Can foreign investors own 100% of a mainland company in Dubai?

Yes. Under Federal Decree Law No. 26 of 2020, 100% foreign ownership is permitted for most commercial and industrial activities on the mainland. Specific strategic sectors listed in Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2021 still require UAE national participation.

Do I need a local sponsor for business setup in the UAE mainland?

A local sponsor is no longer necessary for most mainland companies. Professional activities may still require a Local Service Agent (LSA), but the LSA does not hold shares or have decision-making authority.

What business activities can be practised under a Dubai mainland licence?

The DET authorises more than 2,000 activities, including: – Commercial: general trading, retail, e-commerce, logistics, real estate brokerage – Professional: consultancy, IT services, design, marketing, education – Industrial: manufacturing, metal works, food production Specific activities require external approvals from authorities such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or Dubai Municipality.

Is physical office space required to open a company in the Dubai mainland?

Yes. A physical office with an Ejari-registered tenancy contract is mandatory for company formation in the Dubai mainland. The size of the office influences the company’s mainland visa quota.

Is corporate tax applicable to mainland companies in the UAE?

Yes. Mainland companies are subject to UAE Corporate Tax at 9% on taxable profits above AED 375,000. Businesses earning less than this amount fall under the small-business relief threshold. Specific sectors, such as oil & gas and banking, may follow separate tax regimes.

Can I operate a trading business with a mainland licence?

Yes. A Dubai mainland trade licence permits wholesale, retail, import, export, and e-commerce activities across the UAE and internationally. Mainland companies may work directly with customers, suppliers and government entities without a local distributor.

How long does it take to complete a mainland company setup in Dubai?

If all documents and approvals are in order, a mainland business setup in the UAE typically takes 3–5 working days. Timelines may vary for regulated activities requiring external approvals.

Can a mainland company open a corporate bank account in Dubai?

Yes. Once the mainland licence is issued, the company may open a corporate bank account with any UAE bank. Requirements typically include the trade licence, MoA, passport copies, Emirates IDs (if applicable) and proof of office address.

Dubai Mainland Company Formation | Mainland Licence Dubai

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Mainland Business Setup Services in Dubai

Official Dubai Mainland Company Formation Through EGSH

EGSH is an authorised government services centre supporting investors with complete mainland company formation in Dubai under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Through EGSH, businesses register their Dubai mainland company in one visit. We help confirm your business activity, select the correct legal structure, prepare all required documents, coordinate external approvals where necessary, and complete the Dubai mainland trade licence issuance through official DET channels.

Why EGSH:

Authorised centre fully integrated with the DET
One-visit submission with complete procedural guidance
VIP, queue-free service
Transparent, government-regulated fees

Most Dubai mainland licences are issued within three to five working days, depending on activity requirements and external approvals.

Official Dubai Mainland Company Formation Through EGSH

Visit EGSH

Visit our centre during working hours—no appointment is required. You may also book a consultation to discuss your business setup in the Dubai mainland.

Select Activity and Legal Structure

With our guidance, choose your DET-approved business activity, determine the correct legal form (such as LLC, Sole Establishment or Civil Company), and confirm your proposed trade name.

Submit the Application

EGSH prepares and submits your Dubai mainland company setup application through the DET’s official system, ensuring full compliance with UAE mainland company formation regulations.

Receive Your Mainland Trade Licence

Once approved, your Dubai mainland licence is issued. After registration, you may finalise your office lease (Ejari), open a corporate bank account, and begin applying for residence visas linked to your company.

Visit EGSH for VIP Service Without Queues

You can stop by EGSH during working hours without an appointment or book your visit at a time that suits you best.

Address
Art of Living Mall, Al Barsha 2, Dubai

Operating hours
Monday–Saturday: 9:00 am–5:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am–12:00 pm; 2:00 pm–5:00 pm
Sunday: Closed

Call +971 4 612 1810 WhatsApp

Identification Documents

Valid passport copies of all shareholders and managers. UAE residents must also provide copies of their Emirates ID and valid residence visa.

Legal Structure Documentation

Memorandum of Association or Local Service Agent agreement, depending on the legal form. Corporate shareholders must submit incorporation documents, board resolution, and power of attorney.

Trade Name and Office Lease

An approved trade name certificate and an Ejari-registered tenancy contract as proof of legal business premises in Dubai.

Additional Approvals

For regulated business activities, external approvals may be required (e.g., DHA for healthcare, KHDA for education, Dubai Municipality for food services, RTA for transport).

