Global Sky PRO | UAE Business Setup Experts

Mainland Business Setup in UAE

The mainland in the UAE provides one of the most vibrant and business friendly environment in the region. Having a wide customer base, little trade barriers, and the chance to collaborate with the government and the private sector, the establishment of the mainland company is the best option that an entrepreneur could choose to have a firm presence in the local and international market.

What is Mainland company?

A mainland company is a business entity registered and licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) of a specific emirate such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. This type of company allows entrepreneurs and investors to conduct business activities without geographical restrictions across the United Arab Emirates and internationally.

Unlike free zone companies, mainland businesses can trade directly with the local UAE market, take part in government and semi-government tenders, and work freely with both public and private sector clients. This makes mainland company formation a preferred choice for businesses looking for long-term scalability and market expansion.

If you’re planning to set up a mainland company and want the process to be smooth and stress-free, Global Sky PRO can guide you at every step. From helping you choose the right business activity and license type to handling approvals, documentation, and compliance, the team ensures your mainland business setup is done correctly and efficiently. With local expertise and a clear understanding of UAE regulations, Global Sky PRO makes mainland company formation simple, transparent, and future-ready.

01

100% Foreign Ownership in Many Sectors

Experience full business ownership with complete foreign ownership of different activities that have been approved in the mainland of UAE.

02

Access to Government Projects & Local Market

Conduct business throughout the UAE and compete to win high value government contracts with a secure mainland business license.

Benefits Of Mainland Company Formation In UAE

UAE Market Access

Be able to operate within the UAE without any restrictions.

No Trading Restrictions

Do business with the government and the private customers in the UAE.

Several Office Locations

Select between flexible offices in various emirates.

Unlimited Visa Quota

Mainland companies are allowed to apply to an unlimited amount of employee visas (depending on office space).

Freedom of Trade

The right to trade locally and internationally.

Flexible Business

Carry on a broad variety of commercial, professional or industrial operations.

Eligibility to Government Contracts

Get involved in profitable government tenders and contracts.

Repatriation of Profits

Capital and profits may be fully repatriated.

Mainland Company Licenses Types

Commercial License

Trade and General Business (To trade and general business)

Professional License

Service, Professionals & Consultants (To service providers, professionals and consultants)

Industrial License

Manufacturing or Industrial (To be used by manufacturing or industrial based businesses)

Costs of Mainland Company Formation in the UAE

Mainland company setup costs depend on factors such as the emirate, business activity, visa quota, and office space requirements. To get an accurate and transparent cost breakdown tailored to your business needs, connect with our experts today.

How to Establish a Mainland Company in UAE

01

Select the Business Activity

You can pick the activities of your choice among the list approved by the DED.

02

Choose a Legal Form

E.g. LLC, Sole Establishment, Civil Company, etc.

03

Reservation of Trade Name

Select and reserve a trade name.

04

Apply to obtain Initial Approval

Obtain pre-approval with DED.

05

Rent an office

Rent a physical office and obtain Ejari (tenancy contract).

06

Draft MOA/LSA Agreement

Draft Memorandum of Association and/or Local Service Agent agreement.

07

Final Documents

Hand in all the necessary documents to get the license.

08

Get the Business License

Get your trade license at the DED.

Documents Required for Mainland Company Formation

Passport copies of shareholders and managers

UAE residence visa or visit visa copies

Emirates ID (for UAE residents)

No Objection Certificate (NOC) from sponsor (if applicable)

Tenancy contract (Ejari)

Trade name reservation certificate

Initial approval receipt

Why Choose Global Sky PRO for Mainland Company Formation?

Local Market Expertise: We understand DED processes and UAE compliance thoroughly.

Transparent Pricing: No hidden charges, full cost breakdown.

Quick Turnaround: Get your business license in as little as 3–5 working days.

Custom Solutions: Tailored packages based on your business goals.

Full Support: From legal drafting to office leasing and visa processing.

Frequently asked question