10 Sep How to Start a Mainland Company in Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
Setting up a business in Dubai is one of the smartest decisions entrepreneurs and investors can make in 2025. As a global business hub, Dubai offers unmatched opportunities, strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and investor-friendly regulations. Among the different business setup options, forming a mainland company gives you maximum flexibility, allowing you to trade across the UAE and internationally without restrictions.
If you’re planning to start a mainland company in Dubai, this detailed guide will walk you through the step-by-step process, requirements, benefits, and costs, so you can make an informed decision and get your business running smoothly.
What Is a Mainland Company in Dubai?
A mainland company is a business entity licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly known as the Department of Economic Development (DED). Unlike free zone companies, a mainland business can:
- Operate anywhere in the UAE without restrictions.
- Trade directly with the local market.
- Take on government contracts.
- Expand easily across different sectors.
Why Choose a Mainland Company in Dubai in 2025?
Mainland companies remain the most popular choice for serious investors because they offer:
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Since 2021, foreign investors can fully own mainland companies in most sectors (no local sponsor required in many cases).
- Unlimited Market Access: Unlike free zones, mainland companies are not restricted to specific geographic areas.
- Visa Eligibility: Easy to apply for multiple residency visas for owners and employees.
- No Currency Restrictions: Businesses can freely move capital in and out of the UAE.
- Government Projects: Ability to bid for lucrative UAE government contracts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Mainland Company in Dubai
Here’s how the process works in 2025:
1. Define Your Business Activity
Dubai allows over 2,000 business activities under commercial, professional, and industrial categories. Choosing the right one is crucial since it determines the license type, approvals, and costs.
2. Choose a Legal Structure
Your company’s legal structure will depend on the number of shareholders and the nature of your business. Common options include:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Sole Proprietorship
- Civil Company
- Branch of a Foreign Company
3. Register Your Trade Name
- Select a unique trade name that follows UAE naming guidelines (no offensive words, religious references, or political terms). This name must be approved by the DET.
Best for: Startups looking for cost-effective setups across multiple industries.
4. Get Initial Approval
The DET grants initial approval, allowing you to proceed with documentation and other approvals.
5. Draft and Notarize the Memorandum of Association (MoA)
Depending on your structure, you may need to create a MoA or Local Service Agent Agreement. This outlines shareholder responsibilities and company objectives.
6. Choose a Business Location
Mainland companies must have a physical office or workspace. The tenancy contract must be registered under Ejari.
7. Obtain External Approvals (if required)
Certain business activities, like healthcare, education, or legal consultancy, may need approvals from specific ministries or government bodies.
Conclusion
Certain business activities, like healthcare, education, or legal consultancy, may need approvals from specific ministries or government bodies.
8. Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Submit all required documents to DET, pay the license fee, and collect your trade license.
9. Apply for Visas
Once your company is formed, you can apply for investor and employee visas.
10. Open a Corporate Bank Account
Finally, choose a local or international bank in Dubai to open your corporate account and start operating.
Documents Required for Mainland Company Formation
- Passport copies of shareholders and directors
- Passport-size photos
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval certificate
- Tenancy contract and Ejari certificate
- MoA or Local Service Agent agreement
Costs of Starting a Mainland Company in Dubai (2025)
The cost of setting up a mainland company depends on your business activity, office space, and number of visas required. On average:
- License Fee: AED 10,000 – 15,000
- Office Rent: AED 15,000+ (depending on location)
- Visa Costs: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per visa
A basic mainland business setup package usually starts from AED 25,000 – 30,000.
The cost of setting up a mainland company depends on your business activity, office space, and number of visas required. On average:
- License Fee: AED 10,000 – 15,000
- Office Rent: AED 15,000+ (depending on location)
- Visa Costs: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per visa
A basic mainland business setup package usually starts from AED 25,000 – 30,000.
How GCC Solutions Can Help You
Starting a business in Dubai can be overwhelming with so many steps, approvals, and regulations to consider. At GCC Solutions, we make the process seamless by handling everything on your behalf, including:
- Business activity consultation
- Trade name reservation and approvals
- MoA drafting and notarization
- Ejari and office space solutions
- External government approvals
- Investor and employee visas
- Corporate bank account opening
With our expert guidance, you can set up your Dubai mainland company quickly and focus on growing your business.
Ready to Start Your Mainland Company in Dubai?
Don’t waste time navigating the process alone. Contact GCC Solutions today for a free consultation and receive a customized quote for your business setup in Dubai.
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