Mainland Business setup in Dubai, UAE

Mainland Business Setup in Dubai, UAE

If you’re looking to establish a strong and unrestricted presence in the UAE market, choosing a mainland business setup Dubai, UAE is the ideal path forward. Unlike free zones, which often restrict direct trade within the local market, a Dubai mainland license offers full flexibility to operate across all Emirates. This allows your business to trade locally, open multiple branches under one license, and compete for lucrative government contracts — making it a strategic option for entrepreneurs and companies focused on long-term growth in the UAE.

At Almalia Consulting FZCO we offer a complete Mainland business setup in Dubai, UAE tailored specifically for mainland company formation. Thus, From initial consultations and selecting the right business activity to handling trade name reservations, DED approvals, MOA drafting, and visa processing — we take care of the entire process on your behalf. Although, Our goal is to make your mainland setup smooth, fast, and fully compliant with all regulatory requirements, so you can focus on launching, operating, and scaling your business with confidence.

Why would you want to choose Mainland for Business setup in Dubai, UAE?

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai is easy and easier with an experienced company formation expert in Dubai such as Adam Global
Possibility of 100% foreign ownership unless a special exemption applies to restrict them. Before the new amendment in the UAE CCL (Decree Law No. 26 of 2020), the ex-pat business owners were only allowed to own a maximum of 49% ownership of their business
Appointment of a local service agent is no longer mandatory to register professional licences, branches of foreign companies or free zone establishments and sole proprietorship companies
The mainland licence holder is free to work with the UAE mainland companies, locally-based customers and/or governmental bodies. The latter surely improves your business reputation and status, both in the country and internationally
There are no restrictions on the location of commercial premises provided it is located onshore and in the respective emirate from where the licence is dispensed
The Dubai mainland business licence enables the licencee to trade internationally and expand their presence worldwide
With a Mainland business licence in Dubai, you can grow your team by applying for unlimited visas, provided you have the required warehouse or office space, which is generally 100 square feet per visa. But the best part is – you can negotiate with the Dubai DED on the requirement to rent extra office space by hiring remote workers
A Dubai DED licence is the best bet if branch expansion is a key goal of your start-up as it gives you the freedom to expand your business’ branches to other parts of Dubai and across the UAE
A Dubai onshore setup offers significantly more scope for your business to evolve
With a Dubai mainland licence the administrative process is smoother, faster, and less restrictive compared to free zone counterparts

Documents Required for Business setup Dubai, UAE

1. Passport copies of all shareholders and appointed managers – These are required to verify identity and ownership during the application process.

2. UAE residence visa or Emirates ID copies – (if the individuals are already residing in the UAE)
This helps determine visa eligibility and residency status for business registration.

3. Proposed business activity and multiple trade name options – You’ll need to describe your intended activity and submit preferred trade names for approval by the DED.

4. No Objection Certificate (NOC) – from your current UAE sponsor or employer . If you are currently on a UAE visa, a NOC may be needed to form a new company under your name.

5. Office lease agreement (Ejari tenancy contract) – A physical office space is mandatory for . This contract proves your legal tenancy and is required to issue your trade license.

6. Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Local Service Agent Agreement – These legal documents define your company’s structure and responsibilities. We prepare and notarize them on your behalf, customized to your business type.

7. Bank reference letter or personal bank statements – However, These may be requested for specific regulated activities or when opening a corporate bank account, to verify financial standing.

How We Help You in Business setup Dubai, UAE

At Almalia Consulting FZCO, we offer a full range of services to ensure your Business setup Dubai, UAE is seamless, compliant, and tailored to your goals. However, From the first consultation to post-launch support, we handle every step with precision and care.

Free Consultation & Business Structuring

We begin by understanding your business model, goals, and market strategy. In addition, Based on your input, we recommend the most suitable license type, business activity, and legal structure while guiding you on ownership rules and UAE regulations.

Trade Name Reservation & Activity Approvals

We help you choose a suitable trade name and submit it for approval. Simultaneously, we obtain clearance for your selected business activities from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or other relevant authorities.

