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Thinking of launching your dream business in the heart of the UAE? Setting up a business in Dubai mainland opens doors to unmatched advantages—access to the local market, strategic global connectivity, and 100% foreign ownership in many sectors. Whether you’re a startup founder or an established investor, Dubai mainland is the go-to location for scalability, visibility, and long-term growth.
Here’s everything you need to know about business setup in Dubai mainland in 2024.
🌍 What Is Dubai Mainland?
Dubai mainland refers to the geographical area governed by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)—formerly known as the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED). Unlike free zones, mainland businesses can trade freely across the UAE without restrictions.
✅ Key Benefits of Setting Up in Dubai Mainland
- Access to the UAE Market: Trade with other emirates and government clients freely
- 100% Foreign Ownership: Now allowed in most business activities
- No Currency Restrictions
- Wider Office Location Choices
- Ability to Apply for Unlimited Visas
- More Flexible Business Activities
📝 Steps to Set Up a Mainland Business in Dubai
1. Choose a Business Activity
Select from thousands of licensed activities listed by the DET—like retail, trading, consulting, e-commerce, and more.
2. Select a Legal Structure
Options include:
- Sole Proprietorship
- Civil Company
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Branch of a Foreign Company
3. Reserve a Trade Name
Your business name must comply with UAE naming conventions—no offensive terms, and no resemblance to other trademarks.
4. Apply for Initial Approval
This green light from DET allows you to proceed with legal and administrative formalities.
5. Draft the MOA (Memorandum of Association)
A mandatory legal document (especially for LLCs) that outlines shareholder roles and business rules.
6. Choose a Business Location
Secure a commercial office space or retail unit and get a tenancy contract (Ejari).
7. Get External Approvals (if required)
Certain activities—like food services or legal consultancy—require approvals from authorities like Dubai Municipality, KHDA, or MOHRE.
8. Submit Documents & Pay Fees
Submit your full application to DET, attach all documents, and pay the final license issuance fee.
9. Receive Your Trade License
Once approved, you will receive your Dubai mainland trade license—officially authorizing your business.
💵 Cost of Setting Up a Mainland Business in Dubai (2024)
| Item | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade Name Reservation | 600 – 1,000 |
| Initial Approval | 150 – 500 |
| MOA Drafting & Notarization | 1,500 – 2,000 |
| Ejari (Office Lease) | 12,000 – 50,000+ |
| License Issuance (depends on activity) | 10,000 – 20,000+ |
| Visa (per person) | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Prices vary based on business activity, office size, and external approvals.
🏢 Office Space Requirement for Mainland Companies
You must lease a physical office space in Dubai mainland. The size depends on the number of visas required.
- 1 Visa = Minimum 100 sq.ft.
- Options range from flexi-desks to full-scale retail or commercial spaces
🧾 Types of Licenses Available
- Commercial License – For trading businesses
- Professional License – For service-based activities (e.g., consultancy)
- Industrial License – For manufacturing and industrial operations
- Tourism License – For travel and hospitality businesses
🧑💼 Visa Eligibility for Entrepreneurs and Employees
Once your license is issued, you can apply for:
- Investor/Partner Visa
- Employee Visa
- Dependent Visa for family members
Visa quota depends on office size and labor approval.
🔍 Mainland vs Free Zone Business Setup
| Feature | Mainland | Free Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Local Market Access | Full | Limited (needs distributor) |
| Foreign Ownership | 100% in most activities | 100% |
| Office Requirement | Mandatory | Optional (in some zones) |
| Government Contracts | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Business Scope | Unlimited across UAE | Restricted to zone or export |
🛠️ Business Setup Consultants in Dubai
Consider hiring professional PRO services or business setup consultants to simplify the process. Reputable firms like:
- Virtuzone
- Commitbiz
- Shuraa Business Setup
- Kiltons
They assist with paperwork, office leasing, visa approvals, and external authority coordination.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing the wrong business activity
- Not understanding visa quota limitations
- Delays in Ejari registration
- Using unlicensed agents
- Ignoring renewal and compliance deadlines
📍 Ideal Locations for Mainland Business
- Business Bay – Perfect for consultancies and real estate
- Deira & Bur Dubai – Retail and traditional commerce
- Al Quoz – Warehouses and industrial operations
- Sheikh Zayed Road – Premium office space for corporate firms
✅ Final Thoughts
Setting up a business in Dubai mainland offers the best of both worlds—local and global reach, credibility, and operational freedom. With favorable regulations, 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, and government-backed support for startups, Dubai continues to be the entrepreneurial hub of the Middle East.
