UAE Mainland Company Setup
Establish your business in the UAE mainland to access the domestic market, participate in government tenders, and benefit from full market access across all emirates.
Mainland Advantages
- • Full UAE market access
- • Government contract eligibility
- • No business activity restrictions
- • Direct customer interaction
- • Local market credibility
- • GCC expansion opportunities
Choose Your Emirate
Dubai Mainland
Key Advantages:
- Largest market access
- International business hub
- Advanced infrastructure
- Global connectivity
Best For:
- Trading & Distribution
- Professional Services
- Technology
- Finance
Abu Dhabi Mainland
Key Advantages:
- Capital city
- Government projects
- Oil & gas sector
- Strategic location
Best For:
- Government Contracting
- Oil & Gas
- Construction
- Engineering
Sharjah Mainland
Key Advantages:
- Cost-effective
- Manufacturing hub
- Cultural center
- Industrial focus
Best For:
- Manufacturing
- Import/Export
- Industrial Services
- Logistics
UAE Mainland License Types
Professional License
For service-based businesses and professional activities
Permitted Activities:
- Consulting Services
- Legal Services
- Medical Services
- Engineering
- Accounting
Requirements:
- Professional qualification
- Experience certificate
- UAE residence visa
Commercial License
For trading and commercial activities
Permitted Activities:
- General Trading
- Import/Export
- Retail
- Wholesale
- E-commerce
Requirements:
- Business plan
- Market study
- Financial statements
Industrial License
For manufacturing and industrial activities
Permitted Activities:
- Manufacturing
- Production
- Processing
- Assembly
- Packaging
Requirements:
- Environmental approval
- Industrial facility
- Technical expertise
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Benefits of UAE Mainland Business
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Setup Requirements & Documentation
Basic Requirements
- Valid passport copy
- UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID
- Passport photographs
- Educational certificates
Business Requirements
- Trade name reservation
- Memorandum of Association
- Local sponsor agreement
- Office lease agreement
- NOC from landlord
Financial Requirements
- Bank statements
- Financial projections
- Capital requirements
- Auditor appointment
- Share capital deposit
Understanding Local Sponsor Requirements
What is a Local Sponsor?
For UAE mainland companies, a local sponsor (UAE national) is required to hold 51% ownership, while foreign investors can hold up to 49%. However, management and operational control can be structured to remain with the foreign investor.
Sponsor Responsibilities:
- • Provide Emirates ID and passport copies
- • Sign Memorandum of Association
- • Attend DED registration process
- • Maintain legal compliance
Sponsor Service Fees
Note: Recent UAE laws allow 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors. Consult with our experts to explore these opportunities.
Mainland Setup Process & Timeline
Trade Name Reservation
Reserve and approve your company name with DED
Local Sponsor Agreement
Finalize agreement with UAE national sponsor
Initial Approval
Submit application and get initial approval from DED
MOA Preparation
Draft and notarize Memorandum of Association
License Issuance
Final approval and license issuance
Post-Incorporation
Bank account opening and visa processing
Total Timeline: 2-4 weeks for complete mainland company setup
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Ready to Start Your UAE Mainland Business?
Get expert assistance with your mainland company setup and gain access to the full UAE market with government contract opportunities.