Start Your Mainland Company in the UAE with Ease
100% foreign ownership now possible for many business activities. Launch your mainland business with expert guidance and full compliance.
Why Choose Mainland Company Setup?
Setting up a mainland company in the UAE gives your business the freedom to operate without geographic limitations. You can trade anywhere in the UAE and internationally, bid for government projects, and enjoy flexible office location options. With recent reforms, many business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, eliminating the need for a local sponsor. Mainland businesses also benefit from broader visa eligibility, allowing you to scale your team as needed. It’s the ideal setup for entrepreneurs looking to grow and expand confidently in the UAE market.
Why Choose Crestbridge for Your Mainland Company Formation?
Setting up a mainland company in the UAE requires expert navigation through legal, regulatory, and administrative processes — and that’s where Crestbridge makes the difference.
DED Registration Expertise
We handle all aspects of licensing with the Department of Economic Development across all emirates.
Transparent & Cost-Effective
No hidden charges. We provide clear guidance on all fees, documentation, and timelines.
End-to-End Business Setup
From trade name reservation to office space selection and visa processing, we manage the entire journey.
Tailored Structuring
We advise on the most suitable legal structure based on your activity, ownership preferences, and growth plans.
Local Partnership Network
Benefit from our relationships with reliable local sponsors, PRO services, and government departments.
Quick Turnaround Times
We streamline the process to ensure your business license is issued quickly and efficiently.
Benefits of Mainland Company Setup
- Access to the entire UAE market
- Eligible for government contracts
- Wide range of business activities
- Flexible office location options
- Higher visa quota based on office size
- Ability to trade locally and internationally
- No currency restrictions
- 100% foreign ownership (for most activities)
Step-by-Step Setup Process
The first step in forming your UAE mainland company is deciding on your core business activity—commercial, professional, or industrial. This choice will determine the licenses required and permissible operations. Next, select the most suitable legal structure, such as Sole Establishment, Civil Company, or LLC, based on your ownership preferences, business goals, and risk profile. Our team at Crestbridge will guide you through each option to ensure compliance and strategic alignment with UAE regulations.
Once you’ve selected your business activity and legal structure, the next step is to reserve your company’s trade name with the Department of Economic Development (DED). The name should be unique, compliant with UAE regulations, and relevant to your business. After reserving the name, you must obtain initial approval from the DED, which indicates that the government has no objection to the formation of your company. This approval is essential to move forward with the licensing and documentation process.
Choosing the right business location is crucial for your mainland company setup. You’ll need to select a physical office space that complies with the UAE’s regulatory requirements. Once the location is finalized, you must obtain a tenancy contract (Ejari) registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). This contract serves as proof of your business premises and is mandatory for obtaining your trade license. The location also plays a role in determining the jurisdiction and licensing authority for your business operations.
After securing your trade name and tenancy contract, the next step is to submit all required documents to the relevant Department of Economic Development (DED) or licensing authority. This includes identification documents, initial approvals, the tenancy contract, and other supporting paperwork based on your business activity. Once submitted, you’ll need to pay the applicable government and licensing fees. Upon approval, your trade license will be issued, officially registering your mainland company in the UAE.
Once all documents are approved and fees are paid, you will receive your official trade license from the relevant authority. This license legally authorizes your company to operate in the UAE. With the license in hand, you can now open a corporate bank account, hire employees, apply for visas, and start conducting business activities confidently within the mainland jurisdiction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mainland company in the UAE?
A mainland company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economic Development (DED) in the relevant emirate, allowing it to operate within the UAE and internationally without restrictions.
Can I own 100% of a mainland company as a foreign investor?
Yes, in many business activities, foreign investors can now own 100% of a mainland company without requiring a UAE national sponsor, thanks to updated regulations.
How long does it take to set up a mainland company?
The process typically takes 5 to 10 business days, depending on the business activity, approvals, and document readiness.
What are the common types of legal structures for mainland companies?
The most common structures include Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Establishment, and Civil Company, depending on the nature of your business.
Is a physical office required for a mainland company?
Yes, a physical office address with a valid tenancy contract (Ejari) is mandatory for mainland company registration.
What are the advantages of setting up a mainland company?
Main advantages include the ability to trade anywhere in the UAE, bid for government contracts, and enjoy greater flexibility in operations and staffing.
Can I sponsor employees with a mainland license?
Yes, a mainland company can apply for employee visas and sponsor staff as per the business size and office space.
Is a UAE residence visa included with a mainland company setup?
Yes, company shareholders and employees are eligible for UAE residence visas once the license is issued and quota is approved.
