JURJURA Business Setup and Consulting Services

What is the Process of Mainland Business Setup in Dubai?

Mainland business setup in Dubai is one of the most profitable opportunities for foreign investors to watch their entrepreneurial ideas turn to reality. It is a preferred destination for investors to register their business and get started with selling in the UAE market.

There are several reasons behind the popularity of companies in the Dubai mainland. Some of these include the freedom to conduct business operations anywhere in Dubai and the UAE. However, you need to follow the standard procedure to get your mainland business set up in Dubai.

What is a Mainland License?

Mainland business setup in Dubai is also known as the onshore process of establishing your business. It gives you the opportunity to run your business from the heart of Dubai.

You get to target and do business with the customers of the UAE and the world seamlessly. To set up your business in the mainland, you need to apply for a license. Since the procedure is simple and can be quickly done online, you need not worry.

The commercial activities in the mainland are governed by the Department of Economic Development (DED), the authority responsible for issuing the license. To ease the process of mainland business setup in Dubai for foreign investors, the government allows a mandatory provision of partnership with a local service agent (LSA).

Your business must have a local service agent who helps you with all the legal formalities associated with an industrial license in the UAE. This is a requirement that cannot be waived. You enjoy complete business & operational ownership of your venture when you work with an LSA. You can come into a contractual agreement with the LSA to offer his/her assistance for company incorporation for a fixed annual fee.

What are the License Types for Mainland Business Setup in Dubai?

Depending upon your niche, there are different mainland business licenses available. The main types of permits for mainland business setup in Dubai are-

1. Professional License

Professional licenses constitute a wide range of service activities. For example, you would need a professional license for offering medical, counseling, etc., services.

2. Commercial License

This type of license primarily encompasses an extensive range of trading activities. For example, if you’re selling physical products online or offline, you need this type of license.

3. Manufacturing or Industrial License

If you plan to set up a manufacturing or industrial business in Dubai mainland, you need to apply for this type of license. 

What are the Legal Structures for Mainland Business Setup in Dubai?

There are different legal structures permitted under which you can set up your mainland business in Dubai. Regardless of your industry or budget, you are free to choose the desired legal framework as per your requirements.

• Sole Establishment

• Limited Liability Company

• Branch

• Representative Office

• Civil Company

• Subsidiary

What are the Benefits of Mainland Business Setup in Dubai?

If you’re planning to set up your business on the mainland, you have a lot of opportunities in your hand. Primarily, there are five core benefits on why you should do mainland business setup in Dubai:

1. Tax Exemption

Mainland business setup in Dubai lets you benefit from a 100 percent corporate tax exemption. Additionally, there is a 100 percent repatriation of capital and profits when you register your trading name in the mainland.

2. Flexibility of Operation

You can operate your company and conduct business activities from any part of the UAE with a mainland business setup in Dubai. The incorporation process of the business is simple and requires only a week for completion.

3. Conduct a Wide Range of Business Activities

With multiple legal frameworks and the flexibility of licenses across business niches, you’re free to set up any business in Dubai. Be it tourism, salon, real estate, or eCommerce, Dubai’s got a welcoming approach for you. In some cases, however, you might need to get special permissions from the UAE government.

4. Bid on Government Projects

One of the most significant advantages of mainland business setup in UAE is the permission to bid for government projects. These are prestigious administrative assignments and you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to work on them if you get a chance.

5. Hassle-free Legal Procedure

You don’t need to wait in queues or constantly check with the concerned department to avail your business license. Mainland business setup in UAE enables hassle-free and quick licensing procedures.

What is the Process of Mainland Business Setup in Dubai?

Following is a step-by-step process to set up a mainland business in Dubai:

1. Choose a Business Activity: 

Decide the type of business activity you want to be pursuing in the Dubai mainland. 

2. Opt for a Company Structure: 

Based upon your business activity and requirements, you select a company structure out of the options available for Mainland business setup in Dubai.

3. Get Your Trading Names Approved: 

Choose a trading name that resonates with your business and target customers. Avoid using any offensive terms. Then submit your company documents for registration.

4. Apply for a Business License: 

Apply for the initial approval of a license for mainland set up in Dubai at the Department of Economic Development.

5. Obtain Approvals: 

If your business activity requires any special approvals, make sure you apply for them. Once your LSA and other relevant documents are finalized, you’ll get your business license approved.

6. Apply for the Visa: 

If you haven’t already, you can now apply for a business visa in Dubai. At this stage, you might be asked to present your documents regarding mainland business setup in UAE.

Expert Consultation with JURJURA Group

At JURJURA group, we understand that setting up a new business comes with its nuances. That’s why we’re here to help you ease the process and establish your dream enterprise in Dubai’s mainland. You can reach out to our expert team for mainland business setup in UAE.