A Mainland license—also known as an onshore license—allows businesses to operate both within the UAE and internationally, without any geographic restrictions.
In Dubai, “mainland” refers to areas outside the designated free zones. The Department of Economic Development (DED) oversees company registration and licensing. Since 2020, foreign investors can own 100% of mainland companies in many sectors, making mainland formation more appealing than ever.
Operate across the UAE, free zones, and the GCC region—no trade restrictions.
Full ownership is allowed in most sectors, eliminating the need for a local partner.
Set up your company anywhere in the UAE, based on business needs and logistics.
Trade freely with businesses and consumers across the UAE. You can also open multiple branches.
Bid for lucrative UAE government projects—e.g., AED 17.5 billion allocated in Abu Dhabi for infrastructure, education, and social development.
For trading businesses involved in the sale, import, and export of goods.
For service providers: IT, consultancy, legal, and engineering firms.
For manufacturing businesses using machinery, labor, and raw materials.
Required for travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality businesses.
Choose from 2,000+ activities listed by the DED—trading, hospitality, agriculture, and more.
Pick a location based on logistics, clientele, and operational goals (e.g., Jebel Ali for port
1) LLC for commercial/industrial activities.
2) Sole Establishment or Civil Company for professionals (100% foreign ownership).
1) For LLCs: A UAE national sponsor (can be silent with contract control).
2) For professionals: A Local Service Agent (LSA) with no ownership
Follow UAE naming guidelines (no offensive/religious terms). Names must be phonetic.
Submit the DED application with required documents:
1) MOA
2) Shareholder details
3) License form, etc.
Options include:
1) Serviced offices (furnished)
2) Shell & core units (bare, customizable)
3) Pre-fitted offices
Visas depend on office size (approx. 100 sq. ft. per visa). Sponsor staff, dependents, and investors.
Most popular
Suitable for trading, services, and manufacturing
Liability limited to capital contribution
1+ shareholders
Full control
Ideal for individual professionals
Owner has unlimited liability
Designed for qualified professionals (doctors, lawyers, etc.)
100% foreign ownership
Partners are personally liable
100% foreign ownership
Legally dependent on the parent company
Can operate commercially in the UAE
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Barsha Heights, Dubai
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