Dubai MainlandCompany Setup
Trade directly across all seven Emirates. Open physical storefronts, lease commercial offices, or bid on government tenders with 100% foreign ownership.
Who Needs a Mainland Licence?
Mainland is the required choice for businesses selling directly inside the UAE domestic market or needing physical commercial premises.
Retail Stores, Showrooms & Dining
Open walk-in retail shops, restaurants, clinics, or consumer outlets anywhere in Dubai.
Physical Offices & Warehouses
Lease private offices, commercial warehouses, or industrial facilities across the Emirate.
Government & Municipal Tenders
Bid directly on UAE federal and municipal procurement contracts and public sector projects.
Direct UAE-Wide Trade
Sell goods and services directly to consumers and businesses across all seven Emirates.
Mainland Operating Rules
Essential regulatory facts for foundersGenerally 100% available across commercial and professional activities. Strategic Impact activities may have additional ownership requirements.
A registered commercial address is generally required. In Dubai, this is typically documented through Ejari.
Visa eligibility depends on your business activity, licence type, premises, and authority approvals.
Standard 9% on taxable net profits above AED 375,000. Small Business Relief applies to revenue under AED 3,000,000.
Required Formation Documents
Basic identification and company documents needed to begin your application.
Shareholder Documents
- Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
- UAE entry stamp or resident visa copy
- Passport-size digital photograph
- Three proposed company names
Company & Premises Documents
- Trade Name Reservation Certificate
- Signed Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Registered commercial address lease (Ejari in Dubai)
- Special approvals for regulated sectors (if applicable)
How Mainland Formation Works
A four-stage path from activity reservation to your official trade licence and bank account.
Activity & Name Approval
Select your commercial activities and reserve your approved company trade name.
Initial Approval & MOA
Secure initial government clearance and sign your Memorandum of Association.
Premises & Trade Licence
Register your commercial address (Ejari in Dubai) and receive your official trade licence.
Visas & Bank Account
Complete residence visas for your team and submit your corporate bank application.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Two practical missteps that can cause licensing delays or unexpected premises costs.
Signing a Lease Too Early
Secure initial activity clearance before signing a lease so you confirm the premises are zoned for your specific trade.
Overlooking Sector Approvals
Regulated sectors (such as healthcare, engineering, or legal services) require ministry approval before licence issuance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to common questions about Dubai Mainland licensing.
100% foreign ownership is generally available for Mainland companies, although some Strategic Impact activities may have additional ownership or regulatory requirements.
Mainland businesses generally need a registered commercial address. In Dubai, this is typically documented through Ejari. Initial trade approvals can be secured before finalizing your lease.
Yes. An onshore Mainland company can open branch offices across Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other Emirates to expand across the UAE.
Mainland companies pay 9% corporate tax on taxable net profits above AED 375,000. Businesses with annual gross revenue under AED 3,000,000 can apply for Small Business Relief.
Still deciding between Mainland and Free Zone?
Compare costs, office flexibility, and tax rules side-by-side.
Form Your Dubai Mainland Company
Schedule a consultation to evaluate your commercial activities, verify premises requirements, and prepare your DET registration.