15 Sep How to Start a Company in Dubai Mainland: Complete 2025 Guide
Starting a company in Dubai Mainland remains one of the most strategic business moves in the Middle East. With its world-class infrastructure, 100% foreign ownership options, and a rapidly growing economy, Dubai continues to attract global entrepreneurs and investors in 2025.
If you’re planning to establish your business in the heart of the UAE, this comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know, from choosing the right business activity to obtaining your trade license and launching operations legally.
1. Understanding Dubai Mainland Company Setup
A Dubai Mainland company refers to any business registered under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), previously known as the Department of Economic Development (DED). Unlike Freezone companies, Mainland businesses can operate anywhere in the UAE and internationally, without restrictions on local market trade.
In 2025, the UAE’s Commercial Companies Law (CCL) allows 100% foreign ownership for most business activities, eliminating the need for a local Emirati sponsor in many cases. This makes Dubai Mainland an ideal choice for investors seeking full control and market access.
2. Key Benefits of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai
Setting up a Mainland company provides several strategic advantages:
- 100% Foreign Ownership (for most activities)
- Freedom to Trade Across the UAE Market
- Access to Government and Semi-Government Contracts
- Unlimited Business Activities (commercial, professional, or industrial)
- Office Setup Flexibility – You can choose from business centers, shared offices, or full premises.
- Visa Eligibility – Each office size allows a specific quota of employee visas.
- Strong Global Reputation – Dubai Mainland companies are internationally recognized, making banking and partnerships easier.
3. Steps to Start a Mainland Company in Dubai
eThe process of setting up a business in Dubai Mainland is straightforward but involves several legal steps. Below is the updated 2025 step-by-step process:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
The first step is to define your business activity — whether commercial (trading), professional (services), or industrial (manufacturing).
The Dubai DET offers over 2,000 activity types, so choosing the correct one ensures proper licensing and legal compliance.
Step 2: Select a Legal Structure
Depending on the nature of your business and ownership, you’ll select one of the following legal entities:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Civil Company
- Branch of a Foreign Company
- Representative Office
In most cases, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the preferred choice due to its flexibility and liability protection.
Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name
You must reserve a unique trade name with the DET that reflects your business type and follows the UAE’s naming conventions. The name cannot include offensive words, religious references, or duplicate existing names.
Once approved, the name is reserved for 6 months.
Step 4: Apply for Initial Approval
The Initial Approval Certificate from DET confirms that the government has no objection to your business starting in Dubai. This approval allows you to proceed with other steps like tenancy contracts and documentation.
Step 5: Prepare the Memorandum of Association (MOA)
For LLCs, the MOA outlines the ownership structure, share distribution, and management roles. This document must be notarized through a private notary or Dubai Courts.
Step 6: Choose a Business Location and Obtain Ejari
All Mainland companies must have a physical office space. The lease agreement must be registered through the Ejari system, which links your tenancy contract to the Dubai Land Department for legal recognition.
Step 7: Obtain External Approvals (If Required)
Some business activities (e.g., healthcare, education, real estate, tourism, or legal services) may require approvals from external authorities such as:
- Dubai Municipality
- KHDA (Knowledge & Human Development Authority)
- Dubai Health Authority
- RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency)
Step 8: Pay the Fees and Receive the Trade License
Once all approvals are in place, submit your documents to the DET, pay the applicable government fees, and receive your Dubai Mainland Trade License.
The trade license typically includes:
- Business activity
- Company name
- License number
- Issuance and expiry dates
4. Estimated Cost of Dubai Mainland Company Setup (2025)
The cost of setting up a business in Dubai Mainland depends on various factors such as business activity, office size, and visa requirements.
As of 2025, the average setup cost ranges between AED 12,000 and AED 25,000, covering:
- Trade license issuance
- Name reservation and initial approval
- Ejari registration
- MOA notarization
- Government and administrative fees
Professional assistance through a business setup consultancy like GCC Solutions ensures accurate budgeting and smoother processing.
Why Choose GCC Solutions for Business Setup in Dubai Mainland
Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland involves multiple steps, government approvals, and documentation requirements that can be time-consuming without local expertise.
GCC Solutions offers end-to-end assistance covering:
- Trade license application
- MOA drafting and notarization
- Ejari and tenancy registration
- External authority approvals
- Investor visa and corporate banking support
With a dedicated team experienced in UAE, KSA, Qatar, and Kuwait company setups, GCC Solutions ensures your business is established seamlessly, compliant with 2025 regulations, and ready to operate immediately.
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