Setting up a business in Dubai’s mainland jurisdiction gives entrepreneurs unrestricted access to the entire UAE market — including the ability to trade directly with customers across all emirates, win government contracts, and establish a visible local presence. Unlike free zone or offshore entities, mainland companies can operate without geographic or operational limitations, making them the preferred structure for service-based businesses, retailers, contractors, and consultancies that want to scale within the region.
Mainland company formation is one of the most popular options for business setup in Dubai, particularly for those who need physical office space, wish to hire a local workforce, or plan to target both B2C and B2B markets in the UAE. However, the process involves specific licensing, documentation, and — in many cases — a local sponsorship arrangement.
At Profound UAE, we simplify the entire process and ensure that your company formation is fully compliant, transparent, and future-proof.
What Is a Mainland Company in Dubai?
A mainland company refers to any business registered under the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) — formerly known as DED. These companies are licensed to operate anywhere in the UAE and are not restricted to specific free zones.
This means you can open offices or branches across different emirates, participate in large-scale projects, serve local clients directly, and even bid for high-value government tenders.
Key Features of Mainland Business Setup
Dubai mainland companies offer flexibility and growth potential, especially for entrepreneurs who want to build a strong on-ground presence. Some of the key advantages include:
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Ability to trade and operate across the UAE without restrictions
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Eligibility to apply for government and semi-government contracts
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Access to a wide range of commercial office spaces and showrooms
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Flexibility to open multiple branches or expand to other emirates
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Unlimited visa quota (subject to office space size)
For businesses planning a long-term footprint in the UAE, a mainland company setup offers unmatched reach and flexibility compared to free zone or offshore models.
Do You Need a Local Sponsor?
One of the most common questions during business setup in Dubai mainland is about local sponsorship. Previously, UAE law required foreign investors to have a UAE national (individual or corporate) hold 51% of the company shares for most commercial licenses.
However, since 2021, many professional and commercial activities now allow 100% foreign ownership — depending on your business activity. Yet, certain sectors still require a local service agent or Emirati sponsor.
Profound UAE offers transparent sponsorship arrangements through trusted and compliant local partners. Whether you're setting up with full ownership or require a local agent, we ensure all shareholder agreements, rights, and operational control are clearly defined and legally protected.
Mainland Company Setup Process with Profound UAE
At Profound UAE, we handle the full company formation process from start to finish. Here's how we make it simple:
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Business Activity Selection: We help you choose the right activity and structure based on your operational goals.
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Trade Name Reservation: Your company name is reserved and cleared through DET.
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Initial Approval: Government gives preliminary approval to proceed with licensing.
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Local Sponsorship or LSA Setup: If required, we match you with a trustworthy Emirati sponsor or corporate nominee.
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Office Space Finalization: We help you secure the right office or retail space that meets licensing criteria.
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Document Signing and Submission: We prepare and submit the MOA, tenancy contract (Ejari), passport copies, and other documents.
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Trade License Issuance: Once approved, your license is issued, and your business is legally registered.
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Visa and Banking Assistance: We assist with investor visas, employee permits, and opening a UAE corporate bank account.
With Profound UAE, every step is guided by experts — ensuring no errors, missed approvals, or legal surprises.
Is Mainland Setup Right for You?
Mainland company formation is ideal if you:
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Want to trade freely across Dubai and other emirates
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Plan to open a physical office or retail location
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Need to hire full-time employees and apply for multiple visas
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Want to bid on government tenders or large projects
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Intend to scale your operations regionally
If your business involves on-site services, logistics, contracting, event management, legal consulting, or retail, a mainland structure is typically the best choice.
Why Set Up Your Mainland Company with Profound UAE?
With over 14 years of experience and 40,000+ companies launched, Profound UAE is among the most trusted partners for business setup in Dubai. Our expertise in licensing, compliance, and local sponsorships ensures a faster, safer, and more cost-effective formation — with full support at every stage.
We go beyond paperwork by offering strategic advice, vetted local sponsors, real estate connections for office leasing, PRO services, and ongoing support for renewals, VAT, and visa processing.
Ready to Launch Your Dubai Mainland Company?
Profound UAE takes care of everything — from choosing the right structure and securing your trade license to arranging local sponsorship, office space, and government approvals. We make your business setup in Dubai fast, compliant, and future-ready.
📞 Book your free consultation today
Start with confidence, grow with expert support — only with Profound UAE.
