Register a company on the UAE mainland—Service

Page content

1. How to choose the right type of company for business in Dubai,UAE?
2. What is a mainland company and who registers it
3. Advantages of mainland companies
4. Visa quotas and office requirements
5. Absence of geographical restrictions
6. Corporate tax in the UAE
7. How to register a mainland company in Dubai?
8. Stages of opening a mainland company
9. What is the value of professional support of consultants
10. Licensing of mainland companies in the UAE
11. Types of mainland licenses
12. Office requirements
13. Validity period and extension of the license
14. Licensing cost
15. Additional Approvals (for Licensed Activities)
16. Beneficial Owner Disclosure (UBO) Requirements
17. Translation and Notarization
18. Conclusion
19. FAQ

How do you choose the right type of company for business in Dubai, UAE?

If your goal is to conduct a full-fledged business in the territory of the UAE, work with clients inside the country, participate in government projects, and have no geographical restrictions, then a mainland company is the optimal choice. Such a format is directly regulated by state bodies and allows working on the scale of the entire emirate or the entire federation.

What is a mainland company and who registers it

A mainland company (LLC) is a legal entity registered on the main territory of one of the emirates of the UAE (for example, in Dubai or Abu Dhabi). It is issued through the relevant economic department of the emirate: in Dubai, through the official body of the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism (DET). In other emirates, through the relevant departments of economic development, for example, the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (Abu Dhabi DED).

Unlike companies in free zones, a mainland company is not limited to the territory of its free zone and can operate throughout the UAE.

Advantages of mainland companies

The right to conduct business on the territory of the country

The mainland company receives a license to conduct commercial activities throughout the country within the scope of the types of activities specified in the document.

This significantly expands opportunities for business scaling, since many government orders are available only to companies registered on the mainland.

Participation in state tenders and work with state structures

An important advantage of mainland companies is direct access to government contracts and tenders. Such companies can participate in public procurement, supply goods and services to state institutions, participate in large infrastructure projects, on.

Ownership opportunities and legal flexibility

Previously, the registration of mainland companies required the participation of a local partner or sponsor with a share of at least 51% of the authorized capital. However, in 2021, there were changes in the corporate legislation of the UAE; today foreigners are allowed to own 100% of shares in most commercial, trade, and professional licenses without a mandatory local partner (with the exception of some specific sectors, such as oil, real estate, and medicine).

For certain types of activities, it may be necessary to appoint a local service agent (service agent), who is not the owner of the business but provides administrative support.

Visa quotas and office requirements

The mainland company allows you to issue visas for the owner and employees, and their number is determined by the size of the leased office space and the field of activity. This gives flexibility when hiring staff and expanding the team in the UAE.

In addition, to obtain a license, the company must provide a confirmed office address in the UAE in accordance with the requirements of the regulatory body.

Absence of geographical restrictions

The most important advantage of mainland companies is the freedom to conduct business both inside the UAE and outside the country, without the territorial restrictions typical of companies in free economic zones. This makes them the optimal choice for companies that:

• Oriented to the local UAE market;
• Plan long-term activities and development;
• Want to expand the network of clients throughout the country and work with government structures;
• They are interested in flexible conditions for visas and office requirements.

Corporate tax in the UAE

On June 1, 2023, the federal law on corporate taxation (Federal Law-Decree No. 47 of 2022) entered into force in the UAE. From this day on, companies based in the UAE must comply with the rules of corporate taxation. Income tax up to AED 375,000 is not levied; taxable income above this amount is taxed at a rate of 9%. One of the main requirements for compliance is that all enterprises must register with the Federal Tax Administration (FTA) and obtain a tax registration number (TRN).

To facilitate international business, the UAE has concluded more than 100 agreements on the avoidance of double taxation, which help to minimize or eliminate withholding taxes, helping to avoid double taxation of cross-border transactions.

How to register a mainland company in Dubai?

Registration of a mainland company in the UAE is a consistent legal procedure that requires the correct choice of the type of activity, company structure, and compliance with the requirements of regulatory bodies. With the support of professional consultants, the process is fast, predictable, and without risks of refusal or fines.

