Dubai Mainland License

20% Off

20% Off

One of the world’s fastest-growing commercial centres, offering more than 2,000 approved business activities.

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Dynamic picture of a cyclist riding downhill

Build business with trusted experts. Achieve the real success.

Build your business with trusted experts. Achieve the real success.

/ABOUT BLZ/

/ABOUT BLZ/

/ABOUT BLZ/

/ABOUT BLZ/

For more than a decade, we have supported founders and established companies with licensing, visas, banking, compliance, and long-term growth planning. Your goals shape the way we guide your company.

Loved by small teams, trusted by leading brands

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Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work

Start Your Company Setup in Dubai Mainland

A mainland license in Dubai gives your business full authority to operate across the UAE. Issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED), it removes location limits and opens direct access to local markets, government organizations, and a wide range of commercial opportunities.

The business licence supports wider expansion, as the DED permits a broad selection of approved activities that can be added to your licence whenever your business evolves. Mainland companies can also establish multiple branches across Dubai and other Emirates, allowing them to strengthen their reach and presence throughout the country.

Why Choose Dubai Mainland

Dubai Mainland offers flexible licensing, multi-activity options, and the ability to scale operations while benefiting from a stable regulatory environment.

Key Advantages:

100% Foreign Ownership for most business activities

No Trade Restrictions

Diverse Economic Sectors

No paid-up capital requirement

Simple corporate bank account setup

100% profit and capital repatriation

A woman smiling sitting in the office
A woman smiling sitting in the office
A woman smiling sitting in the office
A woman smiling sitting in the office

License Categories Available

Dubai Mainland company setup offers a broad selection of licence types designed to match the needs of various industries.

These licence options allow businesses to operate with confidence and choose a setup that fully supports their long-term growth in Dubai Mainland.

/HOW IT WORKS/

Step-by-Step Business Setup Process

The process is simplified through online services, enabling businesses to complete most requirements digitally and reduce the need for physical visits.

01

Choose Your Business Activity

Identify your business activity and select the appropriate legal form, such as an LLC, Sole Proprietorship, or Branch Office.

02

Reserve Trade Name

Select a trade name, secure initial DED approval within 2-3 days, and obtain any additional government clearances required for your activity.

03

Prepare Documents & Office

Draft and attest essential documents such as the MoA or LSA agreement, and rent a physical office or warehouse registered with Ejari.

04

Visa & License Processing

Submit your application to the DED, receive your trade license within 3-7 days, and apply for residency visas.

01

Choose Your Business Activity

Identify your business activity and select the appropriate legal form, such as an LLC, Sole Proprietorship, or Branch Office.

02

Reserve Trade Name

Select a trade name, secure initial DED approval within 2-3 days, and obtain any additional government clearances required for your activity.

03

Prepare Documents & Office

Draft and attest essential documents such as the MoA or LSA agreement, and rent a physical office or warehouse registered with Ejari.

04

Visa & License Processing

Submit your application to the DED, receive your trade license within 3-7 days, and apply for residency visas.

01

Choose Your Business Activity

Identify your business activity and select the appropriate legal form, such as an LLC, Sole Proprietorship, or Branch Office.

02

Reserve Trade Name

Select a trade name, secure initial DED approval within 2-3 days, and obtain any additional government clearances required for your activity.

03

Prepare Documents & Office

Draft and attest essential documents such as the MoA or LSA agreement, and rent a physical office or warehouse registered with Ejari.

04

Visa & License Processing

Submit your application to the DED, receive your trade license within 3-7 days, and apply for residency visas.

01

Choose Your Business Activity

Identify your business activity and select the appropriate legal form, such as an LLC, Sole Proprietorship, or Branch Office.

02

Reserve Trade Name

Select a trade name, secure initial DED approval within 2-3 days, and obtain any additional government clearances required for your activity.

03

Prepare Documents & Office

Draft and attest essential documents such as the MoA or LSA agreement, and rent a physical office or warehouse registered with Ejari.

04

Visa & License Processing

Submit your application to the DED, receive your trade license within 3-7 days, and apply for residency visas.

Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work

Documents Required

Individual and corporate shareholders need to provide different sets of documents.

Individual Shareholders

Passport copy

Digital passport-sized photo

UAE residence visa

Emirates ID copy (if applicable)

No Objection Certificate (NOC) if employed in the UAE

Corporate Shareholders

Incorporation Certificate

Certificate of Incumbency or its equivalent

Memorandum of Association (MoA)

Board Resolution with notarized Power of Attorney

Additional documents may be requested depending on business activity and ownership structure.

/ABOUT BLZ FACILITIES/

Office and Facility Options

Mainland companies in Dubai must have a registered office to finalize their business setup, with options available to suit different operational needs and budgets.

01

Co-working Spaces

An affordable option designed to meet the needs of startups, freelancers, and small businesses looking for cost-effective support.

02

Serviced Offices

Fully equipped, ready-to-use private offices, flexible and ideal for small teams or companies needing a professional setup.

03

Private Commercial Offices

Traditional, dedicated office spaces suitable for established companies needing multiple employee visas.

04

Virtual Office

Offered to certain consultancy and trading companies, providing a registered business address without the need for a physical office.

Visa Options and Eligibility

Dubai Mainland companies can apply unlimited number of visas, depending on the office space size and the nature of the business. This provides the flexibility to scale operations and bring in the necessary team to support growth.

