The UAE Mainland represents the most dynamic and economically active part of the United Arab Emirates. Companies registered under the mainland operate under the authority of the Department of Economic Development (DED) of each emirate. Unlike freezone or offshore companies, mainland businesses enjoy the highest level of operational freedom, market access, and growth opportunities.
Whether you are a global enterprise, a startup, or an individual investor planning to expand into the UAE, choosing the mainland allows you to tap into a large and diverse business ecosystem. From government contracts to nationwide trade, UAE Mainland continues to be the most sought-after jurisdiction for company formation.
At Eden Counsel, our mission is to make your UAE mainland company setup seamless, compliant, and strategically aligned with your business goals.
The UAE Mainland provides unparalleled flexibility to operate within and beyond the country. Unlike freezones, mainland companies face no geographical limitations. Here’s what makes the mainland stand out:
1. Full Access to the UAE Market
A mainland license allows you to do business anywhere in the UAE — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
2. Ability to Work With Government Entities
Mainland companies can participate in government tenders, public projects, and large-scale contracts that freezone companies cannot access.
3. 100% Foreign Ownership
The UAE now permits 100% foreign ownership for many activities, making it easier for investors to start companies without needing a local sponsor.
4. Unlimited Visa Eligibility
Unlike freezones, where visas are limited, mainland visa quota depends on your office size. More space means more visas.
5. Wide Range of Business Activities
Mainland offers more than 2,500 business activities, including commercial, professional, industrial, and consultancy services.
6. Flexible Business Expansion
You can easily open branches, expand to other emirates, or diversify activities.
Mainland companies can operate under different license categories. Eden Counsel helps you choose the right one based on your business activity.
1. Commercial License
For companies involved in trade, export, import, retail, supermarkets, general trading, and e-commerce.
2. Professional License
For service-based businesses such as:
3. Industrial License
For manufacturing, production, packaging, and industrial activities.
4. Tourism License
For travel agencies, tour operators, and hospitality consultants.
5. E-Trader Permits
Ideal for individuals who want to offer professional services and trade on online platforms.
Choosing the right legal structure affects your operations, ownership rights, and documentation.
1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)
Most common form of mainland company. Now allows 100% foreign ownership in many sectors.
2. Sole Establishment
Owned by a single individual offering professional services.
3. Civil Company
Ideal for professionals such as doctors, lawyers, engineers, and consultants.
4. Branch of Foreign Company
Allows international businesses to expand into the UAE without forming a new entity.
5. Representative Office
Used for marketing and brand presence without commercial activity.
At Eden Counsel, we simplify the entire journey for you.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Every license is linked to an activity. Our experts help you pick the correct activity to avoid compliance issues.
Step 2: Pick a Legal Structure
LLC, Sole Establishment, Civil Company, or Branch.
Step 3: Reserve a Trade Name
Trade names must follow DED guidelines and be unique.
Step 4: Get Initial Approval
This is an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from DED.
Step 5: Prepare MOA or LSA
These documents outline ownership and operational rules.
Step 6: Choose Office Space
Mainland requires:
Step 7: Document Submission
Submit all paperwork, approvals, and tenancy contracts to DED.
Step 8: Receive Your Trade License
Once issued, you can legally operate in the UAE.
Step 9: Apply for Visas
Investor visas, employee visas, and dependent visas.
Step 10: Open a Corporate Bank Account
We assist with complete banking support.
The cost depends on:
Mainland company setup in UAE starts from affordable rates, and Eden Counsel offers complete cost transparency with no hidden fees.
1. Nationwide Business Freedom
Operate across all UAE emirates and regions.
2. Ability to Scale
Open multiple branches and expand your business as you grow.
3. Trusted by Investors
Mainland licenses have the highest reputation and acceptance.
4. Access to Global Markets
Ideal for import, export, logistics, and international operations.
5. No Currency Restrictions
Move money freely for international business.
Mainland licenses are ideal for businesses such as:
We provide end-to-end solutions including:
Our goal is to make your business setup fast, transparent, cost-effective, and legally secure.
Eden Counsel eliminates these obstacles and ensures a smooth company formation process.