Take a 3D Tour of EGSH

VIP Service

Personal assistance and priority processing with no queues.

Affordable Fees

Official government rates with transparent, fixed pricing.

All Services in One Place

Comprehensive range of UAE government services under one roof.

One-Visit Completion

Most procedures are completed in a single visit to the centre.

What Is a Mainland Company in Dubai

A mainland company in Dubai is a legal entity established under the regulatory framework of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The DET is the government authority responsible for approving business activities, issuing commercial licences, supervising compliance, and regulating all mainland business setups in the UAE.

A Dubai mainland company may conduct commercial, professional, or industrial activities across the UAE, subject to the specific regulatory conditions of each licensed activity. Mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the country, serve government and private-sector clients, open offices in any emirate, and engage directly with the local market.

Unlike free zone entities, which are limited to their jurisdiction or international operations unless additional mainland licensing is obtained, mainland companies have broad national access—although certain regulated sectors (such as real estate brokerage, healthcare, education and other licensed professions) remain subject to activity-specific restrictions and approvals.

Under current UAE legislation—including Federal Decree Law No. 26 of 2020—100% foreign ownership is permitted for most business activities on the mainland. Specific strategic sectors listed under Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2021 still require UAE national participation.

Mainland entities may adopt different legal forms depending on their activity and ownership structure, such as Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, or Civil Company. Some professional activities continue to require a Local Service Agent (LSA), even though full ownership remains with the foreign investor. Each structure is subject to DET requirements, including approved business premises registered through Ejari and, where applicable, external approvals from authorities such as DHA, KHDA, Dubai Municipality or the RTA.

A properly licensed mainland company in Dubai benefits from broad operational flexibility, the ability to participate in government tenders, and eligibility to apply for employee residence visas in accordance with office size, licensed activities, and labour and immigration regulations. These advantages make Dubai mainland company formation a preferred model for entrepreneurs and corporations planning long-term operations in the UAE market.

Advantages of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Setting up a mainland company in Dubai offers a range of commercial, regulatory and operational advantages, as defined by the UAE’s federal licensing framework. However, these advantages only apply to entities that are registered with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and are operating under a valid Dubai mainland licence.

Full Operational Freedom Across the UAE
A mainland company may conduct business anywhere in the country without geographic limitations. It can trade with local clients, open branches across Dubai or other emirates, and participate in government and semi-government tenders—benefits that free zone companies do not have without additional licensing.
100% Foreign Ownership for Most Activities
Under Federal Decree Law No. 26 of 2020, foreign investors may own 100% of a mainland company for most commercial and industrial activities. A local partner is required only for activities classified as having a strategic impact under Cabinet Decision No. 55 of 2021.
Wide Range of Licensed Activities
The DET publishes an extensive list of more than 2,000 activities across the commercial, industrial and professional sectors. This allows companies to choose from consulting, trading, e-commerce, manufacturing, real estate brokerage, technical services and many other business categories.

Unlimited Growth Potential
Mainland companies may apply for unlimited employee visas, subject only to office size and activity requirements. They may expand operations freely by increasing office space, opening additional branches or adding new activities to an existing licence.
Ability to Work With the Public Sector
A Dubai mainland licence allows businesses to bid for contracts with government entities, public-sector companies and free zone authorities—opportunities not available to companies restricted solely to free zone jurisdictions.
Corporate Structure Flexibility
Investors may choose from recognised legal forms such as LLC, Sole Establishment or Civil Company, each with defined roles, liability rules and ownership structures. Mainland companies may also convert structures, add partners, or create subsidiary entities under a parent company.
Strong Regulatory Framework
Mainland companies operate under DET and federal laws, providing a transparent and predictable regulatory environment. Compliance requirements—such as Ejari-registered offices, accounting records and regulated activities—ensure legal clarity and long-term business stability.

These features make mainland company formation in Dubai an ideal model for investors seeking maximum market access, long-term presence, and seamless engagement with the UAE economy.

How to Choose the Right Legal Structure for a Dubai Mainland Company

Selecting the correct legal structure is a critical part of mainland company formation in Dubai, as it determines liability, ownership, permitted activities, visa eligibility and ongoing compliance obligations. Each structure is regulated by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and must align with the approved business activity.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC is the most common legal form for business setup in the Dubai mainland, used primarily for commercial and industrial activities. Key characteristics include:

100% foreign ownership permitted for most activities under the current UAE law
Liability limited to the value of shareholders’ capital contributions
Eligibility to open offices anywhere in Dubai
Access to government tenders and contracts
Ability to employ staff based on office size and activity

LLCs remain the preferred structure for trading, retail, contracting, logistics, manufacturing and similar operations.

