as healthcare, education or financial services take longest.