Mainland UAE companies offer a unique combination of market access, operational freedom, and legal credibility. As regulatory reforms continue to align the UAE with global transparency standards, Mainland entities remain the preferred option for those seeking to engage in the local economy with full legal rights and strategic flexibility.
With sweeping reforms introduced in recent years, most commercial and professional business activities now qualify for full foreign ownership. Investors no longer require a UAE national partner for the majority of licenses — offering control, freedom, and peace of mind from day one.
Mainland companies are licensed to operate across all seven emirates, without geographical or client-type restrictions. Whether you’re targeting consumers, businesses, or government contracts — you’re free to trade across industries and borders within the UAE.
Mainland companies are the only type of entities eligible to bid on government tenders. In 2023 alone, the UAE allocated over AED 17.5 billion to infrastructure, education, and public projects — including AED 4+ billion on public works. As a licensed Mainland firm, you gain access to these lucrative opportunities.
Unlike Free Zone companies, which are geographically limited, Mainland businesses can open and operate multiple branch offices anywhere in the country — from major metros to remote emirates.
Mainland businesses can establish operations wherever strategic — near seaports, airports, industrial zones, or central business districts. You’re not restricted by zone-based rules, clustering requirements, or location mandates.
With over 2,000+ approved activities under the DED, Mainland companies enjoy the widest operational scope. Expanding into new verticals? You don’t need to form a new company — simply update your license with the new activity. DSA handles the full process without interrupting your existing operations.
Mainland companies can apply for investor, partner, and employee visas under scalable quotas — including long-term Golden Visas for qualified shareholders and senior professionals. Visa allocations are tied to your office size, business model, and operational needs — not capped by zone rules.
There are no restrictions on moving your earnings abroad. Mainland companies can repatriate 100% of their profits and capital without withholding taxes or remittance barriers.
Mainland businesses hold higher credibility among UAE-based clients, banks, and government bodies — especially in regulated sectors like legal, medical, engineering, and consulting. If your clientele is local or regulatory-heavy, a Mainland license signals trust.
Unlike Free Zone entities, which cannot contract directly with UAE ministries or authorities, Mainland companies are eligible to work with government and semi-government bodies across all sectors.
SPC is the world’s first free zone for publishers and remains a hub for content creation. Activities include book publishing, printing, digital platforms, film, media production, and advertising agencies. Its strong ecosystem makes it ideal for creative ventures.
Licenses cover management, HR, IT, marketing, and training consultancy. These businesses operate flexibly with minimal infrastructure and optional office solutions. SPC is especially attractive for solo consultants and boutique firms.
SPC permits import, export, wholesale, retail, and online trade. Investors can use general trading or e-commerce licenses to diversify products and reach global customers. Its location supports smooth logistics and international growth.
From software development to cybersecurity, SPC supports a wide range of IT businesses. Digital setup and virtual operations make it cost-efficient for startups and scalable for established firms. It is a strong base for the UAE’s digital economy.
SPC hosts design studios, marketing agencies, training providers, and wellness businesses. Education, R&D, and niche creative activities are also supported. The flexibility allows entrepreneurs to innovate across multiple sectors.
This is the most widely used and versatile legal structure in the UAE. It allows between 1 to 50 shareholders, with liability limited to the capital invested in the business. In most activities, 100% foreign ownership is now permitted. An LLC can operate throughout the UAE, engage in both B2C and B2B transactions, and is eligible to apply for unlimited employee visas.
It is commonly used by individual professionals such as consultants, IT specialists, and freelancers with full control and personally liable for the company’s obligations. Sole Establishments are subject to nationality restrictions – typically limited to UAE and GCC nationals, although some Free Zones allow expat ownership under certain conditions.
Tailored for licensed professionals working in partnership. Civil Companies allow 100% foreign ownership in many emirates and are governed by UAE Civil Law. If the partners are foreign nationals operating on the Mainland, they may be required to appoint a UAE-based Local Service Agent (who holds no shares or managerial role).
Allows an existing international company to expand into the UAE without incorporating a new legal entity. The branch is considered an extension of the parent company carrying out the same activities with 100% foreign ownership but requires the appointment of a UAE National Service Agent for Mainland operations.
A Representative Office is a non-commercial structure used for market research, promotion, or liaison functions. It cannot conduct revenue-generating business or sign contracts in the UAE. While it offers a low-risk entry point, it is limited in scope and also requires a National Service Agent for registration.
education, healthcare, tourism, IT, media
7. Final License Issuance
Once your documentation, approvals, and office lease are finalized, the DED issues your Mainland trade license.
Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA) simplifies every step of your UAE business formation journey from initial planning to long-term operational support. We’re not just consultants; we’re your on-ground execution partners with deep expertise in UAE legal, regulatory, and commercial frameworks.
At Dubai Setup Advisors (DSA), we go beyond basic company registration. We provide strategic guidance, legal clarity, and operational support tailored for global entrepreneurs and investors entering the UAE market. Here’s why clients from over 30 countries trust us to build their presence in the Emirates.
A Mainland company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of a specific emirate, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. It is permitted to operate anywhere within the UAE and engage in both private and government sector work. Unlike Free Zone entities, Mainland companies are not geographically restricted and can open branches across the Emirates.
Yes. Under recent UAE regulations, 100% foreign ownership is permitted for most commercial and professional activities within the Mainland. Some strategically sensitive sectors may still require local participation or special approvals, which DSA advises on during your setup process.
Mainland companies offer full access to the UAE market, eligibility for government contracts, no restrictions on office location or client type, and the ability to sponsor unlimited employees based on operational space. They are the preferred structure for companies planning local expansion, on-site delivery of services, or multi-emirate trading.
With the correct documentation and approvals, most Mainland company setups can be completed in 7 to 15 business days. Timelines may vary depending on the business activity, external approvals, and the selected emirate.
In most cases, there is no minimum capital requirement that must be deposited during incorporation. However, certain activities — such as banking, insurance, or industrial manufacturing — may require a capital declaration or proof of investment. DSA ensures this is fully compliant with the DED’s current guidelines.
Yes, a physical office is mandatory for all Mainland companies. This can range from a flexi-desk (co-working setup) to a full commercial unit. The type and size of office you choose may affect your visa quota. DSA helps you choose a compliant office solution that meets your business model, licensing requirements, and operational budget.
Mainland companies can be licensed for over 2,000 activities, including general trading, professional services, contracting, consultancy, healthcare, education, manufacturing, logistics, and media. Some activities may require additional approvals from relevant government ministries.
Yes. Investors and shareholders of Mainland companies are eligible to apply for UAE residence visas. The company can also sponsor employees, dependents, and domestic staff based on its license and office size.
Mainland entities must renew their trade license annually and ensure compliance with federal regulations, including:
DSA provides full post-setup compliance support.
The process includes selecting a business activity, choosing a legal structure, reserving a trade name, obtaining initial approval from the DED, drafting legal documents (such as the MoA), securing office space, receiving the trade license, processing visas, and registering for tax and compliance. DSA manages each step from start to finish.
There is no direct legal conversion between Free Zone and Mainland structures. However, DSA can guide you through establishing a new Mainland entity and transitioning your operations, including corporate asset transfers, client agreements, and license restructuring.
We provide end-to-end advisory and execution services, including:
Our approach is regulatory-first, strategically aligned, and globally trusted.