Sole Establishment

A Sole Establishment is designed for individuals providing professional services, such as consultancy, marketing, training or design. Features include:

Owned by a single individual
Full foreign ownership permitted for most service activities
Requires a Local Service Agent (LSA) for specific regulated sectors (no ownership or management rights)
Ideal for freelancers, consultants and service providers

This structure is suitable for individuals seeking a simple, flexible and wholly owned professional business on the mainland.

Civil Company

A Civil Company is a professional partnership formed by two or more individuals with professional qualifications. Common sectors include legal services, engineering, medical practices, accounting and architectural consultancies. Key points are:

Full foreign ownership permitted for most professional categories
Partners share liability according to the partnership agreement
Some sectors require external approvals (e.g., DHA, KHDA, Dubai Municipality, RTA)

This structure is ideal for qualified professionals who wish to operate jointly under a shared mainland licence.

Branch of a Foreign Company or UAE Company

A branch allows a parent entity to operate in the Dubai mainland under its existing name. The advantages are:

No separate share capital required
Activities must match those of the parent company
May bid for government contracts depending on the sector
Certain regulated activities require external approval

This option suits established companies that wish to expand into Dubai without forming a new legal entity.

Public and Private Joint Stock Companies (PJSC/PJSC)

These structures are intended for large-scale commercial enterprises requiring substantial capital. They follow stricter regulatory and reporting standards and are often used for industrial, financial or investment businesses.

Choosing the correct structure ensures operational flexibility, compliance with mainland regulations and alignment with long-term business goals. EGSH evaluates your activity, ownership needs and operational model to recommend the most suitable and compliant form for Dubai mainland company setup.

Process of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Mainland company formation in Dubai follows a regulated sequence defined by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). While specific requirements may vary depending on the legal structure and business activity, the core process is consistent across all applications.

Identify Business Activity and Legal Structure
The first step is selecting a DET-approved business activity and confirming the appropriate legal form—LLC, Sole Establishment, Civil Company or Branch. This determines ownership rules, external approvals, and documentation requirements.
Reserve the Trade Name and Obtain Initial Approval
The trade name must comply with DET naming conventions and is reserved after approval. DET then issues initial approval, confirming that the applicant may proceed. Foreign shareholders must also obtain GDRFA pre-approval for foreign investors.
Prepare Legal Documents and Draft the MoA or LSA Agreement
Depending on the chosen structure:

LLCs require a Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Sole Establishments and some professional activities require a Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement
Civil Companies require a partnership agreement
Branches require parent company documents, board resolutions and Power of Attorneys (POAs)
Documents must comply with DET standards and, where required, be notarised or attested.

Secure Office Premises and Register Ejari
A physical office is mandatory for Dubai mainland company setup, regardless of legal form. The tenancy contract must be registered through Ejari and submitted as part of the mainland licensing process. Office size also determines the company’s mainland visa quota.
Submit the Final Application and Obtain the Mainland Trade Licence
EGSH submits the complete document set—initial approval, MoA/LSA, Ejari, shareholder identification and external approvals where required. The DET then issues the official Dubai mainland licence, legally establishing the company.
Post-Licensing Procedures
Once the company is licensed, the following may be completed:

Apply for the establishment card
Register the company with MOHRE if hiring employees
Apply for investor and employee visas
Open a Dubai company bank account
Register for UAE Corporate Tax and VAT if applicable

These post-licensing steps activate the company’s operational status and ensure compliance with UAE regulations.

EGSH assists you at every stage of the process, making sure that all regulatory actions are completed accurately within the authority's system.

Government Fees for Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Government fees for mainland company formation in Dubai are determined by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and vary depending on the business activity, licence type, number of shareholders, and any required external approvals. Each component of the fee structure is regulated and must be paid through official government channels.

