Why Choose Dubai?
Here’s why Dubai stands out as a business destination:
100% ownership (most activities), giving full control.
Business-friendly policies for easier growth.
World-class infrastructure to support your business.
Skilled international workforce with top talent.
Dubai Mainland – An Overview
Dubai mainland is one of the most dynamic and sought-after business jurisdictions in the UAE. It’s ideal for companies looking to trade directly with the local market without restrictions. Businesses in the mainland can engage in thousands of licensed activities, open branches across Emirates, and partner with both private and government entities. Companies in Dubai mainland also enjoy greater flexibility in office locations and staffing. This setup is perfect for businesses aiming for long-term growth and market presence within the UAE.
Types of Business Licenses in Dubai Mainland
Dubai Mainland provides various business licenses to suit different types of business activities.
Commercial License
For businesses engaged in trading activities, including import, export, wholesale, and retail of goods and commodities.
Industrial License
For entities involved in manufacturing, production, and processing activities, such as textile production and packaging.
Professional License
For service-oriented businesses, including consultancy, legal, educational, and other professional services.
Step into Success
Set up Your Business in Dubai Mainland Today!
Dubai Mainland Workspace Solutions
Dubai mainland offers flexible workspace solutions for businesses at every stage:
Co-Working Spaces
Flexible, shared offices for short- or long-term rental, ideal for freelancers, startups, and businesses looking for a professional setting without the full office lease overhead.
Dedicated Offices
Private, long-term office spaces offering privacy, with the ability to customize the setup to fit team needs.
Virtual Office
Provides a professional business address and communication services without the need for a physical office. Perfect for businesses operating remotely.
Business Centers
Fully serviced offices with administrative support, meeting rooms, and essential business amenities are perfect for businesses seeking a hassle-free professional environment.
Showroom Spaces
Commercial spaces designed for product display and client engagement, ideal for retailers or businesses needing a high-visibility location.
How it Works?
Set up your Dubai Mainland business in three simple steps:
Get a Quote
Speak with our team to choose the ideal business activity and structure.
Register Your Business
We handle all the required approvals and documentation for you.
Start Operating
Once your license is issued, you’re all set to launch.
Dubai Mainland Company Setup Process
Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland involves the following steps regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED):
1. Trade Name Reservation
Reserve a unique trade name with the DED, ensuring it follows guidelines (e.g., includes legal form, no religious or governmental terms).
2. Initial Approval
Obtain initial approval from the DED, confirming there are no government objections. Some activities may need extra approval.
3. Drafting the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Draft an MOA based on the business structure (e.g., LLC), outlining ownership and roles. It must be notarized and attested as per DED requirements.
4. Office Space or Business Location
Secure a physical office, registering the tenancy contract with the Dubai Land Department, which is needed for licensing.
5. External Approvals (If Required)
Some businesses (e.g., legal, healthcare) require external approvals from relevant authorities (e.g., Ministry of Justice, Department of Health).
6. Business License Issuance
After completing all steps, submit the necessary documents for your business license. This includes the Trade Name Certificate, Initial Approval Confirmation, Registered Tenancy Contract, Attested MOA, and any required External Approvals.
Note: The process may vary depending on your business activity and regulatory requirements.
Dubai Mainland Visa Process
Once your business license is issued, you can begin the visa application process—only if your chosen package includes visa allocation.
Step 1: Apply for the Establishment Card
Begin by applying for your company’s establishment card. This document is mandatory for initiating any visa-related formalities.
Step 2: Submit the E-Visa Application
After e-channel registration is complete, you can apply for the e-visa by submitting the following documents:
- Passport copy
- Business license
- Current visa or cancellation document (if applicable)
- Company establishment card
- Passport-size photo (white background)
Step 3: Change of Status
Once the e-visa is issued, if you are outside the UAE, you can enter using the e-visa and then apply for a status change. If you are already in the UAE, you can file for a change of status locally
After the status change, you must complete your medical test and apply for your Emirates ID within 30 calendar days.
Documents required for medical test:
- Original passport
- Business license
- Establishment card
- Copy of status change confirmation
- Copy of e-visa
- Passport-sized photos
Step 4: Emirates ID Application
The UAE no longer stamps residency visas in passports—your Emirates ID now serves as your official proof of residency.
Documents required for Emirates ID application:
- Passport
- Passport-sized photos
- E-visa
- Change of status confirmation
- Business license
- Establishment card
- Emirates ID application form
- Medical test results
- Health insurance (mandatory in certain Emirates )
Step 5: Emirates ID Issuance
After completing the biometrics process, your Emirates ID will be issued.
Documents Required from Shareholder(s)
To initiate the mainland company setup process in Dubai, shareholders are required to submit the following documents:
Submit the Following Required Documents to Complete your Business Setup:
- Passport copy
- UAE visa copy or the latest UAE entry stamp (if applicable)
- Passport-size photo (required for certain business activities)
- Additional documents may be required depending on the business activity and external approvals
Our Banking Partners
We work closely with the following banks for opening bank accounts for our clients