We accompany the client at all stages—from strategic planning to obtaining a license, issuing visas, and launching operational activities.

Stages of opening a mainland company

• Primary consultation and project structuring. At this stage, we conduct an analysis of the client's business model and goals, determine the optimal emirate for registration, and choose the organizational and legal form (LLC, sole establishment, etc.). We also assess tax consequences (corporate tax and VAT).
• Selection and approval of activities (activity selection) We select a licensed activity from the official DED/DET classifier, check the need for external approvals, and conduct a preliminary assessment of capital and office requirements. The correct choice of the type of activity in the license is a key factor for further bank compliance and visa support.
• Trade Name Reservation. Our specialists check the possibility of using the selected name and compliance with the requirements of the regulator as well as help with submitting an application and obtaining confirmation.
• Obtaining preliminary approval (initial approval). At this stage, the constituent documents are submitted, the ownership structure is confirmed, and official permission to register the company is obtained.
• Preparation of constituent documents. This is followed by the development of a Memorandum of Association (MOA), preparation of an agreement with a local service agent (if necessary), and notarization of documents.
• Office rental and contract registration (Ejari in Dubai). We will help with the selection of suitable premises, conclusion of the lease agreement, registration of the agreement in the Ejari system, and confirmation of the legal address.
• Obtaining a license and registration documents. Then there is the payment of state fees and obtaining a license and registration in the Chamber of Commerce, as well as obtaining corporate documents (Certificate of Incorporation, MOA, and License). After that, the company is considered legally registered and can start operations.
• Issuance of residence visas. At the next stage, we will help with obtaining the Founding Card and submitting documents for an investor visa. In addition, we accompany the process of obtaining visas for employees, passing a medical examination, and getting an Emirates ID.
• Opening a corporate bank account. Then we prepare a KYC package, support when interacting with the bank, and offer our support at the compliance check stage.

What is the value of professional support of consultants

The procedure for registering a mainland company involves interaction with several government agencies and requires strict compliance with formal requirements. Errors at the stage of choosing an activity, preparing documents, or submitting an application can lead to delays, additional costs, or refusals.

Licensing of mainland companies in the UAE

Licensing is a key stage of mainland company registration. Without obtaining a valid license, the company cannot carry out any commercial activity, open a corporate bank account, conclude contracts, or issue residence visas. The licensing procedure is regulated at the level of the relevant emirate and is carried out through the profile department of economic development.

In Dubai, licensing is carried out through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and in other emirates through the relevant Department of Economic Development (DED), for example, the Department of Economic Development of Abu Dhabi (ADDED).

Federal regulation of corporate activity — Ministry of Economy of the UAE. The basic regulatory act is Federal Law-Decree No. 32 of 2021 on commercial companies (as amended).

Types of mainland licenses

The type of license depends on the nature of the activity. In Dubai and other emirates, the main categories are as follows:

• Trade license. Suitable for trade in goods, import, export, wholesale, and retail activities.
• Professional license. Issued to companies providing services: consulting, IT services, marketing, legal and accounting services, etc.
• Industrial license. Necessary for production activity. Additional requirements are agreed upon with industrial and municipal bodies.

Each type of license includes a strictly defined list of permitted activities approved by the regulator.

Office requirements

To obtain a mainland license, you must first conclude an office lease agreement and register the agreement through the Ejari system (in Dubai or an equivalent in another emirate), as well as provide confirmation of the legal address.

The minimum area requirements depend on the type of activity and the planned number of visas.

Validity period and extension of the license

The license is issued for a period of 1 hour and is subject to annual renewal.

A valid lease agreement, confirmation of the absence of fines, and a timely update of registration data are required for renewal.

An untimely extension may result in fines and suspension of activity.

Licensing cost

The cost depends on the selected types of activities, emirate of registration, necessary external agreements, and the size of the office.

The final cost is formed from the state registration fee, license payment, office rents, and registration fees.

Document requirements for registering a mainland company in the UAE

Preparation of the correct package of documents is one of the key stages of mainland company registration. The government authorities of the emirate (for example, the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism in Dubai) check the structure of the owners, the source of funds, the correspondence of the chosen activity, and the legal transparency of the project.

