Dubai Mainland Business Setup Guide
Welcome to Your Dubai Business Journey
Setting up a mainland business in Dubai offers numerous advantages:
- No restrictions on business activities or trading
- Ability to do business directly with the local UAE market
- No foreign exchange controls or taxation on personal income
- 100% foreign ownership available for most business activities
- Access to government tenders
Let's guide you through the key decisions you'll need to make.
Dubai Mainland
Your Gateway to UAE Business
Step 1: Choose Your License Type
Every mainland company needs a license to operate. Select the type that best fits your business:
Step 2: Select Legal Structure
The legal structure of your business determines liability, ownership options, and operational framework:
Step 3: Understand Ownership Restrictions
While most Dubai mainland companies allow 100% foreign ownership, certain business activities require a local partner. Below are activities with foreign ownership restrictions:
Activities Requiring Local Partnership
If you wish to operate a company involved in any of these activities, you will need to collaborate with a local partner:
Your Dubai Business Setup Summary
Here's an overview of what you've learned about setting up a mainland company in Dubai:
Dubai offers 5 main license types: Industrial (manufacturing), Commercial (trading), Professional (services), E-Trader (online businesses), and Dual License (free zone expansion).
Choose from 7 legal structures including General Partnership, Limited Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Private Joint Stock, Public Joint Stock, Civil Company, and Sole Proprietorship.
100% foreign ownership is possible for most business activities, except for specific sectors like security, oil exploration, banking, insurance, and certain other regulated industries.
After choosing your license type and legal structure, you'll need to:
- Select a company name
- Prepare required documents
- Apply for initial approval
- Secure a location/office space
- Obtain external approvals (if needed)
- Submit final documents and pay fees
- Receive your business license
