Mainland Business Setup in the UAE

What Is a Mainland Business Setup?

A Mainland company setup in the UAE provides businesses with the flexibility to operate both locally and internationally without restrictions. Unlike free zone companies, a Mainland business license allows companies to trade directly within the UAE market and take on government contracts.

At Consult Kumar, we specialize in helping businesses navigate the legal and procedural requirements of setting up a mainland company. With our expertise and strong government connections, we ensure a smooth, hassle-free UAE mainland business setup process.

Why Choose Mainland Business Setup?

Setting up a mainland company in the UAE comes with numerous advantages, including:

1. Freedom to Operate Anywhere

A mainland license allows your business to operate anywhere in the UAE, including free zones and internationally, without limitations.

2. 100% Foreign Ownership

Thanks to recent reforms, many business activities in the UAE mainland now allow 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor.

3. Access to Government Contracts

Mainland businesses can bid for government contracts, which are not available to free zone companies.

4. No Currency Restrictions

Unlike free zones, mainland businesses face no restrictions on currency transactions.

5. Easier Business Expansion

With no geographic limitations, UAE mainland companies can expand effortlessly across the country and beyond.

Get a Free Consultation on Mainland Setup!

Our Mainland Business Setup Services

At Consult Kumar, we offer end-to-end services for UAE mainland company formation, including:

1. Business Registration & Licensing

We help you obtain the appropriate trade license based on your business activity and jurisdiction.

2. PRO & Visa Services

Our PRO services assist with documentation, approvals, and visas for you and your employees.

3. Office Space & Local Sponsor Services

If needed, we assist in securing office space and local sponsors (for activities requiring one).

4. Banking & Financial Support

We help you open a corporate bank account and explore financing options through our banking partners.

5. Legal Compliance & Approvals

We ensure your company meets all regulatory requirements set by government authorities.

Start Your Business in UAE Mainland Today!

Mainland Business Jurisdictions in the UAE

Abu Dhabi Mainland

Abu Dhabi Mainland businesses are regulated by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). The emirate offers a diversified and knowledge-driven economy, making it an attractive hub for businesses across various industries.

Read More About Abu Dhabi Mainland

Dubai Mainland

A Dubai Mainland business is governed by the Department of Economic Development (DED). Dubai is the UAE’s commercial hub, offering world-class infrastructure, a strategic location, and immense business opportunities.

Read More About Dubai Mainland

Our Mainland Business Setup Packages

We offer affordable and transparent mainland business setup packages to fit different budgets:

  • Starting at 14,999 AED – Enquire Now
  • Starting at 15,999 AED – Enquire Now

Flexible Payment Plans Available – Split your payment into 4 interest-free installments with our selected banking partners.

Why Choose Consult Kumar?

At Consult Kumar, we are more than just consultants—we are your business growth partners. Our experienced team of business setup consultants provides:

Expert Guidance: Years of industry experience to simplify your business setup journey. 

End-to-end Support: From documentation to legal compliance, we handle everything. 

Fast-Track Process: Our government connections help speed up approvals and licensing. 

Dedicated Support: Personalized consultation and customer service tailored to your business needs.

Get Started with Your Mainland Business Setup Today

Ready to establish your business in Abu Dhabi Mainland, Dubai Mainland or any other emirate? 

Our expert consultants at Consult Kumar are here to assist you every step of the way.

Work With UAE’s Leading Business Setup Experts!

FAQs

ConsultKumar advises all its clients to reach out to us with your query as rules and regulations may have changed at the time of you reading this information.

Call us on 050 6577025 / 050 5527930 or email us help@consultkumar.com or you may chat with us on whatsapp. We will be sure to address your queries within 1 hour.

What is the cost of the business setup in a UAE Freezone?
The cost of the business setup varies from each Freezone authority.
The cost also depends on number of owner(s), the need for UAE resident visa for owner(s), the need for employee visa quota and application of labor permit. The kind of business activity you choose. There are several factors that go into total setup cost. We encourage you to reach out to our consultants via online form or direct call or drop in a whatsapp message. You will get an estimate within 1 hour.