MOA Drafting & Local Sponsorship Setup

Our team prepares your Memorandum of Association (MOA) in compliance with UAE legal standards. Also, If required, we connect you with reliable UAE nationals for local sponsorship or service agent agreements.

Office Lease Assistance & Ejari Registration

A physical office is mandatory for Dubai mainland businesses. Thus, We assist in locating the right office space and handle Ejari registration, which is essential for obtaining your trade license.

DED Commercial License Issuance

Once all requirements are fulfilled, we submit your application and finalize your Dubai mainland license, making your business legally operational in the UAE.

Visa & Immigration Services

We manage the complete immigration process — including establishing your company’s immigration file, securing investor or partner visas, employee work permits, medical testing, and Emirates ID issuance.

Corporate Bank Account Opening Support

We work with leading UAE banks to help you open a business account. From document preparation to meeting compliance standards, we simplify the entire banking process.

Post-Setup Compliance & Ongoing Support

Our relationship doesn’t end after registration. We support you with VAT registration, corporate tax compliance, UBO declarations, ESR filings, and annual license renewals — keeping your business fully compliant at every stage.

Why Choose Almalia Consulting for Mainland

We’ve assisted companies across sectors like retail, contracting, trading, consulting, and hospitality in launching successfully within Dubai’s mainland jurisdiction.

Trustworthy Local Sponsorship Support

We arrange reliable UAE national sponsors or service agents aligned with your license type and business structure—ensuring full compliance and peace of mind.

Transparent & Fair Pricing

Our fees are clearly outlined from the start, with no hidden costs or surprise charges—giving you confidence in every step.

Efficient Process Handling

We manage all approvals, document submissions, and DED requirements efficiently, helping you get licensed and operational in the shortest time possible.

Support Beyond Setup

Our relationship doesn’t end after registration. We continue supporting your business with VAT filing, corporate tax, accounting, license renewals, and ongoing compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions:-

Why choose the mainland of Dubai over a free zone?

Dubai mainland lets you trade freely anywhere in the UAE market and pursue government contracts, while free zones often restrict you to operating inside the zone or internationally.

Do I need a UAE local partner?

Some commercial activities still require a UAE national sponsor (51% ownership). Many professional activities allow 100% foreign ownership with a Local Service Agent.

How long does the Dubai mainland setup take?

Usually 7–14 working days once all paperwork is in order.

Can you handle VAT, tax, and accounting too?

Absolutely. We provide full support beyond your license, including VAT registration, corporate tax filings, bookkeeping, and audits.

How can I start?

Contact us , and we’ll guide you step by step, handle all government processes, and get your Dubai mainland business up and running fast.

Mainland Business Setup in Dubai, UAE

Why would you want to choose Mainland for Business setup in Dubai, UAE?

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai is easy and easier with an experienced company formation expert in Dubai such as Adam Global

Possibility of 100% foreign ownership unless a special exemption applies to restrict them. Before the new amendment in the UAE CCL (Decree Law No. 26 of 2020), the ex-pat business owners were only allowed to own a maximum of 49% ownership of their business

Appointment of a local service agent is no longer mandatory to register professional licences, branches of foreign companies or free zone establishments and sole proprietorship companies

The mainland licence holder is free to work with the UAE mainland companies, locally-based customers and/or governmental bodies. The latter surely improves your business reputation and status, both in the country and internationally

There are no restrictions on the location of commercial premises provided it is located onshore and in the respective emirate from where the licence is dispensed

The Dubai mainland business licence enables the licencee to trade internationally and expand their presence worldwide

A Dubai DED licence is the best bet if branch expansion is a key goal of your start-up as it gives you the freedom to expand your business’ branches to other parts of Dubai and across the UAE

A Dubai onshore setup offers significantly more scope for your business to evolve

With a Dubai mainland licence the administrative process is smoother, faster, and less restrictive compared to free zone counterparts

Documents Required for Business setup Dubai, UAE

1. Passport copies of all shareholders and appointed managers – These are required to verify identity and ownership during the application process.

2. UAE residence visa or Emirates ID copies – (if the individuals are already residing in the UAE) This helps determine visa eligibility and residency status for business registration.

3. Proposed business activity and multiple trade name options – You’ll need to describe your intended activity and submit preferred trade names for approval by the DED.