Key fee components typically include:

Mainland Trade Licence Fee — Annual DET fee based on the authorised commercial, professional, or industrial activity.
Initial Approval and Trade Name Fees — Charges for reserving the trade name and obtaining DET initial approval to proceed with incorporation.
MoA or LSA Documentation Fees — Notarisation and drafting fees for the Memorandum of Association or Local Service Agent agreement, depending on the company structure.
Ejari Registration Fee — Mandatory registration fee for the tenancy contract of the office premises.
External Approval Fees (if applicable) — Regulated charges from authorities such as DHA, KHDA, Dubai Municipality, RTA or Civil Defence, depending on the activity.
Administrative and Knowledge/Innovation Fees — Standard surcharges applied to all DET transactions in accordance with UAE regulations.

Final government charges may differ depending on the selected activity group, external approvals, and office lease requirements. EGSH provides a detailed and transparent fee breakdown during consultation, so you know the exact cost of your Dubai mainland company setup before submission.

Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH

Explained by

Shaimaa Sayed Qasem

Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH

Shaimaa Sayed Qasem is a dedicated service provider at the Department of Dubai Economic Services at EGSH, with seven years of experience delivering business services, supporting clients and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Trade Licence Registration

From AED 130

Initial Approval

Apply for initial approval through EGSH, a government-authorised centre.

Trade Name Reservation

Reserve your official trade name in Dubai in minutes with EGSH.

From AED 130

All Services

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Frequently Asked Questions About Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Still have any questions?

Went there for a consulting. Booked an appointment in advance thro their website. Came early — no line — which is good. Very pleasant interior. My consultant Rachel, was polite. Answered all my questions. Can’t judge regarding the process once applied for an exact service, but consulting went well.

This trustee office is remarkably quiet, and it is unquestionably the finest I have experienced in Dubai. Umama Azeem was an absolute pleasure to work with; she ensured that all documentation and formalities were thoroughly prepared prior to the arrival of both the buyer and the seller. As a result, the transaction itself was completed within approximately ten minutes. For anyone uncertain about which trustee office to choose among the many available options, this is undoubtedly the correct choice. My sincere thanks to Umama Azeem for her exceptional assistance.

Amazing support and communication during the whole process. Rachel, Yara and Maria were super well organized and assisted in record time. We finished the whole process from star to end in 4 business days for 10 year Golden Visa!

I had an excellent experience with the wonderful help of Maria Claudia Garcia. Her professionalism and attention to detail made the whole process easy.

They are really very amazing very kind I was having problem with my residency and my license miss Zara and miss Amna they really help me from start to end and they are really very kind and professional highly recommend if any wants to setup there business go with egsh and thanks miss Zara 🙏 you are really very amazing person

I had a pleasure being assistanced by Ms. Natalia today and her support throughout the process. Everything was smooth, super professional, efficient and high level service was exceptional. Highly recommended for anyone looking for reliable and smooth government-related services.

I had such a great experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub)! Everything went super smoothly, and the team was really helpful. A big shout‑out to Ms. Zara Moshiri—she was kind and supportive the whole way through. Truly appreciate it!

Super quick and efficient service. Maria was available via WhatsApp and responded very quickly to all messages.

I got a delightful service from them to upgrade my visa category half of the expected timeline. Compared with my previous place, this the best and I would like to recommend any of visa service for all of you. * reasonable fair (I was asked twice my previous what I paid). * fast service and delivering before timeline. * Authentic service. Thank you so much Maria for your dedicated service.!

An exceptional service from Zara at EGSH. She guided us perfectly through the process and managed to get us even more than we had anticipated. A world class service center with exceptional staff. Would recommend them to anyone who wants to get sorted for government services

Hello, My Name is Kelvin it was my first time to hear EGSH Emirates Govt from my sponsor. I was assisted By Mrs Maria Claudia Garcia the experience was amazing from the beginning to the End she has been supporting and guiding me through all the process. I am grateful to her and the entire team for the help. I trust and believe EGSH is a place to recommend to family members and friends.

A very hassle free experience from EGSH. Special mention of Ms.Zara who was most helpfull. Her quick response to queries and swift action are much appeciated.

We had the pleasure of being assisted by the lovely Ms Maria and Ms Randa. They were clear concise and super professional throughout our whole process of renewing our Ejari and business licence. Maria provided continued support while we were waiting for our business Ejari to come through and made it a simple seamless process. I can’t thank these lovely ladies enough. We saved so much money going direct and it was refreshing knowing we are not over paying going through a PRO or typing service company that add so many fees. I saved over 6000aed just for reference. Thank you to EGSH staff. Especially Maria & Randa 🙏

EGSH in art of living is the best Hub center for every thing that you want in dubai Specially Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI is the advisor and assistance and she is beside you in every step Thank you Ms.ZARA MOSHIRI and EGSH

I recently visited this institution had an exceptional experience! Ms. Maria Claudia took the time to understand my needs and preferences. I really appreciate her support and services.