Which are the most popular Freezones in the UAE?
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA), Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSOA), Ajman Free Zone, Sharjah Media City, Kizad Abu Dhabi, Fujairah Creative City, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone & UAQ Free Zone.

How many activities can I perform under the single license in UAE Freezone?
In most Freezones you can have two activities under one license contact our staff, and they will guide for the best options that suit your needs.


Do I need a local agent or a local sponsor for my license in Freezone?
No, as a foreign owner you are 100% owner of your company

What are the different type of activities in UAE Freezone?
There are three types of activities in UAE Freezones known as the commercial, professional and industrial activities.

The activities that require capital like retail, real estate, wholesale, transportation and many others come under the commercial activities. Mining, water, electricity, gas and many other services fall under the industrial activities and social and personal services, health, education and consultants are regarded as the professional activities.

How long will it take to setup a Freezone company?
In the UAE, Freezone company incorporation can be completed within 4 hours to a maximum of 31 days. It all depends on the Freezone wherein you would like to incorporate your company.

What are the types of companies that I can setup in UAE Freezones?
Apart from the kind of business and the requirements, it is important that you be aware of the business companies that you can setup in the Freezone area. Here is the list of the type of companies that you can have in the UAE Freezones.

Private Freezone company owned by individual

Partnership company in a Freezone (more than 1 maximum 4)

Branch of an international company

Branch of the company already operating in Mainland

What type of business setup can you have in UAE Freezones?
In the UAE Freezones, you can start any business that you prefer. There is no need to have a local sponsor and you are 100% owner of your business. However, you can only operate in the geographical available for the Freezone.

Why should I start my business in Dubai or UAE?
UAE is a global business hub. With best connectivity with the world through its world class airport and port facility. Centrally located connecting key markets between Asia Europe and Africa. A stable and progressive government with rules that support ease of doing business, free access to global human resource, excellent banking system of over 40 national and international banks. There is no corporate or income tax, no tax on repatriation of your income of corporate profits.

UAE is a testament to the world how strong leadership, values and progressive thinking can turn around a young country into a dominant economic power.

ConsultKumar advises all its clients to reach out to us with your query as rules and regulations may have changed at the time of you reading this information.

Call us on 050 6577025 / 050 5527930 or email us help@consultkumar.com or you may chat with us on whatsapp. We will be sure to address your queries within 1 hour.

What is the process of Trade Name Registration in the Mainland?
Consult Kumar will apply for the registration of your Trade Name in the related Department of Economics for the related emirates.  The booking will take one day, and it is validated for six months even if you are prepared to start the process of establishing your company.

How many activities can I perform under the single license in the Mainland?
Under the single license, you can manage 10 activities of the same group. However, you must ensure that you engage yourself in the activities that have been labelled in the DED standards.

What are the different services provided by the local agent and local partner?
When you are providing the professional services, you will require the local agent. The Local partner has no interaction with your company or organization, he is only the ambassador of your company who will sign the local agent contract and there is no financial involvement.

On the other hand, the legal partner is required for the commercial activities. He has a share in your organization because he will sign the memorandum and will be responsible for the activities of your organization. Read more


Do I need a local agent or a local sponsor for my license in Mainland?
If you are planning to start a mainland company that you will have to use a UAE national as your local agent or local sponsor. Check our Sponsor services for more information.

Which department will issue the trade license in Mainland Dubai?
The Department of the Economic Development is responsible to issue the trade license of all the three categories. It will depend on the type of your business and the activities that you will be performing. To get the Dubai license for your business you have to ensure that you submit the required and legal documents.

What are the requirements for the trade license in Mainland?
To get the trade license, you have to submit the following information:

  1. Enlist the category of your business
  2. Enlist the type of activities that you will be performing
  3. Enlist all the activities that fall under your business license and you might consider use them
  4. Ensure that there are only 10 activities listed
  5. The nationalities and number of business owners must be included with the legal undertakings
  6. The conditions and requirements that falls under the license must be included
  7. Trade Name of the business should be mentioned
  8. For the initial approval you will have to submit the application to the department
  9. Once you have the approval register your Trade Name immediately
  10. Rent the business premises
  11. The conditional documents to your business must be prepared. It includes certification from authorities, memorandum of association.