With the support of professional consultants, the entire package is formed in advance, taking into account the requirements of the regulator and bank compliance.

Additional Approvals (for Licensed Activities)

Depending on the chosen type of activity, additional permits from relevant authorities may be required, such as

• Medical Licenses;
• Educational Permits;
• Municipal Approvals;
• Financial or Regulatory Licenses.

The list of documents in such cases is expanded and may include diplomas, professional certificates, a business plan, and proof of experience.

Beneficial Owner Disclosure (UBO) Requirements

In accordance with UAE anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, disclosure of information on Ultimate Beneficial Owners (UBOs) is required: UBO details, ownership stakes, and control structure.

The company is required to maintain a register of beneficial owners and update it whenever changes occur.

Translation and Notarization

All documents submitted to government agencies are prepared in Arabic or translated by an officially certified translator. Incorporation documents are signed in the presence of a notary (or through a digital system, if permitted by the regulator).

Conclusion

Registering a mainland company in the UAE is a strategic decision for businesses focused on operating in the domestic market, participating in government projects, and long-term development in a stable jurisdiction. With the right structure, carefully selected activities, and compliance with regulatory requirements, a mainland company offers maximum flexibility and scalability.

At the same time, the registration procedure requires a careful approach to selecting a license, preparing documents, interacting with government agencies, and subsequent banking compliance. Errors at any stage can lead to delays, additional costs, or the need to resubmit documents.

Our team provides comprehensive support to clients—from the initial consultation and project structuring to obtaining a license, visa processing, and opening a corporate account. We work in accordance with current UAE legislation, regulatory requirements, and banking regulations, ensuring process transparency and predictable timelines.

If you are planning to open a mainland company in the UAE or would like a professional assessment of your business model, contact our consultants for a personal consultation. We will help you select the optimal structure and implement a turnkey project with full legal support.

FAQ

Can UAE free zone companies operate on the mainland?

In 2025, UAE authorities allowed free zone companies to operate on the Dubai mainland, subject to certain conditions (Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025). Free zone companies (FZCs) can now apply to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) for a license granting them access to the local market. Licenses are issued for one year and must be renewed annually.

This new regulation allows free zone companies to operate on the Dubai mainland, meaning they will have a wider client base and be able to handle government contracts while continuing to enjoy the benefits of the free zone. This is an important step that simplifies and reduces the cost of business expansion and strengthens Dubai's reputation as a leading global business environment.

Is a mainland company suitable for IT, trading, and consulting?

A mainland company in the UAE is a versatile business structure suitable for most commercial and professional sectors, including IT services, trading, and consulting. However, the choice of structure and license should take into account the specifics of the business, regulatory requirements, and the company's strategic goals.

1. Advantages for IT companies:

• Ability to work with clients throughout the UAE without restrictions;
• Contracts with government agencies and large corporations;
• 100% foreign ownership (for most IT sectors);
• Flexibility in hiring employees and obtaining work visas.

In certain cases (for example, when working with telecommunications or fintech solutions), additional approvals from relevant authorities may be required.

2. Advantages for retailers:

• Ability to sell products directly on the domestic market;
• No need to work through a local distributor;
• Access to government and corporate contracts;
• Ability to register multiple trading lines under a single license (subject to regulatory requirements).

Certain product categories (medicine, food, cosmetics, and chemicals) require additional registration and permits.

3. Advantages for consulting services:

• 100% foreign ownership (in most cases);
• Ability to enter into contracts with companies throughout the UAE;
• Work with government and quasi-governmental entities;
• Flexibility to expand your team.

Some professional fields may require proof of qualifications (diplomas, certificates, work experience).

Is it possible to register a mainland company in the UAE with 100% foreign ownership?

Yes, in most cases, a foreign investor can own 100% of a mainland company in the UAE without involving a local partner.

Following amendments to the Federal Decree-Law No. 32 of 2021 on Commercial Companies, the requirement for a UAE national to hold a 51% stake has been abolished for most commercial and professional activities.

When restrictions may apply:

Some strategic industries (e.g., oil and gas, defense, and certain financial services) may still require special ownership structure requirements or additional regulation.