Mainland Business Regulations in UAE 2025 | Complete Guide to Company Formation

In 2025, the mainland business setup in UAE is the best to start your journey. With recent legislation, foreign investors now get 100% ownership in most industries. So, you don’t require a local partner for the majority of business types.

Additionally, mainland companies can trade across the UAE and even transact with government departments. Consequently, your company has greater opportunities to expand and thrive.

On top of that, you can establish multiple branches across the nation and recruit employees easily by obtaining unlimited visas, depending on your office space. Lastly, there are straightforward rules and quicker procedures for establishing a company now, and this is more convenient than ever before. It is the best time to consider a mainland business setup in UAE and enjoy these changes.

About Mainland Company Setup in Dubai

Mainland Company formation in Dubai is a favourite for most entrepreneurs. The company is registered with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). It gives them the liberty to conduct business in any area of the UAE and even internationally. Additionally, they do not have to restrict themselves to a single location or zone. The mainland license in Dubai is highly flexible and accommodates over 3,000 various business activities. Moreover, you can sell directly to customers in the UAE without the need for a local agent. 

You are also able to apply for as many visas as desired, depending on the size of your office space. In addition, you are free to open subsidiaries in other locations across the UAE. Therefore, this arrangement is perfect for those who wish to develop quickly, handle government ministries, and target both local and international markets.

Types of Mainland Business Licenses in UAE

Mainland business entities in the UAE have various types of licenses to select from. They are commercial, professional, industrial, and tourism licenses. Your business activity will determine the appropriate one. All of them need a DED business license.

1. Commercial License

For selling and trading merchandise. Further, it includes most regular business activities in different industries.

2. Professional License

It’s for service professionals such as consultants or designers. Further, it permits 100% foreign ownership in most instances.

3. Industrial License

Apply it to producing, processing, or packing products. Further, it’s needed for any industrial or factory operations.

4. Tourism License

This suits travel agencies and tour operators. Additionally, it enables companies to provide tourism and travel-related services legally.

The right license ensures that you comply with the legal requirements for mainland company operations.

Requirements for Mainland UAE Company Formation

To initiate your company registration in mainland UAE, you need to fulfil the following requirements:

1. Select business activity

Begin by choosing an activity listed by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). It determines your license type.

2. Determine your company structure

Choose a legal form like an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation. Additionally, this impacts ownership, liability, and licensing.

3. Reserve a trade name

Select a distinctive business name that complies with DED regulations. Also, don’t choose names that are offensive or already registered.

4. Choose a physical office address

You need to have an Ejari-registered rented office space. Additionally, it’s required to obtain your trade license and visas.

5. Prepare the necessary documents

Gather passport copies, visa pages, tenancy agreement, and Memorandum of Association (MOA). Prepare a business plan as well, if necessary.

6. Regulatory compliance for UAE mainland companies

Certain industries, like healthcare and education, involve special approvals. For instance, you can have approvals from DHA or KHDA based on your activity.

UAE Mainland Business Laws and Regulations

In 2025, the UAE relaxed its business regulations for foreign investors. Nowadays, the majority of business activities permit 100% foreign ownership without the requirement of a local partner. Some special industries, such as oil and gas, however, still need a local sponsor in mainland setup.

If you wish to establish a mainland company, you are required to adhere to regulations created by the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). These regulations are:

• Selecting the appropriate business activity
• Selecting an authorized trade name
• Renting a suitable office that complies with space regulations
• Obtaining the right business license

And also, it’s always recommended to be aware of legal changes. It avoids fines, delays, or licensing problems. Always inquire with DED or a business setup specialist for the latest information.

How to Set Up a Mainland Company in UAE

Setting up a mainland company in the UAE is now easier than before. In 2025, new rules will support smoother processes and faster approvals. Moreover, foreign investors can enjoy full ownership in most sectors.

Step 1. Choose your business activity

Start by selecting the exact activity your company will do. Also, make sure it’s listed in the DED-approved activities list for licensing.

Step 2. Select a legal form

Select a business form such as an LLC or sole proprietorship. Moreover, this selection influences ownership regulations and how your firm operates.

Step 3. Register a distinctive trade name with DED

Select a name that suits your image and is permissible. Additionally, make sure it’s not already taken or objectionable.

Step 4. Obtain preliminary DED approval

Provide your business plan and documents. Then, await the green light from DED to proceed with the setup.

Step 5. Rent office space and register Ejari

Lease an office anywhere in the UAE. Next, register the tenancy contract using the Ejari system.

Step 6. Prepare and notarise the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

Draft your company’s rules and partner information. Then, notarise it through a UAE legal office.

Step 7. Submit documents to DED and pay the fee

Collect all documents and submit them. Moreover, pay the required government fees to continue.

Step 8. Receive your trade license UAE mainland

Once approved, you’ll get your official license. Finally, your business is ready to operate in the UAE.

This process is smoother when guided by business setup experts in Dubai.

Steps for Mainland Company Registration

Registering a mainland company in the UAE involves a few essential steps. In addition, you have to abide by legal regulations and present proper documents. Here is how to do it the right way:

Step 1. Provide passport copies, visa pages, and NOC

Gather and submit these. Also, attach any essential no-objection certificates depending on your visa type.

Step 2. Choose a suitable office location

Pick an office space that fits your needs. In addition, it must meet DED guidelines and be registered under Ejari.

Step 3. Pay registration and license fees

Submit all required payments to DED. Furthermore, make sure to keep receipts for accounting and visa processing.