Additionally, having access to multiple visas makes it easier for businesses to structure their workforce efficiently, allocate staff across different projects, and attract international talent to strengthen their operations in the UAE.

Why Businesses Prefer Dubai Mainland

Each year, tens of thousands of new businesses register in Dubai, highlighting its role as the UAE’s central business hub for ambitious entrepreneurs. Mainland companies benefit from extensive networking opportunities, access to a large client base, and the ability to operate across diverse economic sectors, including real estate, tourism, technology, and finance.

Dubai’s regulatory environment supports ease of doing business, with laws continually updated to attract foreign investment. Businesses also gain eligibility for government contracts, offering access to lucrative projects in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other key sectors, making the Dubai Mainland an attractive choice for growth-focused businesses.

Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to frequently asked questions about mainland license in Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to frequently asked questions about mainland license in Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to frequently asked questions about mainland license in Dubai.

What are the tax implications for Dubai Mainland companies?
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Mainland companies with profits exceeding AED 375,000 are liable for Corporate Tax in the UAE. Depending on the type of business, additional charges such as VAT at 5% or customs duties may also apply.

How does a Mainland business differ from a Free Zone business?
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A Mainland Company can trade freely across the UAE and own property in mainland areas. In contrast, a Free Zone Company is restricted to its designated free zone, though it benefits from tax incentives and full foreign ownership.

Can I convert a Free Zone company into a Mainland company?
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Yes, under specific conditions, a Free Zone business can be moved to the Mainland. The process depends on your business activity and compliance with Free Zone obligations. It’s advisable to consult a business setup specialist to assess eligibility and guide you through the necessary steps for a smooth transition.

Is 100% foreign ownership possible for all Mainland businesses?
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While most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, some strategic sectors may require a local partner. Always check the approved DED activities list before registering.

Are Mainland companies allowed to bid on government projects?
icon

Yes, only Mainland companies can participate in government tenders and contracts, giving access to large-scale and high-value business opportunities.

What are the tax implications for Dubai Mainland companies?
icon

Mainland companies with profits exceeding AED 375,000 are liable for Corporate Tax in the UAE. Depending on the type of business, additional charges such as VAT at 5% or customs duties may also apply.

How does a Mainland business differ from a Free Zone business?
icon

A Mainland Company can trade freely across the UAE and own property in mainland areas. In contrast, a Free Zone Company is restricted to its designated free zone, though it benefits from tax incentives and full foreign ownership.

Can I convert a Free Zone company into a Mainland company?
icon

Yes, under specific conditions, a Free Zone business can be moved to the Mainland. The process depends on your business activity and compliance with Free Zone obligations. It’s advisable to consult a business setup specialist to assess eligibility and guide you through the necessary steps for a smooth transition.

Is 100% foreign ownership possible for all Mainland businesses?
icon

While most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, some strategic sectors may require a local partner. Always check the approved DED activities list before registering.

Are Mainland companies allowed to bid on government projects?
icon

Yes, only Mainland companies can participate in government tenders and contracts, giving access to large-scale and high-value business opportunities.

What are the tax implications for Dubai Mainland companies?
icon

Mainland companies with profits exceeding AED 375,000 are liable for Corporate Tax in the UAE. Depending on the type of business, additional charges such as VAT at 5% or customs duties may also apply.

How does a Mainland business differ from a Free Zone business?
icon

A Mainland Company can trade freely across the UAE and own property in mainland areas. In contrast, a Free Zone Company is restricted to its designated free zone, though it benefits from tax incentives and full foreign ownership.

Can I convert a Free Zone company into a Mainland company?
icon

Yes, under specific conditions, a Free Zone business can be moved to the Mainland. The process depends on your business activity and compliance with Free Zone obligations. It’s advisable to consult a business setup specialist to assess eligibility and guide you through the necessary steps for a smooth transition.

Is 100% foreign ownership possible for all Mainland businesses?
icon

While most activities now allow 100% foreign ownership, some strategic sectors may require a local partner. Always check the approved DED activities list before registering.

Are Mainland companies allowed to bid on government projects?
icon

Yes, only Mainland companies can participate in government tenders and contracts, giving access to large-scale and high-value business opportunities.

Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work
Two women laughing at work

Other Mainland Option

Here are strong alternatives if you want to compare options before setting up your business.

Abu Dhabi Mainland

Operate across Abu Dhabi and other Emirates

Ideal for trading, services, and industrial activities

Quick licensing with support for startups and established businesses

Get in Touch

Dubai

1402, Level 14 - Boulevard Plaza Tower 1 Downtown Dubai - Dubai

Abu Dhabi

Aldar HQ, Level 3, Al Raha Beach, Abu Dhabi

Simplifying compliance, so you don't have to.

Simplifying compliance, so you don't have to.

We’re your UAE advocates, here to support you every step of the way.

Unparalleled Expertise

Our wealth of experience across diverse industries positions us to anticipate challenges and deliver optimal solutions.

Dedicated Partnership

We are more than consultants; we are your dedicated partners, deeply invested in your triumph.

Proven Track Record

Our legacy of success speaks volumes about our ability to empower businesses to thrive in the UAE.

Client-Centric Approach

Your satisfaction is paramount, and we are committed to exceeding your expectations at every turn.