How can I renew my business license in Mainland?
If you want the renewal of your commercial license, you will have to submit the DED registered certificate with the approval that you had from the Ministry of Economy and National Media Company. To renew the trade license, you will have to submit the valid EJARI certificate and your lease contracts.


What are the types of licences that I should apply for to setup a business in UAE Mainland?
There are three different types of license that you will need according to your business activities:

  1. A commercial license will be required if you are engaged in the trading business
  2. Professional license if you will be providing the professional services
  3. If you have a manufacturing or industrial business, then you must apply for the industrial license.


Do I need to rent an office in Dubai Mainland to start a business?
No, ConsultKumar can assist you in starting your business without the actual need to take up an office. Our virtual lease offers start from AED7,500.00. This will enable to you start your operations. Should you require Micro office such as Desk space for one, with meeting rooms facility, dedicated call lines and mail management with parking, please do get in touch with one of our business advisors or fill in the online form, call us or drop in a whatsapp text. We will respond to you within 1 hour.


What are the various categories of incorporation in UAE Mainland?
There are different types of business incorporation categories in UAE. They differ by the terms and conditions, the amount of paid up or share capital, number of shareholders required and the incorporation procedure, namely are:

  1. General partnership company
  2. Share partnership company
  3. Limited liability company
  4. Joint venture company
  5. Private shareholding company
  6. Public shareholding company


What happens if my Local Service agent or 51% UAE shareholder passes away?
In such unfortunate circumstance the will created by the deceased will come into effect and who inherits becomes the new nominee shareholder. He/she may or may not operate as the previous nominee shareholder.

With ConsultKumar all our structures are created in a manner that ensures continuous functioning of business without any hurdles during such transition period

Can I change my Local sponsor, are there any exit clause, will ConsultKumar assist in this process?
There is minimum 30day notice period to be provided prior to license expiry date. In the absence of such notice, the agreed fee of nominee shareholder will be applicable. You may change your Local service agent / sponsor at your willingness. We will assist you in this process.

Why should I start my business in Dubai or UAE?
UAE is a global business hub. With best connectivity with the world through its world class airport and port facility. Centrally located connecting key markets between Asia Europe and Africa. A stable and progressive government with rules that support ease of doing business, free access to global human resource, excellent banking system of over 40 national and international banks. There is no corporate or income tax, no tax on repatriation of your income of corporate profits.

UAE is a testament to the world how strong leadership, values and progressive thinking can turn around a young country into a dominant economic power.

Consult Kumar advises all its clients to reach out to us with your query as rules and regulations may have changed at the time of you reading this information.

Call us on 050 6577025 / 050 5527930 or email us help@consultkumar.com or you may chat with us on whatsapp. We will be sure to address your queries within 1 hour.

What are the limitations of an Offshore Company Setup?
Offshore Company Formation in UAE has few limitations such as – No provision to issue residency visa, no trade within UAE, no leasing or renting a Local Premise in the UAE.

Can an Offshore Company Open a Bank Account in the UAE?
Yes, an Offshore Company can open a Bank Account in the UAE. The company owner will have to visit the UAE to do the paperwork with the bank. The bank will be assessing business activity, company profile, fund flow, etc. UAE has strict Know-your-Customer (KYC) Norms for Offshore Company Bank Accounts.

How much time will it take to Register an Offshore Company in the UAE?
Offshore Company can be incorporated in less than 2 Working Days. Offshore Company registration is relatively easy by applying through an online registration form along with the right documents. In normal circumstances, the company registration will happen even without the physical presence of the company owner.

Can Offshore Company buy Property in Dubai?
Yes, Offshore Company registered in RAKICC and Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) are eligible to purchase residential property in the Offshore Company’s name from designated freehold areas in Dubai. However, there are certain restrictions in terms of usage and disposal of the property. Offshore Company is not eligible by UAE Legal Laws to purchase any commercial property in the UAE.

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We are available in 24/7 hours for dedicated support

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Office 3904, Level 39,
Al Barsha 1, Sheikh Zayed Road,
PO Box 4379 Dubai,
United Arab Emirates

+971 4 4206661

+971 52 2500540

help@consultkumar.com

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