Good morning, I needed to apply for the Golden Visa and went to this EGSH Emirates office. I was very impressed by their facilities and the peaceful atmosphere. We were fortunate to be assisted by María Claudia García, who provided exceptional service. She advised and helped us every step of the way, guiding us through the entire process until we obtained the Golden Visa. Honestly, people with this level of professionalism and personal touch make one feel more at ease and integrated into this country. Thank you!

I would like to express my appreciation to Ray from EGSH for his outstanding assistance in handling the transfer of our property at Rove Hotel. He was very helpful, accommodating, and patient throughout the entire process, from addressing transaction concerns and verifying documents to the actual property transfer and ensuring the new owner received the title deed…

I worked with Amir and Zara, they took care of everything, I only had to send the mandatory information. In a very short time, everything was completed. I was amazed, considering how difficult it had seemed before. Not to mention, the fees were the same or even lower than those of the other companies I mentioned. For me, it was a 10/10 experience, the quickest and smoothest process someone could have in this journey. Strongly recommend them.

Zara assisted me with my Ejari registration, and she was absolutely amazing. She demonstrated exceptional professionalism, efficiency, and delivered everything promptly. Truly a pleasure to work with!

THE BEST!!! Zara you are as always star

Thanks to EGSH and to Zara for Excellent service — professional, attentive, and truly pleasant experience. Highly recommended!

Had an amazing service for the transfer of property there, specially Rachel Rahmat she was very helpfull throughout the process, looking forward to work more.

Visited for the first time for a property transfer and had an amazing experience with Jessieca! She was professional, helpful, and made the entire process smooth and stress-free. Highly recommended for all government services excellent customer service!

Personally, I find this the best centre in Dubai. They always go the extra mile. Especially Maria Garcia has help out so much in such an efficient way! Thank you!

Went there for ejari cancellation. Excellent place. Staff was so cooperative. Ms Maria and Ms Fatima assist me and it was a fast process.

This is probably the best government service hub in Dubai. You come in, asked to be seated, and the staff will come to you instead of standing on the reception and on queue. They will offer you tea and water are available at each table. Really embodies the Emirati hospitality and what seamstresses Dubai is known for.

I was here the morning of this post. The concierge like service with a contact person arranging for you all the difeerent interactions is making the interactuon as smooth as possible. A truly delightful experience and a true commitment to service excellence, thank you for the great experience and for the initiative to present government interactions in this way!

Outstanding service — fast, friendly, and highly professional. Thank you very much!

I’ve been here for the first time and I can say that this organization definitely worth to come here and make all proceeds with their help! We were changing the owner and such difficult process was really easy for us with your help and most of the time it was done online. So I’m very grateful to Mrs Zara and her support during all the process❤️

I had an excellent experience with Natalia Baiamonte from EGSH while getting Ejari certificate. From the very beginning, she was professional, attentive, and extremely helpful. Natalia guided me through the process clearly, answered all my questions with patience, and made task feel simple and stress-free. Highly recommend Natalia for her outstanding customer service and dedication!

We had great experience with Amal She is so helpful and awesome She stayed with us over her duty today just to finish her work Thanks Amal

I had a really good experience with EGSH (Emirates Government Services Hub). Everything went smoothly and the team was super helpful. Special thanks to Zara and Amal. they were so supportive and kind throughout the process. Really appreciate it!

I had a great experience with this office. They handle everything related to company setup, residency, Golden Visa, DLD, and more. The office is very clean, modern, and welcoming, and the staff are extremely professional and polite. A special thank to Ms. Zara for her kindness and guidance throughout the process so smoothly and professionally, and to Ms. Amal for managing the administrative registration.

Zara is the best always attentive to every requests and helping with a solving problems without delay thank you Zara❤️🌸 …

Absolutely stunning office, i am awestruck. No one can beat Dubai for the kind of hospitality you get in a government office… Its mind-blowing 😍 i wish i could give a 10 star rating (double) on 5 🤩

I had a great experience with EGHS. I was assisted by Sarah Almeida and she delivered an amazing service. Very attentive, promptly responded my messages and guided me throughout the process. It was all very smooth and done very quickly. I highly recommend and I’ll definitely use their services again.