Step 4. Open a business bank account

Select a bank that suits your business. Then, provide your license and documents to open the account.

Step 5. Apply for residence visas for yourself

After obtaining a license, apply for employee visas. Lastly, ensure the office space accommodates your visa cap.

Every step has to be according to the business ownership rules in UAE and DED guidelines.

Benefits of Mainland Company Formation in Dubai

Establishing a mainland company in Dubai presents numerous robust benefits. New laws in 2025 make it even stronger. Additionally, businesses are given more autonomy and greater growth prospects.

1. 100% ownership rules for mainland businesses in UAE 2025

Foreign investors can own 100% of their businesses. Also, the same goes for the majority of sectors under the new UAE regulations.

2. Complete access to local and global markets

Mainland companies can conduct business within the UAE and internationally. Furthermore, no local distributor is required for local sales.

3. Can apply for unlimited visas according to office size

You can apply for numerous visas. Additionally, the amount permitted is based on the square footage of your office.

4. Eligible to bid on lucrative government contracts

Mainland businesses can collaborate with government departments. Also, they can bid on public tenders and large infrastructure schemes.

5. Easy expansion through opening branches in any Emirate

You may expand throughout the UAE without any hindrances. Additionally, no additional trade zone approvals are required for new branches.

It makes mainland business setup in UAE an excellent option for small businesses and big companies.

Costs Involved in Mainland UAE Company Formation

The mainland company setup cost in Dubai is not fixed. It depends on the business activity, office lease, and government charges. On average:

1. Trade license: AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 (approx.)

You will have to pay this to DED. Moreover, the amount can be different based on your business classification and license type.

2. Office space: AED 15,000 to AED 50,000 (approx.) per annum

Rent varies based on location and area. Besides, your visa limit is dependent on the place you take on lease.

3. MOA notarization: AED 2,500 (approx.)

This legal document must be signed and stamped. Furthermore, it outlines the company’s ownership and structure.

4. Bank account setup and visa costs extra

You will need to pay for account setup and employee visas. Therefore, it’s best to plan your full budget early.

Costs may be higher for activities needing special approvals. Business setup consultants in Dubai can give accurate cost breakdowns.

Challenges of Mainland UAE Company Formation

Establishing a mainland firm in the UAE is simpler in 2025. Nevertheless, some challenges remain that have to be handled with care by companies in the process.

1. Dealing with new UAE mainland business

Legislation continues to evolve to facilitate business development. Yet, keeping track of each legal development takes time and sometimes becomes confusing for new investors.

2. Selecting the most appropriate legal structure

You need to choose a structure that is suitable for your business. Furthermore, an inappropriate selection can influence ownership rights, taxation, and the way your company operates.

3. Knowing about regulatory compliance

Companies need to abide by DED regulations. Moreover, non-compliance can result in delays, fines, or rejection of your license request.

4. Managing trade name prohibitions

Your company name will have to abide by strict regulations. Hence, names containing explicit language or already existing ones won’t be sanctioned by the DED.

5. Satisfying office space requirements

You require an office registered with Ejari. Also, the size of the space is important because it impacts the number of visas you can seek.

Collaborating with business setup in Dubai minimizes these challenges.

Differences Between Mainland and Free Zone Companies

Let’s discuss mainland and free zone company differences:

Mainland business setup in UAE is the best choice if you wish to grow locally and internationally.

Get Help from Us

Establishing a business in the UAE may seem daunting, particularly if you are new to the experience. That is why we are here to assist you. With us being the reputable business setup experts in Dubai, we have facilitated hundreds of clients setting up their businesses smoothly. 

Furthermore, from Dubai company formation to visa processing, we take care of everything. Additionally, we assist with visa applications, office space, and business bank account opening. We have legal consultants, tax consultants, and seasoned business setup consultants in Dubai who know each process inside out. 

In addition, we remain current with new laws to ensure your mainland license in Dubai satisfies all legal regulations. So, rather than going through the hassle yourself, let us facilitate the process as rapidly, easily, and stress-free as possible for you.

FAQs

Q1: Is it possible to own 100% of my business in the mainland UAE in 2025?

Yes! Full foreign ownership is permitted in most sectors now. Some industries, however, still require a local sponsor in mainland setup.

Q2: What are the documents required for a mainland UAE company registration?

You will require passport copies, visa pages, a lease agreement, a business plan, and an MOA. Some sectors might request additional approvals or certificates, too.

Q3: How much is a mainland business setup in UAE?

Fees differ according to your configuration. Typically, you would need to set aside AED 20,000 to AED 50,000, depending on the license and office space.

Q4: What is the difference between mainland and free zone business setups?

Free zones facilitate international trade. On the other hand, mainland businesses can trade locally in the UAE without a local agent or distributor.

Q5: Who can assist me in the UAE mainland company formation?

Our expert team is here to support you. Moreover, our business setup consultants in Dubai will guide you through every step of the process.

Conclusion

Starting a mainland business setup in UAE in 2025 is a smart move for any entrepreneur. The rules are simpler now, and many sectors allow full foreign ownership. You can choose from different business types, pick your location, and trade freely across the UAE. Additionally, you can obtain as many visas as you require and even obtain government contracts. To top it all, the UAE offers substantial backing, expedited approvals, and access to local and international markets.

Just ensure you follow the guidelines closely and keep yourself abreast of the UAE business regulations 2025. And lastly, if you desire a hassle-free and simple setup, let our reliable business setup consultants in Dubai assist you. We will help you from inception to success.