Mainland Company Formation in Dubai – Complete 2025 Guide

1. Mainland Company Formation in Dubai – Complete 2025 Guide Dubai’s mainland is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for entrepreneurs aiming to tap into the UAE’s local and international markets. Setting up a mainland company in Dubai provides unmatched flexibility, access to government contracts, and unlimited scope of business operations across the UAE. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits, legal structures, step-by-step process, required documents, and costs of mainland company formation in Dubai in 2025. What is a Mainland Company in Dubai?

2. A mainland company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of Dubai. Unlike Free Zone companies, a mainland business can operate across all of the UAE without restrictions, bid for government projects, and expand its branches anywhere in the country. Previously, foreigners were required to have a local Emirati sponsor (with 51% ownership). However, under the updated UAE Commercial Companies Law, 100% foreign ownership is now allowed for most business activities. Benefits of Setting Up a Mainland Company in Dubai ● 100% Foreign Ownership (in most sectors since 2021) ● Access to UAE-wide Market – Trade freely in any emirate ● No Currency Restrictions ● Eligibility to Bid on Government Contracts ● Unlimited Visas (subject to office size) ● Option to Rent Office Space Anywhere in Dubai ● Greater Flexibility for Expansion – Open branches across the UAE ● Tax-Friendly Environment – 0% income tax, 9% corporate tax (above AED 375,000 net profit) Types of Mainland Company Structures 1. Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Most common structure, ideal for trading and services 2. Sole Establishment – Owned by a single individual; suitable for professionals 3. Civil Company – For licensed professionals (doctors, engineers, consultants) 4. Branch of Foreign Company – Extension of a parent company abroad 5. Representative Office – Market research or promotion; cannot trade

3. Steps for Mainland Company Formation in Dubai (2025) 1. Choose Business Activity – Check DED's official activity list 2. Select a Legal Structure – LLC, Sole Establishment, etc. 3. Reserve Trade Name – Submit 2–3 name options to DED 4. Apply for Initial Approval – NOC to proceed with licensing 5. Prepare MOA and LSA Agreement – Required for LLCs and others 6. Secure a Physical Office Space – Must register through Ejari 7. Submit Documents and Pay Fees – At DED or online via DubaiNow portal 8. Receive Trade License – Official incorporation certificate 9. Register for VAT (if annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000) 10. Apply for Visas – For partners, employees, and dependents Timeframe: 7–14 business days if all documents are ready. Documents Required ● Passport copies of shareholders ● UAE entry stamp or visa page (if applicable) ● No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if under employment) ● Emirates ID (if resident) ● Lease agreement (Ejari) ● Memorandum of Association (MOA) ● Initial approval certificate ● Trade name reservation certificate Mainland Business License Types License Description Type

4. Commercial For trading and retail businesses Professional For service providers, consultants, and freelancers Industrial For manufacturing or industrial activities Tourism For travel agencies and tourism activities Some licenses may require external approvals (e.g., DHA, KHDA, RTA, Dubai Municipality). Cost of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai (2025) Expense Type Estimated Cost (AED) Trade License 10,000 – 15,000 Initial Approval 1,000 – 1,500 Name Reservation 620 – 1,000 Office Rent (Ejari) 15,000 – 50,000 MOA Notarization 1,000 – 2,500 Local Service Agent Fee (if required) 5,000 – 10,000 Visa (Investor/Partner) 3,500 – 7,000 per person Total setup cost can range between AED 20,000 to AED 50,000, depending on office size, business activity, and visa requirements. Why Choose a Mainland Setup Over Free Zone?

5. Feature Mainland Free Zone ✅ Allowed ❌ Not directly allowed Trade in UAE Market Office Location Anywhere in Dubai Within Free Zone only Visa Quota Unlimited (based on office) Limited (per package) ✅ Eligible ❌ Not eligible Government Projects Flexibility High Moderate Working with Vista Corporate Group Setting up a mainland company involves documentation, legal approvals, and coordination with multiple government bodies. At Vista Corporate Group, we: ● Offer customized business setup packages ● Handle all DED approvals and translations ● Provide Ejari-compliant office space solutions ● Assist with VAT registration, accounting & visas ● Offer PRO and admin support post-launch Our mission is to make your mainland setup fast, compliant, and hassle-free. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: Can I get 100% ownership of a mainland company in Dubai? Yes, for most professional and commercial activities. Q2: Do I need a local partner? Only for restricted activities. Otherwise, a local service agent (LSA) is sufficient, and they have no control or profit rights.

6. Q3: How long does it take to form a company? Usually between 1–2 weeks if all paperwork is ready. Q4: Is a physical office mandatory? Yes, and the office lease must be registered with Ejari. Q5: Do I need to register for VAT? Only if your turnover exceeds AED 375,000 annually. Start Your Mainland Business in Dubai Today If you want to start a business in Dubai that gives you full access to the UAE market, mainland company formation is your best option in 2025. With new ownership laws, simplified procedures, and unmatched business potential, there's never been a better time. ?Contact Vista Corporate Group today for a free consultation and customized business setup plan that matches your goals. Your Dubai business journey begins here.