Setting up a business in Dubai Mainland is one of the most preferred choices for global entrepreneurs, investors, and startups who want full access to the UAE market. Dubai Mainland is regulated by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), which authorizes businesses to operate across the UAE without restrictions. Whether you plan to start a trading business, consultancy firm, manufacturing unit, contracting company, or service-based agency, Dubai Mainland offers unmatched freedom, flexibility, and expansion opportunities.
Dubai Mainland is known for its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, stable economic policies, favorable tax environment, and seamless business ecosystem. With reforms such as 100% foreign ownership, simplified licensing, and investor-friendly regulations, Dubai Mainland has become one of the most attractive destinations for global business formation.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Dubai Mainland is the unlimited market accessibility. Mainland companies can trade anywhere in the UAE, partner with local distributors, and work with government bodies—something freezone companies cannot fully access. This makes mainland setup ideal for businesses aiming at large-scale operations.
Another key benefit is the ability to obtain unlimited visas based on office size. Whether you want to employ a small team or build a large workforce, Dubai Mainland provides easy visa eligibility for investors, partners, and employees.
Dubai Mainland businesses enjoy the freedom to take on government projects, which can significantly boost revenue and business growth. This advantage alone attracts multinational companies, construction firms, interior design companies, IT services, and contracting establishments.
Additionally, Dubai Mainland businesses can choose from thousands of approved activities under commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism categories. This makes it easier for entrepreneurs to find a license that perfectly aligns with their industry.
Earlier, foreign investors needed a local sponsor or service agent to start a mainland business. But now, with UAE’s new reforms, most business activities allow 100% foreign ownership. This means you can have complete control of your business, profits, and operations without the need for a local partner.
This major policy shift has made Dubai Mainland even more popular among entrepreneurs from India, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Asia who want total independence and long-term business security.
Dubai Mainland offers several license categories based on your business activity:
1. Commercial License
For businesses involved in trading, e-commerce, retail, wholesale, and general trading.
2. Professional License
For service-based businesses such as consultancy, IT services, marketing, education, engineering, beauty salons, and medical services.
3. Industrial License
For manufacturing, packaging, processing, industrial production, and heavy equipment operations.
4. Tourism License
For travel agencies, inbound/outbound tour operators, and tourism-related businesses.
1. Choose the Right Business Activity
The first step is selecting your business activity from the DED list. This determines your license type and legal requirements.
2. Reserve a Trade Name
Choose a unique trade name following DED naming rules. It must not include offensive words or names of global organizations.
3. Apply for Initial Approval
DED grants initial approval allowing you to proceed with the remaining steps.
4. Prepare MOA or LSA Agreement
Depending on the license type, you may need a Memorandum of Association (MOA) or Local Service Agent (LSA) agreement.
5. Choose Office Space
A physical office or co-working space with Ejari is mandatory for mainland company formation.
6. Submit Final Documentation
Once all documents are ready, submit them to DED for final approval.
7. Collect Your Trade License
After approval, you will receive your Dubai Mainland Trade License, and your business can start operating immediately.
8. Apply for Visas and Bank Account
After obtaining your license, you can apply for investor visas, partner visas, employee visas, and open a corporate bank account.
The Dubai mainland license cost typically starts from AED 12,500 to AED 20,000, but it varies depending on:
The exact cost will depend on your business model and compliance needs.
EDEN COUNSEL provides complete, end-to-end business setup assistance for Dubai Mainland. From selecting the right activity to getting approvals, handling documentation, securing office space, processing visas, and helping with banking—we take care of everything.
We simplify the entire process so you can focus on your business goals.