A Mainland company is licensed by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). It allows you to trade across the UAE and work directly with local customers and government entities. The steps can vary slightly by activity and legal form, but the process usually looks like this:
- Choose your business activity. Confirm that your activity is permitted in Dubai. Some activities need extra approval from other authorities.
- Select a legal structure. Common options include a sole establishment, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a partnership. Foreign companies can also open a branch or representative office.
- Reserve your trade name. Choose a name that meets the naming rules and receive initial approval.
- Prepare legal documents. This includes the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and, where required, other company agreements, which must be properly notarised.
- Obtain external approvals. Regulated activities may need approval from additional government bodies.
- Receive your trade licence. Once all steps are complete, your commercial licence is issued.
- Complete tax registration. Register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) for corporate tax and, where applicable, VAT.
Documents usually required for Mainland setup
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Emirates ID copies, for those who are UAE residents
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current sponsor, if applicable
- Memorandum of Association
- Initial approval from the licensing authority
- Trade name reservation certificate
