Dubai Mainland Overview
Dubai Mainland includes all the business zones that are managed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Unlike Free Zone or Offshore setups, having a Mainland company license allows you to conduct business internationally, within the UAE and outside the country.
Key Benefits
1. Confirmed Access to the UAE Market
Mainland businesses can sell directly to the local market and transact with government clients—there is no need for a distributor or local sponsor.
2. No limits on Business Activities No specific activity restrictions will be enforced:
you can operate in multiple industries under one license.
3. No limit on Employee visa
In mainland company can hire as many employees as per business needs—there are no limits on the number of employee visas.
4. Freedom of Office Locations
You have the full right to rent office space anywhere in Dubai, including top business hubs and shopping centers, helping increase your brand’s visibility.
5. Structures of Ownership
- Standard Option (51/49): Earlier, in some business activities, a UAE national (or sponsor) had to own a minimum of 51% of the shares of the company, while foreign investors retained the balance of 49%.
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Amendments in regulations of late permit 100% foreign ownership in certain business activities.
6. Eligibility for Government Contracts
They can apply for highly profitable federal, emirate-level and municipal tenders.
7. Increased Controls on Visa
More control over employee and family visas, faster processing and greater allocation of available visas.
8. Global Reputation
All partners, banks, and regulators recognize Mainland licenses allowing for worldwide business exports and international dealings.
Best For
- Businesses focusing on the United Arab Emirates market and customers.
- Enterprises with plans for expansion across multiple emirates of the GCC.
- Companies looking to obtain contracts from the government or other public institutions.Businesses requiring prominent business office locations.
With a Dubai Mainland structure, you get the freedom of market access and operational flexibility, which is perfect for businesses looking to create a long-lasting presence in the UAE.
How to Set Up a Business in Dubai Mainland – A Step-by- Step Guide
Continuous developments to infrastructure as well as location, enables Dubai to be one of the most beautiful places for businesses to grow. If you are looking to set up your business in the UAE, establish it within Dubai Mainland for unparalleled access to the local market and free trading through the UAE.
Follow the steps below for further guidance:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Every company has its own specific license, be it professional, industrial, or commercial, so it is mandatory to select a specific business activity. This decision also determines your compliance requirements as well as provides the scope for your business structure.
Step 2: Decide on a Legal Structure
Most known legal frameworks for setting up a business in Dubai Mainland include:
- LLC (Limited Liability Company) – ideal for most businesses
- Sole Proprietorship – for solo entrepreneurs
- Civil Company – suitable for professional partners
- Branch Office – if expanding from an existing company
Step 3: Pick a Trade Name
For choosing a business name, always make sure it goes alongside UAE regulations. The name also needs to be one of a kind and representative of your trade while ensuring no religious or offensive terms are included.
Step 4: Obtain Initial Approval
Start preparing the letter and other relevant documents for the submission to the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) in order to acquire consent and authorization to proceed with the application.
Step 5: Draft Legal Documents
Take care of all the relevant documents alongside preparing the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and a Local Service Agent Agreement, if applicable. Ensure that these documents are notarized.
Step 6: Lease an Office
Dubai mainland businesses must have a physical office location. Complete the tenancy contract and register it with Ejari.
Step 7: Apply for Your Trade License
When all documents are in order, apply for the Dubai Mainland Trade License at DET by submitting the application, paying the respective charges, and completing all necessary steps.
Step 8: Open a Corporate Bank Account
Now you may utilize your newly obtained business license to open a corporate bank account in the UAE.
Step 9: Apply for Visas
Post completion of the previously mentioned tasks, you may apply for partner, employee, and investor visas as required.
Documents You’ll Need
- Passports of shareholders/partners
- Emirates ID and visa with residence (if applicable)
- Description of business activity.
- Proposed business trade names
- Business lease agreement + Ejari
Do You Need A Local Sponsor To Start A Mainland Business In Dubai?
If you are looking to start a business in Dubai Mainland, one of the primary questions is: Do I need to hire a local sponsor? The answer is—Not Always.
Due to new modifications in UAE laws, many business activities to be carried out on the mainland now allow 100% foreign ownership, thus lifting the requirement of having a UAE national as a partner.
When You Don’t Need A Local Sponsor
You will not need a local partner if your business is within the list of activities that permit full foreign ownership. These typically fall under:
- Consultancy
- IT and Software Services
- Marketing and Advertising
- E-commerce and Online Businesses
- General Trading (some categories)
The Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) of Dubai keeps a complete catalog of business activities that qualify for 100% ownership.
In Need of a Local Sponsor
These cases still require local participation:
- Your business functions in a strategically or limited domain (i.e. oil and gas, military, security)
- Your business segments do not allow for complete foreign business ownership
- You are forming a sole proprietorship or a civil company which needs a Local Service Agent.
Understanding Types of Local Participation
1. Local Partner (51%\ Ownership)
Needed for restricted activities; the UAE national officially holds 51% equity in the company.
2. Local Service Agent (LSA)
Needed for specific professional licenses. An LSA neither holds title nor control but merely helps with office and governmental services.
Final Thoughts:
Registering a business in the Dubai Mainland is a relatively straightforward process. With the right information and a strong strategy, getting a business operational in just a few weeks is very achievable. Regardless of whether you are looking to start small or planning aggressive expansion strategies, Dubai offers unparalleled growth opportunities.
If you require assistance in setting up your business or obtaining licenses, contact our specialists at Taxtube for detailed guidance.
06 October 2025 
