UAE Mainland Company Formation
Operate across the entire UAE market, work with government entities, and establish a powerful local presence with unrestricted trading capabilities.
Set up your mainland business in any of the seven UAE emirates with expert guidance, comprehensive support, and transparent pricing from our licensed consultants.
What is a UAE Mainland Company?
A UAE Mainland company, also known as an onshore company, is a business entity registered under the Department of Economic Development (DED) of a specific emirate. Unlike free zone companies that operate within designated areas, mainland companies have the unique advantage of conducting business anywhere in the UAE without geographical restrictions. This structure is the premier choice for businesses aiming for maximum market reach, credibility, and the ability to engage directly with the local economy.
Mainland companies are licensed to trade directly with the entire UAE market, including consumers, businesses, and government entities. This unrestricted access makes mainland formation ideal for retail businesses, trading companies, construction firms, restaurants, and any business requiring a physical presence in the local market. With the 2021 Commercial Companies Law reform, 100% foreign ownership is now available for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities, eliminating the previous requirement for a local Emirati sponsor in most cases.
Each of the seven emirates offers mainland company formation through their respective economic development departments. While Dubai remains the most popular choice due to its strategic location and business infrastructure, other emirates like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah offer competitive advantages including lower setup costs, specialized industry clusters, and streamlined procedures. Choosing the right emirate depends on your target market, business activities, and operational requirements.
Key Benefits of Mainland Company Formation
The strategic choice for businesses seeking unrestricted growth and maximum market access within the UAE.
Trade directly with any business, consumer, or entity anywhere in the UAE without requiring a local distributor or agent. Access the entire domestic market freely.
Qualify to bid on lucrative government contracts and tenders across federal, emirate, and municipal levels—a significant revenue opportunity unavailable to free zone companies.
Access over 2,000 licensed business activities with the flexibility to add or modify activities as your business evolves and grows.
Establish offices, retail stores, warehouses, or manufacturing facilities anywhere within the emirate, not limited to designated business zones.
Following recent reforms, foreign investors can now own 100% of their mainland company for most commercial and industrial activities without a local sponsor.
Mainland companies enjoy higher credibility with local clients, banks, and government entities, facilitating easier business relationships and banking access.
Our Streamlined Mainland Setup Process
We make your mainland company formation effortless with a clear, step-by-step process managed by our expert team of licensed business consultants.
Free Consultation & Planning
We begin with a comprehensive consultation to understand your business goals, target market, and operational needs. Our experts recommend the optimal emirate and legal structure for your venture.
Initial Approval & Trade Name
We secure your desired trade name and obtain the Initial Approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED), ensuring your business activities are correctly classified.
Documentation & MOA
Our team prepares all required documentation including the Memorandum of Association (MOA), shareholder agreements, and ensures all documents are properly notarized and attested.
Office Space & Ejari
We assist in securing a compliant physical office space that meets DED requirements and complete the Ejari registration (tenancy contract registration).
License Issuance
We submit all documents to the DED, process government fees, and ensure your official mainland trade license is issued correctly and promptly.
Visa Processing & Handover
Post-licensing, we handle establishment card registration, visa processing for shareholders and employees, and provide complete company documentation.
Types of Mainland Licenses
Choose the right license category based on your business activities and operational requirements.
Commercial License
For trading activities including import, export, distribution, and retail of goods and commodities.
Professional License
For service providers, consultants, freelancers, and professionals offering expertise-based services.
Industrial License
For manufacturing, production, assembly, and industrial processing activities.
Tourism License
For travel agencies, tour operators, hotels, and tourism-related service providers.
Mainland Setup Across All Emirates
We facilitate mainland company formation in all seven UAE emirates, each offering unique advantages for different business needs.
Transparent & Competitive Pricing
We believe in complete transparency when it comes to pricing. Our mainland packages cover all essential requirements with no hidden fees or surprise charges.
- All government fees and DED charges included
- Professional MOA drafting and notarization
- Assistance with office space and Ejari registration
- Complete visa processing support included
Typical Cost Structure
Why Choose Incorporate UAE?
With years of experience and thousands of successful mainland formations, we're the trusted partner for businesses seeking UAE market access.
DED-Approved Consultants
Our team consists of government-approved business consultants with deep expertise in mainland company formation regulations.
Dedicated Account Manager
Each client receives a dedicated account manager who guides them through every step of the formation and licensing process.
Fast-Track Processing
Our established relationships with DED authorities enable faster approvals, priority processing, and efficient document handling.
Complete PRO Support
Beyond formation, we provide ongoing PRO services, visa renewals, license amendments, and annual compliance support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about UAE mainland company formation and our services.
1What is the difference between mainland and free zone companies?
Mainland companies can trade freely throughout the UAE market, work with government entities, and establish offices anywhere in the emirate. Free zone companies operate within designated zones and typically need a local distributor to trade in the mainland market. However, free zones offer benefits like simpler setup and lower costs for international trade.
2Do I still need a local sponsor for a mainland company?
Following the 2021 Commercial Companies Law reform, 100% foreign ownership is now available for over 1,000 commercial and industrial activities. However, certain strategic sectors like oil and gas, banking, and insurance may still require Emirati participation. Our consultants can advise on your specific activity requirements.
3How long does mainland company formation take?
The typical timeline for mainland company formation ranges from 2-4 weeks, depending on the emirate, business activities, and documentation completeness. Dubai and Abu Dhabi generally have streamlined processes. Securing compliant office space is often the factor that extends the timeline.
4What are the office space requirements for mainland companies?
Mainland companies must have a physical office space registered with Ejari (tenancy contract registration). Requirements vary by emirate and business activity—some activities require specific sizes or locations. Virtual offices are not permitted for mainland companies, but we can help find cost-effective shared office solutions.
5Can I convert my free zone company to a mainland company?
Yes, it is possible to convert a free zone company to a mainland company, though the process involves closing the free zone entity and establishing a new mainland company. We can guide you through this transition while minimizing business disruption and ensuring compliance.
Ready to Conquer the UAE Market?
A mainland license is your key to unrestricted growth in the UAE. Join thousands of successful businesses that have established their presence with our expert guidance.