Overview
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Why Mainland?
If you’re looking to start a business in Dubai, a mainland company could be the perfect solution. With over 3,000 business activities to choose from, you’ll have the freedom to pursue your passion and grow your business in a thriving economy.
One of the key advantages of a mainland company is the ability to trade anywhere in the UAE and overseas. This can be a game-changer for businesses looking to expand and reach new markets.
Are you considering starting a business in the UAE but unsure of where to begin? A mainland company may be the perfect solution for you. A mainland company is a company licensed by the Department of Economic Development in the relevant Emirate of the UAE. Here’s why a mainland company setup could be the best choice for your business.
A mainland company offers location flexibility and no restrictions on trade between other businesses. This means that your business can offer services to the government, trade directly with consumers from anywhere in the UAE and open multiple branches. You can build a strong presence throughout the Emirates.
Mainland companies are also in a position to undertake a wide scope of work. If you want to diversify your offering within the mainland, you can simply re-register the new business activity with the DED and start trading freely.
One significant incentive for mainland business setup in the UAE is that government tenders are big business. This means that your business will be well positioned to take advantage of such lucrative government contracts.
Foreign investors looking to conduct business in the UAE can now enjoy the benefits of 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies. This means that business owners can get straight down to business, without the need to canvass for an Emirati company or individual to act as a partner. 100% foreign ownership of mainland UAE business provides incredible potential for the UAE’s growth-machine economy to foreign investors.
If you’re currently set up within a free zone business structure and considering the leap to forming a mainland company, we can help. While free zone companies form an ideal starting point for UAE businesses, when it’s time to expand, it’s time to make the switch to a mainland company. With the right UAE national sponsor or company formation specialist, moving from a free zone to the UAE mainland is a shrewd and manageable move.
In conclusion, starting a mainland company in the UAE could be the best choice for your business. The benefits include location flexibility, zero trade restrictions, broad working scope, access to lucrative government contracts, and 100% ownership control of mainland business entities. With the right support and guidance, you can set up a successful mainland company and thrive in the UAE’s thriving business environment.
Procedures!
Are you considering setting up a business in Dubai? Look no further than our comprehensive checklist for mainland business setup. Here are the steps you need to follow to ensure your venture gets off to a successful start:
1
Choose your business activity
Decide on the industry in which you will trade by choosing from the thousands of permitted business activities listed by the Department of Economic Development.
2
Find the ideal location
Unlike free zone businesses, mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the UAE. Consider factors such as budgeting and your chosen business activity to find the perfect location.
3
Determine your business legal structure
The most common structure is a Limited Liability Company (LLC). A local sponsor is required for an LLC, but professional service companies can be 100% foreign-owned.
4
Obtain a local sponsor or local service agent
You will need a local sponsor if setting up an LLC, but a local service agent is required for professional service companies.
5
Name your company
Ensure your chosen trade name complies with all UAE naming guidelines.
6
Apply for a mainland trade licensee
Provide all required documents to the Department of Economic Development.
7
Secure your office space
Choose between serviced offices, shell and core spaces, or pre-fitted offices.
8
Apply for relevant visas
Visa applications should correspond to the amount of office space required, and owners can sponsor dependents and apply for investment visas
9
Partner with a Company Setup Consultant
Working with a UAE-based consultant can make the process stress-free and ensure your business goals are met.