4. No Objection Certificate (NOC) – from your current UAE sponsor or employer . If you are currently on a UAE visa, a NOC may be needed to form a new company under your name.

5. Office lease agreement (Ejari tenancy contract) – A physical office space is mandatory for . This contract proves your legal tenancy and is required to issue your trade license.

6. Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Local Service Agent Agreement – These legal documents define your company’s structure and responsibilities. We prepare and notarize them on your behalf, customized to your business type.

7. Bank reference letter or personal bank statements – However, These may be requested for specific regulated activities or when opening a corporate bank account, to verify financial standing.

How We Help You in Business setup Dubai, UAE

At Almalia Consulting FZCO, we offer a full range of services to ensure your Business setup Dubai, UAE is seamless, compliant, and tailored to your goals. However, From the first consultation to post-launch support, we handle every step with precision and care.

Free Consultation & Business Structuring

We begin by understanding your business model, goals, and market strategy. In addition, Based on your input, we recommend the most suitable license type, business activity, and legal structure while guiding you on ownership rules and UAE regulations.

Trade Name Reservation & Activity Approvals

We help you choose a suitable trade name and submit it for approval. Simultaneously, we obtain clearance for your selected business activities from the Department of Economic Development (DED) or other relevant authorities.

MOA Drafting & Local Sponsorship Setup

Our team prepares your Memorandum of Association (MOA) in compliance with UAE legal standards. Also, If required, we connect you with reliable UAE nationals for local sponsorship or service agent agreements.

Office Lease Assistance & Ejari Registration

A physical office is mandatory for Dubai mainland businesses. Thus, We assist in locating the right office space and handle Ejari registration, which is essential for obtaining your trade license.

DED Commercial License Issuance

Once all requirements are fulfilled, we submit your application and finalize your Dubai mainland license, making your business legally operational in the UAE.

Visa & Immigration Services

We manage the complete immigration process — including establishing your company’s immigration file, securing investor or partner visas, employee work permits, medical testing, and Emirates ID issuance.

Corporate Bank Account Opening Support

We work with leading UAE banks to help you open a business account. From document preparation to meeting compliance standards, we simplify the entire banking process.

Post-Setup Compliance & Ongoing Support

Our relationship doesn’t end after registration. We support you with VAT registration, corporate tax compliance, UBO declarations, ESR filings, and annual license renewals — keeping your business fully compliant at every stage.

Why Choose Almalia Consulting for Mainland

We’ve assisted companies across sectors like retail, contracting, trading, consulting, and hospitality in launching successfully within Dubai’s mainland jurisdiction.

Trustworthy Local Sponsorship Support

We arrange reliable UAE national sponsors or service agents aligned with your license type and business structure—ensuring full compliance and peace of mind.

Transparent & Fair Pricing

Our fees are clearly outlined from the start, with no hidden costs or surprise charges—giving you confidence in every step.

Efficient Process Handling

We manage all approvals, document submissions, and DED requirements efficiently, helping you get licensed and operational in the shortest time possible.

Support Beyond Setup

Our relationship doesn’t end after registration. We continue supporting your business with VAT filing, corporate tax, accounting, license renewals, and ongoing compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions:-

Why choose the mainland of Dubai over a free zone?

Dubai mainland lets you trade freely anywhere in the UAE market and pursue government contracts, while free zones often restrict you to operating inside the zone or internationally.

Do I need a UAE local partner?

Some commercial activities still require a UAE national sponsor (51% ownership). Many professional activities allow 100% foreign ownership with a Local Service Agent.

How long does the Dubai mainland setup take?

Usually 7–14 working days once all paperwork is in order.

Can you handle VAT, tax, and accounting too?

Absolutely. We provide full support beyond your license, including VAT registration, corporate tax filings, bookkeeping, and audits.

How can I start?

Contact us , and we’ll guide you step by step, handle all government processes, and get your Dubai mainland business up and running fast.

Call Us:

Mail Us

Location

Quick Links

2. UAE residence visa or Emirates ID copies – (if the individuals are already residing in the UAE)
This helps determine visa eligibility and residency status for business registration.